Prescriptions (Rezepte) in Germany

Types of Prescriptions

E-Rezept (since 2024)

Most prescriptions are now electronic:
- Doctor sends to system
- At pharmacy: insurance card or app

App: E-Rezept (official, free)

How Much Do You Pay for Medications?

With public insurance (GKV):

Zuzahlung (copay): 5-10€ per medication
- Min. 5€
- Max. 10€
- But max. 100% of medication price

Who Is Exempt?

• Children up to 18 years old
• Low-income individuals (Befreiung)
• Chronically ill patients (annual limit)

Annual Limit (Belastungsgrenze)

Max 2% of annual gross income for copays (1% for chronically ill).

After exceeding → Befreiung (exemption from copays for rest of year).

How to Use Your Prescription

1. Go to Apotheke (pharmacy)
2. Show prescription (insurance card or e-prescription code)
3. Pay copay (5-10€)
4. Receive medication

Medication Not Available?

Pharmacy can:
- Order it (ready next day)
- Suggest substitute (Ersatz)
- Give part now, rest later

Prescription Validity

Emergency Pharmacy (Notapotheke)

At night/weekends one pharmacy in the area is on duty.

Find: apothekenfinder.mobi or call 22 8 33

For night duty: +2.50€ surcharge

Editorial hamboorg.city · As of: April 2026 · Carefully prepared, regularly updated. Content is informational and does not replace legal advice.