Drugstore Chains in India: Where to Buy Medicines and What to Know

When you need medicine fast, drugstore chains, networks of retail pharmacies that sell prescription and over-the-counter medicines across multiple locations. Also known as pharmacy chains in India, they’re often the first place people go after a doctor’s visit—not just for pills, but for advice, home delivery, and even basic health checks. These aren’t just stores. In cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, they’ve become part of daily health routines, offering everything from insulin to painkillers, baby formula to blood pressure monitors.

Not all drugstore chains are the same. Some are huge national brands like Apollo Pharmacy, a leading retail pharmacy chain in India offering prescriptions, diagnostics, and wellness products under one roof. Others are regional players like MedPlus, a fast-growing pharmacy chain with strong presence in South India, known for competitive pricing and loyalty programs. Then there are the online-only players—like 1mg, a digital health platform that lets you order medicines online, compare prices, and get them delivered in hours. Each has different rules: some require a physical prescription, others let you upload it digitally. Some deliver in two hours. Others charge extra for night delivery.

What’s legal? In India, you can’t buy most prescription drugs without a valid script from a registered doctor. But many people still walk into pharmacies and ask for antibiotics or painkillers without one. It happens. But it’s risky. The same drug sold at one chain might cost 30% more at another. And not every store checks if the medicine is expired or counterfeit. That’s why knowing your chain matters. Look for stores with clear pricing, licensed pharmacists on site, and digital prescription records.

Want to save money? Compare prices across chains. Use apps that show real-time pricing. Some even let you upload your prescription and get a quote before you leave home. If you’re on long-term meds—like for diabetes or high blood pressure—ask about subscription plans. Many chains now offer monthly auto-delivery with discounts. And if you’re using something like Ozempic or Wegovy, check if the pharmacy works with insurance or offers payment plans. Not all do.

There’s also the question of trust. A pharmacy that sells herbal supplements alongside cancer drugs should make you pause. Are they trained to advise on drug interactions? Do they know if your blood pressure medicine clashes with that turmeric pill you’re taking? The best drugstore chains don’t just hand out pills—they ask questions. They remember your name. They warn you about side effects.

What you’ll find in the posts below are real stories and facts about how people in India get their medicines—whether through local pharmacies, online delivery, or even unregulated sellers. You’ll learn how to spot safe providers, what to ask before buying, and why some prescriptions are easier to get than others. There’s no fluff. Just what works, what doesn’t, and what you need to know before your next visit to the drugstore.