What Do the Symbols on a Medicine Package Mean? A Simple Explanation

 

What Do the Symbols on a Medicine Package Mean? | A Simple Explanation for Users in Germany

When buying medicine from a pharmacy in Germany, you will notice several symbols and abbreviations on the package. Here are the meanings of the most important ones:

1. PZN – Pharmacy Central Number (Pharmazentralnummer)

• An eight-digit number

• Used to uniquely identify each medicine or pharmaceutical product

• Important when ordering medicines online or via invoice

• Example on the package: PZN: 12345678

2. “Rp” – Prescription Required (Rezeptpflichtig)

• Means the medicine can only be dispensed with a doctor’s prescription

• Sale without prescription is prohibited

3. “Apothekenpflichtig” – Available Only in Pharmacies

• Can be purchased without a prescription, but only from a pharmacy

• Example: High-dose Vitamin D, certain painkillers

4. “Verschreibungspflichtig” – Subject to Prescription

• Indicates that the active ingredient is legally regulated

• Dispensing without prescription may result in penalties for the pharmacy

5. Dosage Form (Darreichungsform) Indicates the form of the product, such as:

• Tbl. = Tablets

• Kps. = Capsules

• Salbe = Ointment

• Tropfen = Drops

• Lösung = Solution

• i.v. = For intravenous injection

6. Expiry Date (Verwendbar bis)

• Usually written with month and year, e.g.: “Verwendbar bis: 08/2026”

• After this date, the medicine must not be used

7. Special Warnings The package or leaflet may contain additional symbols, such as:

• ⚠️ General warning regarding use or side effects

• 🚫 Not suitable in certain cases (e.g., pregnancy)

• ❄️ Store in a cool place

• ☀️ Protect from sunlight

• 👶 Not suitable for children