Medicine & Pharmacy Prices in Zambia 2026
Updated March 2026 · 18 medications priced
Compare prices for common medications in Zambia — painkillers, antibiotics, antimalarials, chronic medication, and vitamins. Major pharmacy chains compared.
Common Medication Prices
| Medication | Category | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Paracetamol (20 tablets) Panadol, generic brands | Pain & Fever | ZMK 15 – 30 |
| Ibuprofen (20 tablets) Brufen, generic | Pain & Fever | ZMK 20 – 45 |
| Diclofenac (10 tablets) Voltaren, anti-inflammatory | Pain & Fever | ZMK 25 – 50 |
| Amoxicillin Course (21 caps) Most common antibiotic | Antibiotics | ZMK 35 – 80 |
| Metronidazole (20 tablets) Flagyl, bacterial infections | Antibiotics | ZMK 25 – 60 |
| Ciprofloxacin (10 tablets) Broad-spectrum antibiotic | Antibiotics | ZMK 40 – 90 |
| Coartem (Artemether/Lumefantrine) First-line malaria treatment | Antimalarials | ZMK 40 – 100 |
| Doxycycline (30 tablets) Malaria prevention (prophylaxis) | Antimalarials | ZMK 50 – 120 |
| Metformin (30 tablets) Diabetes management | Chronic | ZMK 30 – 70 |
| Amlodipine (30 tablets) Blood pressure medication | Chronic | ZMK 40 – 90 |
| Atorvastatin (30 tablets) Cholesterol lowering | Chronic | ZMK 50 – 120 |
| Cetirizine (10 tablets) Antihistamine, allergy relief | Allergy | ZMK 15 – 35 |
| Loratadine (10 tablets) Non-drowsy antihistamine | Allergy | ZMK 20 – 40 |
| Multivitamins (30 tablets) Centrum, generic | Vitamins | ZMK 30 – 80 |
| Vitamin C (20 tablets) Immune support | Vitamins | ZMK 15 – 40 |
| Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) Per sachet, diarrhoea treatment | Essentials | ZMK 5 – 15 |
| Cough Syrup (100ml) Benylin, generic brands | Essentials | ZMK 30 – 80 |
| Antacid Tablets (20) Tums, Gaviscon, generic | Essentials | ZMK 20 – 50 |
Pharmacy Chains in Zambia
| Pharmacy | Branches | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Link Pharmacy Largest chain, competitive prices, online ordering | 50+ | Nationwide |
| Health Mart Pharmacy Reliable stock, prescription services | 15+ | Lusaka, Copperbelt |
| CFB Pharmacy Attached to CFB Hospital, specialist medicines | 5+ | Lusaka |
| Alpha Pharmacy Affordable generics, good range | 10+ | Lusaka |
| Medimall Pharmacy Premium pharmacy, imported brands | 3+ | Lusaka |
| Government Hospital Pharmacies Cheapest, but stock may be limited | 100+ | Nationwide |
Pharmacy & Medication Guide
Zambia's pharmaceutical sector is regulated by the Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA). Link Pharmacy is the largest pharmacy chain with 50+ branches nationwide, offering both branded and generic medications.
Generic vs Branded Medications
Generic medications are 50–80% cheaper than branded equivalents and contain the same active ingredients. For example, generic paracetamol costs ZMK 10–15 while branded Panadol costs ZMK 25–30. Always ask your pharmacist about generic alternatives to save money without compromising effectiveness.
Essential Medicines
The Zambia Essential Medicines List covers medications that should be available at all health facilities. Malaria treatment is free at government facilities. ARVs (HIV/AIDS treatment) are provided free through government programs. Vaccines for children are free through the Expanded Programme on Immunization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the cheapest pharmacy in Zambia?
Government hospital pharmacies offer the cheapest medications, often at subsidized prices or free for certain conditions. Among private pharmacies, Link Pharmacy and Alpha Pharmacy are generally the most affordable. Generic medications are significantly cheaper than branded versions — always ask your pharmacist for generic alternatives. Prices vary 20-50% between pharmacies, so shopping around pays off.
Can I buy antibiotics without prescription in Zambia?
Technically, antibiotics require a prescription in Zambia under the Pharmacy and Poisons Act. In practice, many pharmacies sell common antibiotics (amoxicillin, metronidazole) without prescription. However, this is not recommended — improper use contributes to antibiotic resistance. For serious infections, always consult a doctor first and get a proper prescription.
How much does malaria treatment cost in Zambia?
First-line malaria treatment (Coartem/Artemether-Lumefantrine) costs ZMK 40–100 at private pharmacies. Government health centers provide free malaria testing and treatment. Malaria prophylaxis (Doxycycline) costs ZMK 50–120 for a 30-day supply. Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil) is more expensive at ZMK 200–400 for a 14-day course.
Are medications expensive in Zambia compared to other countries?
Zambia generally has affordable medication prices compared to Western countries, but more expensive than India or nearby countries. Generic medications are widely available and cost 50-80% less than branded versions. Essential medicines are subsidized by the government. Import duties on pharmaceuticals contribute to costs. Private pharmacies in shopping malls tend to be the most expensive.
Does health insurance cover pharmacy costs in Zambia?
NHIMA covers medications prescribed at accredited health facilities. Private health insurance plans vary — most cover prescribed medications but may have limits or require using specific pharmacy networks. Out-of-pocket pharmacy spending remains high in Zambia. Check your policy for medication coverage details, co-payments, and annual limits.