What are Prescription and Pharmacy-only Medicines? How can I tell the difference?

In Singapore, medicines are classified into different categories based on how they can be sold and who can supply them. The two most commonly encountered are Prescription-Only Medicines (POMs) and Pharmacy-Only Medicines (P).

 

 

🩺 Prescription-Only Medicines (POMs)

  • These require a valid prescription from a registered doctor in Singapore.

  • They are usually used for treating more serious or chronic conditions and may require professional monitoring.

  • Examples include:

    • Antibiotics

    • Blood pressure or diabetes medications

    • Hormonal treatments

    • Psychiatric medications


✅ How to get them:
You must consult a doctor first. The medicine can only be dispensed by a licensed pharmacy after verifying your prescription.

 

 

🛒 Pharmacy-Only Medicines (P)

  • These do not require a doctor’s prescription, but must be sold by a pharmacist at a licensed pharmacy.

  • These medications are generally safe for short-term use but may need some professional guidance to ensure safe and proper use.

  • Examples include:

    • Certain antihistamines

    • Cough syrups with codeine

    • Emergency contraception pills

    • Mild anti-nausea tablets


✅ How to get them:
You can speak with one of our pharmacists, who will ask a few screening questions before dispensing the medicine.

 

 

❓How Can I Tell Which is Which?

On Glovida, we clearly label medicines as either:

  • [Prescription-Only Medicine]
    You’ll be asked to upload or obtain a valid prescription before checkout.

  • [Pharmacist Review Required]
    Our pharmacist will contact you to review your order before we can dispense it.


If you’re unsure, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp or live chat, and our pharmacist team will be happy to help you!