parafarmacia

Parafarmacia is a retail format focused on health-related consumer products that typically do not require a prescription. It can appear as a standalone store or as a department within a traditional pharmacy. The term combines para- (alongside) with farmacia (pharmacy), reflecting its role alongside prescription medications.

The product range in parafarmacias commonly includes vitamins and dietary supplements, cosmetics and skincare, personal hygiene items, baby care products, pregnancy and fertility aids, medical devices and home health care products (such as thermometers and blood pressure monitors), first-aid supplies, and specialized foods for health conditions. Some markets also stock over-the-counter medicines that do not require a prescription, but the sale of prescription medicines is generally restricted to pharmacies.

Regulation and operation vary by country. In many places, parafarmacias are subject to consumer health product regulations and labeling standards similar to pharmacies, while not typically dispensing prescription medicines. The level of professional pharmaceutical supervision and the scope of allowed products can differ; some systems emphasize pharmacist involvement, while others rely on trained staff to provide product information and guidance. In Spain, parafarmacias can operate as separate establishments or as sections within pharmacies, emphasizing non-prescription items.

Market role and trends: Parafarmacias address consumer demand for convenient access to health, wellness, and personal care products at competitive prices. The sector has increasingly integrated online sales and home delivery, complementing brick-and-mortar networks and offering consumer loyalty programs and broad product catalogs.