Tel Aviv Doctor — Prescriptions and prescription refills for tourists and expats in Israel

Source: https://telaviv-doctor.com/prescription-refill-israel · 2026

Key Rule: Foreign Prescriptions Are Invalid in Israel

Pharmacies in Israel can only dispense prescription medications prescribed by an Israeli doctor. All foreign prescriptions are invalid in Israel, even if they include a doctor’s stamp or registration number. You must obtain a new prescription from an Israeli-licensed doctor before any pharmacy will dispense your medication.

Over-the-Counter Differences

• Some medications sold over the counter in other countries require a prescription in Israel.
• Conversely, some medications that require a prescription abroad may be purchased over the counter in Israel.
• Note: Some over-the-counter medications are not on display in the main storefront but are available at the pharmacy counter — always ask if you cannot find what you are looking for.

How to Get a Prescription or Refill in Israel

To obtain medication in Israel (whether a new prescription or a refill), you must book an appointment or consultation with a doctor licensed in Israel. Options include:

• Tel Aviv Doctor – a private English-speaking clinic that provides a fast, non-bureaucratic service for tourists and expats. Doctors write prescriptions in English accepted at all private pharmacies and Superpharm branches.

  • Contact: WhatsApp, Phone (+972-54-941-4243), or Email
  • Commonly prescribed medications include: painkillers, antidepressants, birth control pills, antibiotics.

• Kupat Holim (Health Fund) doctors – if you are registered with one of the four health funds (Clalit, Maccabi, Meuhedet, Leumit), you can see a fund doctor for prescriptions covered under the national health basket.

Israeli Pharmacies: What You Need to Know

• All independent pharmacies and Superpharm branches (approximately 20 outlets in Tel Aviv alone) accept all valid Israeli prescriptions.
• Kupat Holim pharmacies work exclusively with their own health fund members. For example, Maccabi Pharmacies only accept prescriptions for Maccabi patients.
• Private prescriptions (written by private doctors such as Tel Aviv Doctor) are accepted at private pharmacies and Superpharm, but not at Kupat Holim-affiliated pharmacies unless you are a member of that fund.

Practical Tip for New Immigrants

If you have not yet registered with a Kupat Holim or are waiting for your health insurance to activate, a private clinic such as Tel Aviv Doctor can provide a legally valid Israeli prescription that can be filled immediately at Superpharm or independent pharmacies.