In what cases can a pharmacist dispense an antibiotic without a prescription?

Verified 05 February 2026 - Public Service / (Prime Minister)

Pharmacists who have received training can carry out a rapid diagnostic orientation test (Trod) in case of suspicion

  • D'angina in patients with 10 years and older when the symptoms presented by the person warrant the test
  • Or a simple urinary tract infection (cystitis) for older women of 16 to 65 years.

Before performing one of these tests, the pharmacist checks that the patient does not have an exclusion criterion, for example:

  • Pregnancy proven or not excluded
  • Immunosuppression (a weakened immune system) or risk of immunosuppression due to a disease (HIV) or a drug (chemotherapy...))
  • Insufficient collection of medical information (e.g. lack of command of the French language).

FYI  

The support of these tests by the Health Insurance is 70%. The rest is covered by a mutual.

In case of positive test confirming the infection, the pharmacist may prescribe antibiotics.

The site Ameli uploads schemas tracing the route a treatment by the pharmacy of theangina and urinary discomfort.