Pharmacies in New York City for English speakers

What to Know

New York has pharmacies on practically every block in Manhattan. CVS, Walgreens, and Duane Reade (owned by Walgreens) are the main chains. They're open long hours and many locations in Midtown and Times Square are 24 hours. A store that is open 24 hours can still close its pharmacy counter at night. Finding a pharmacy is never the problem in NYC. The challenge for international travelers is that the US prescription system is strict and medications are expensive without insurance.

Cost

Over-the-counter products like children's Tylenol (acetaminophen, the US name for paracetamol), Motrin (ibuprofen), Benadryl (an antihistamine), and Pedialyte (a rehydration drink) are readily available and cost more than in Europe. Prescription medications are where it gets complicated. Without US insurance, even a basic antibiotic can be expensive, and the urgent care clinic visit to get the prescription costs several times more on its own. GoodRx discount codes help reduce prescription costs and the pharmacist can look up prices for you.

Practical tips

For over-the-counter stuff, just walk into any CVS or Walgreens. They all have a solid children's medicine section. If you need a prescription, CityMD urgent care clinics are scattered throughout Manhattan and can see you without an appointment. They'll write a prescription that you can fill at any pharmacy. For late-night needs, the Duane Reade at 4 Columbus Circle is open 24 hours. Its pharmacy counter keeps shorter hours, so check them in the Walgreens app before you go. If you have travel insurance, save every receipt as US medical costs are exactly the kind of thing your policy is designed to cover.

Language

English is the default, obviously. In neighborhoods like Washington Heights, Flushing, or Brighton Beach, you'll find pharmacists who also speak Spanish, Mandarin, or Russian respectively. Most pharmacists are helpful and willing to explain options if you're unfamiliar with the US system.

With kids

Every CVS and Walgreens carries a full range of children's medications: Tylenol (acetaminophen), Motrin (ibuprofen), Benadryl and children's cough syrup. Diapers, formula, baby food, and teething gel are all standard stock. No prescription needed for most children's basics.

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