Starting on June 18th, pharmacists in France will be able to dispense antibiotics without a doctor's prescription in certain cases.
This will be allowed initially for two common infections - cystitis and tonsillitis/strep throat (angines in French), which can both be confirmed by the pharmacist.
If you suspect you have either of these infections, you can go to the pharmacy to get a test, known as a Test Rapide d'Orientation Diagnostique or TROD.
If the test is positive, the pharmacist will be able to prescribe antibiotics without you having to visit a doctor.
The change was initially discussed in September, when then-prime minister Elisabeth Borne announced an expansion in the role of pharmacists in France.
For all other types of conditions, a prescription from a doctor will still be required.
The move comes after a relaxation on the rules around vaccines allowing pharmacists to give eight common vaccines without a doctor's prescription - in addition to the Covid and seasonal flu vaccines which can already be accessed at a pharmacy without prescription.
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Pharmacists in France receive a minimum of six years of training and can offer medical advice for a range of conditions, as well as dispensing medication. Pharmacies are legally required to have at least one qualified pharmacist on the premises at all times.
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