Good question, this is something I explain to patients from abroad regularly.

The short answer is yes, Mexico's system is considerably more relaxed. Many medications that require a prescription in Canada are available over the counter here. Antibiotics like amoxicillin and azithromycin, blood pressure medications, strong NSAIDs, allergy medications, asthma inhalers, birth control pills, you can purchase all of these directly from a pharmacy without a prescription.

However, there are important exceptions. Controlled substances like benzodiazepines, opioids, and stimulants require a special prescription called a "receta con código de barras" (barcoded prescription) that only a licensed Mexican physician can issue. Psychotropic medications including antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications also require a prescription. If you take any of these, my strong recommendation is to bring a sufficient supply from Canada while you establish care with a local physician who can write the appropriate prescriptions.

For pharmacy chains in Playa, Farmacia del Ahorro generally has the best pricing and offers a loyalty card. Farmacias Similares specializes in generic medications at the lowest prices, and they also have walk-in physician consultations for $40 MXN, which is useful for minor issues. Farmacia Guadalajara has a broad selection and frequent promotions.

Two things worth knowing: generic medications here ("genéricos") contain the same active ingredients and are 50-80% cheaper. There is no clinical difference. And if you bring your current medication packaging, any pharmacist can identify the Mexican equivalent by the generic compound name. The brand names will be different but the drug is the same.

Some pharmacies also deliver through Rappi or their own apps, which is convenient when you are not feeling well.