Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about medication prices, generics, and comparing pharmacy prices in Switzerland.
- Why do medication prices vary so much in Switzerland?
- In Switzerland, prices for non-prescription medications (categories D and E) are not regulated — each pharmacy sets its own prices. The same product can cost up to CHF 50 more depending on the pharmacy. Mediano compares prices across 750+ pharmacies throughout Switzerland so you can instantly find the cheapest option.
- Which medications can I buy without a prescription?
- In Switzerland, there are two categories of non-prescription medications: Category D (dispensed with pharmacist advice) and Category E (freely available, also in drugstores). Mediano covers over 2,000 non-prescription products from more than 1,700 brands.
- How up-to-date are the prices on Mediano?
- Prices are collected daily from pharmacy websites through automated systems. These are real retail prices — not manufacturer list prices or estimates. We currently compare prices from 750+ pharmacies across Switzerland.
- What is a generic and can I save money with one?
- A generic contains the same active ingredient as the original product but is typically cheaper. Mediano automatically shows you cheaper alternatives with the same active ingredient, so you can save when making a purchase.
- Can I order medications through Mediano?
- Mediano is purely a price comparison service — we don't sell medications. When you want to buy a product, we redirect you directly to the pharmacy's website. We compare both online pharmacies and physical locations across Switzerland.
- Is Mediano free to use?
- Yes, Mediano is completely free and independent. We charge no fees and receive no commissions from pharmacies. Our goal is to create price transparency for all consumers in Switzerland.
- How do I find the cheapest pharmacy near me?
- Simply search for the medication you need on Mediano. The results automatically show you the lowest prices across all available pharmacies. On the product page, you can sort pharmacies by distance to find the nearest affordable option.
- What is the difference between Category D and Category E?
- Category D medications can only be dispensed in pharmacies with professional advice — for example, certain painkillers or cold remedies. Category E products are freely available and can also be purchased in drugstores and sometimes retail stores, such as vitamins or care products.
- How much can I save with generics?
- Savings vary by product but typically range between 20% and 60% compared to the original brand. Mediano automatically shows you cheaper generics with the same active ingredient and dosage for every product — so you can instantly see how much you could save.
- Are online pharmacies cheaper than physical pharmacies in Switzerland?
- Often yes — online pharmacies generally have lower operating costs and can offer better prices. However, there are significant differences between individual providers. Mediano compares both online and physical pharmacies so you can find the best price regardless of channel.
- Which pharmacy chains does Mediano compare?
- Mediano compares prices from over 750 pharmacies in Switzerland, including major chains like Amavita, Sun Store, Coop Vitality, Zur Rose, BENU, and many independent pharmacies. We continuously expand our network to cover as many pharmacies as possible.