Portugal's medicine costs surge, leaving families struggling to afford essential drugs

The energy crisis caused by the war has pushed up the cost of living across Europe—and medicines are no exception. In Portugal, households now face the highest financial burden for prescription drugs compared to similar countries, forcing many to stretch their budgets just to afford essential treatments. Portuguese families spend an average of €148.30 per year on medicines, amounting to 0.73% of the average salary of €20,451 between 2022 and 2025. This is more than double the €72.70 spent by French households, where prescription costs represent just 0.16% of a much higher average income (€44,904). The strain is clear: 16.1% of Portuguese report difficulties affording their medications, compared to only 4% in France.

Access to medicines remains uneven, with Portugal scoring 52% in equity—below its European peers. Some drugs have seen dramatic price surges. Obesity treatments, for example, jumped by 378.5% in sales, reaching 572,256 units in 2025 compared to 2024. Patients pay entirely out of pocket, with monthly costs ranging from €180 to €338. High antidepressant prescriptions have also risen, partly because cheaper alternatives are no longer available. Despite strict price controls on medicines in Portugal, soaring living costs are forcing consumers to make tough choices. Many now cut back on other expenses to fill prescriptions, while some skip treatments altogether. Pharmacists report seeing customers prioritise essential drugs over basic needs.

The rising cost of medicines adds to the financial pressure on Portuguese households. With prescription expenses eating up a larger share of incomes than in neighbouring countries, affordability remains a growing concern. The situation highlights the wider impact of inflation on access to healthcare across Europe.