FAQ

How can I verify if a pharmacy is licensed in Cambodia?

All of our pharmacies at Ucare are officially registered with the Ministry of Health. We employ qualified pharmacists. You can recognise them by their white uniforms.

Where can I find food supplements in Phnom Penh?

At Ucare Pharmacy, we offer a wide range of high-quality dietary supplements, including vitamins, minerals, herbs, collagen, amino acids and sports supplements. Examples of brands include: Swisse, Natrol, Nature’s Bounty, TheraScience, Nat&Form and Pediakid.

Can we find Ucare Pharmacies in other cities than Phnom Penh in Cambodia?

Yes, even if the majority of our pharmacies are located in Phnom Penh, we are also present in Takmau, Kep, Kampot, Sihanoukville and Siem Reap. And soon in Battambang.

Can we find Ucare Pharmacy in other countries than Cambodia?

No, Ucare Pharmacy is a pharmacy chain only present in Cambodia. You can find Ucare pharmacies in other countries, but they are different entities and don’t correspond to our standards.

How can I get your products and services if there is no Ucare Pharmacy in the city where I live?

If there is no Ucare Pharmacy where you live, you still can get advices and purchase online:

–   Using our Mobile App to contact us and place an order

–   Checking on the main marketplaces, such as GRAB or FOOD PANDA, and get a delivery to your place

–   Contacting us through Facebook or Telegram; our dedicated team of pharmacist will reply to your questions and arrange online purchase and delivery.

We are using reputable transporters to ship the products all over the country, within one or two days, for an affordable price.

Are products in your pharmacies more expensive than in other pharmacies?

Generally, our products are not more expensive than in other pharmacies, but sometimes they may look expensive because we only select genuine products, and many of them come from other countries, like France, USA, Australia or Europe. If you can find products that are much cheaper online or in other shops, you should be careful, as many fake products are sold in the market. At Ucare Pharmacy, we can guarantee you the origin and quality of the products we sell. Also, sometimes, you can find the same brands but made in Thailand or Indonesia instead of France or USA. Their prices are cheaper, but sometimes the formulas and ingredients are a bit different.

Can Ucare Pharmacy provide a treatment for my health problems without getting a medical consultation?

As healthcare professionals able to make a pharmaceutical diagnosis, our certified and trained pharmacists can recommend a treatment in 80 to 90% of the cases met at our counters. Many medications can be proposed without a prescription from a doctor. However, for the 10 to 20% remaining cases, there is a need of clinical examination plus more testing, that may require the expertise of a doctor. And mostly, if there is no improvement after 48 hours using the recommended treatment, it is always explained that you must refer to a doctor.

Is it necessary to have a prescription to get an antibiotic in your pharmacies?

Yes it is, in most of the cases. Antibiotics must be prescribed by a doctor, based on a diagnosis, and according to the patient’s condition. Using antibiotics is not always necessary, as many infections are due to viruses or fungi that are not killed by antibiotics. Moreover, using antibiotics without justification can lead to less effectiveness of the treatment, due to development of anti-microbial resistance. However, in some special situations (urinary infection, …), our pharmacists are allowed to sell you an antibiotic in order to save time and because they can make the diagnosis.

What are your opening hours?

Our operating hours across Phnom Penh and the provinces are 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily, with the following exceptions:

Phnom Penh Urban Village Branch: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Siem Reap Old Market: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)

Kep Branch: 8:00 AM – 12PM and 1:00PM – 7:00PM 

Kompot Branch: 9:00 AM – 12PM and 1:00PM – 9:00PM 

Airport Branches: Opening hours vary based on flight schedules.

Can I take multiple medicines at the same time?

Yes, but only if they’re safe together. Some medicines can interact and cause side effects or reduce effectiveness. Always:

  • Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines you take (including vitamins and herbal products)
  • Follow the instructions carefully
  • Ask before adding a new medicine
    When in doubt, ask your pharmacist.

 

Are you open on weekends and public holidays?

Yes, we are! We remain open every day of the week, including all public holidays, with the same opening hours.

Where is your pharmacy located?

We have 29 stores that you can find by this link below:

https://ucarepharmacy.com/find-a-pharmacy/

How can I contact the pharmacy?

You can contact us by 

  • Call Us +855 78 588 833 Mon-Sun: 08:00 AM – 22:00 PM
  • Facebook Us Ucare Pharmacy
  • Telegram Us @Ucareonline
  • Email Us info@ucarepharma.com
Do I need a prescription to buy medicines in a pharmacy in Cambodia ?

It depends on the type of medication. Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines for common ailments can be purchased freely. However, for specialized or prescription-only (Rx) medications, a valid doctor’s prescription is required to ensure your safety. 

Do you have a licensed pharmacist on duty?

Yes, absolutely. We have at least one fully licensed pharmacist on duty at every branch during all operating hours, You can easily identify them by their professional uniform. Our team is committed to providing you with professional and safe  advice according to the last recommendations.

How do I know if a medicine requires a prescription?

When in doubt, ask us anytime.
Our pharmacists can quickly tell you:

  • Whether a prescription is required
  • If there’s a safe over-the-counter alternative
  • How to use the medicine correctly
Can I consult a pharmacist without an appointment?

No appointment is needed. Our pharmacists are available for on-site consultations during all operating hours to assist you with your health concerns or medication questions. 

Do you provide health advice?

Yes, we do. Our licensed pharmacists are trained to provide professional health advice and clinical guidance to all our customers, ensuring you receive safe and evidence-based information for your well-being. 

Is my information kept confidential?

Absolutely. We take patient privacy very seriously. All your personal and medical information is kept strictly confidential and is handled according to the highest professional and ethical standards.

Can I refill my prescription at your pharmacy?

Yes, you can refill your prescription at our pharmacy, as long as:

  • Your prescription is still valid
  • The refill is authorized by your doctor
  • The medicine is in stock

Please bring your prescription or previous medicine packaging, so our pharmacists can verify the details and ensure safe use.

Can I stop taking my medicine when I feel better?

It depends on the kind of medication. Always:

  • Finish the full course as prescribed
  • Continue chronic medication
  • Take the correct dose at the right time
  • Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before stopping any medicine

If you notice side effects or have concerns, don’t stop on your own—talk to us. We’re here to help.

What should I do if I take too much medicine?
  • Stop taking it immediately
  • Contact your doctor or pharmacist right away
  • Go to the emergency room if you feel very unwell
  • Bring the medicine packaging with you

Don’t try to treat it yourself, ask for help.

When should I contact a doctor or pharmacist about side effects?
  • If you notice any unusual or severe reactions
  • If side effects don’t go away or get worse
  • Before stopping or changing your medicine

 Always ask us if you’re unsure—we’re here to help.

Can children take adult medicines?

No, Adult medicines can be dangerous for children and may cause serious side effects.
Always use medicines made for children and follow the doctor or pharmacist’s instructions.

When in doubt, ask us before giving any medicine to a child.

How should elderly patients take medicines safely?
  • Take medicines exactly as prescribed
  • Keep a medicine schedule to avoid missing or doubling doses
  • Review all medicines (including supplements) with a doctor or pharmacist
  • Watch for side effects or interactions and report them promptly

Ask your pharmacist if you need help organizing or understanding your medicines.

Why must some medicines be taken with food?
  • Food can protect your stomach from irritation
  • It can help your body absorb the medicine more effectively.
  • Taking certain medicines on an empty stomach may cause side effects
  • Follow the instructions on your medicine and ask your pharmacist if unsure.
How should elderly patients take medicines safely?
  • Take medicines exactly as prescribed
  • Keep a medicine schedule to avoid missing or doubling doses
  • Review all medicines (including supplements) with a doctor or pharmacist
  • Watch for side effects or interactions and report them promptly

Ask your pharmacist if you need help organizing or understanding your medicines.

Why must some medicines be taken with food?
  • Food can protect your stomach from irritation
  • It can help your body absorb the medicine more effectively.
  • Taking certain medicines on an empty stomach may cause side effects
  • Follow the instructions on your medicine and ask your pharmacist if unsure.
Can I crush or split my tablets?

Not always.Some tablets are designed to release medicine slowly or protect your stomach. Crushing or splitting them can be dangerous.

What does “take once daily” mean?

“Take once daily” means you should take the medicine one time each day, usually at the same time every day. Follow your doctor’s instructions on whether to take it with food or on an empty stomach. How long should I take my medicine?

What should I do if my medicine looks different than usual?

If your medicine looks different in color, shape, or size, do not take it right away. Check the packaging and expiry date. Contact your pharmacist or doctor to make sure it is safe before using it.

How should medicines be stored at home?

Keep medicines in a cool, dry place, away from heat, sunlight, and moisture. Always store them out of reach of children and pets. Do not store medicines in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink. Check the packaging for any specific storage instructions.

 

Which medicines need refrigeration?

Some medicines must be kept in the refrigerator to stay effective. This usually includes insulin, certain vaccines, some eye drops, and liquid antibiotics. Always check the label or package insert for storage instructions, and ask your pharmacist if you’re unsure.

How can I keep medicines away from children?

Always store medicines in a high, locked cabinet or a place out of reach and sight of children. Never leave medicines on tables, counters, or bags where children can reach them. Use child-resistant caps when available, and teach children never to touch or take medicines without adult supervision. Be also careful with food supplements under the form of gummies because they look like candies.

.

Can expired medicines be harmful?

Yes. Expired medicines may lose their effectiveness and could cause harm or unexpected side effects. Always check the expiry date before taking any medicine and safely dispose of expired medicines.

How do I check the expiry date?

The expiry date is usually printed on the medicine box, bottle, or blister pack. Look for “EXP,” “Expiry,” or “Use by” followed by the month and year. Do not use the medicine if it is past this date.

.

What should I do with expired or unused medicines?

Do not throw medicines in the trash or flush them down the toilet. Take expired or unused medicines to a pharmacy take-back program if available, or follow your local disposal guidelines. This helps keep children, pets, and the environment safe.

 

Can I share my medicine with others?

No. Medicines are prescribed for one person only. Sharing medicines can be dangerous and may cause harm or side effects. Always take medicines exactly as your doctor or pharmacist instructs.

Are herbal medicines safe?

Not always. Some herbal medicines can be helpful, but they may also cause side effects or interact with other medicines. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using any herbal products, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medicines.

Can herbal products interact with prescription drugs?

Yes. Herbal products can change how prescription medicines work or increase the risk of side effects. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any herbal products you are taking before starting or changing a prescription medicine.

Is it safe to take food supplements with medicines?

Not always. Some food supplements can interact with medicines, reduce their effect, or increase side effects. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you are taking before starting or combining them with medicines.

Can medicines affect driving?

Yes. Some medicines can cause drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or slow reaction time, which can affect driving. Always read the label and warnings, and avoid driving until you know how the medicine affects you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.

What medicines should be avoided during pregnancy?

Some medicines can be harmful to the unborn baby. This includes certain painkillers, acne treatments, antibiotics, herbal products, supplements and even some cosmetics. Do not take any medicine during pregnancy unless it is approved by your doctor or pharmacist. Always inform healthcare providers if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Can breastfeeding mothers take medicines?

Yes, many medicines are safe during breastfeeding, but some can pass into breast milk and affect the baby. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine, including herbal products or supplements, while breastfeeding.

What medicines should not be taken with alcohol?

Many medicines can interact with alcohol, including painkillers, antibiotics, antidepressants, sedatives, and some cold or allergy medicines. Drinking alcohol while taking these medicines can increase side effects or make the medicine less effective. Always read the label and ask your pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure.

How do I recognize an allergic reaction to a medicine?

Signs of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face or throat), difficulty breathing, or dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop taking the medicine and seek medical help immediately.

What should I take for cough and sore throat?

You can relieve cough and sore throat by:

  • Drinking warm fluids like tea or water with honey
  • Using lozenges or throat sprays for comfort
  • Taking paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain or fever
  • Using a cough syrup if recommended by your pharmacist or doctor

If symptoms persist more than a week, worsen, or are accompanied by difficulty breathing or high fever, see a doctor.

How can I treat a common cold?

There is no cure for the common cold, but you can relieve symptoms by:

  • Resting and drinking plenty of fluids
  • Using paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever or aches
  • Using saline nasal drops or sprays for congestion
  • Avoiding smoking and alcohol
  • Never use antibiotic It’s not necessary  

Most colds get better within 7–10 days. See a doctor if symptoms worsen or last longer.