Skip to content

FR · regulator ANSM

Medicine brand names in France

The local brand name for each active ingredient in France. 22 of 22 medicines have a listed local brand. If a medicine shows "generic", ask the pharmacist for it by its ingredient name.

Medicines and their brand names in France
Active ingredientBrand in FranceClassATC
ParacetamolDoliprane, Efferalgan, DafalganAnalgesic, antipyreticN02BE01
IbuprofenAdvil, NurofenNSAIDM01AE01
Co-amoxiclavAugmentinPenicillin + beta-lactamase inhibitorJ01CR02
AmoxicillinClamoxylPenicillin antibioticJ01CA04
OmeprazoleMopralProton pump inhibitorA02BC01
EsomeprazoleInexiumProton pump inhibitorA02BC05
MetforminGlucophageBiguanide antidiabeticA10BA02
AtorvastatinTahorStatinC10AA05
AmlodipineAmlorCalcium channel blockerC08CA01
LosartanCozaarAngiotensin II receptor blockerC09CA01
CetirizineZyrtec, VirlixAntihistamineR06AE07
LoratadineClarityneAntihistamineR06AX13
FexofenadineTelfastAntihistamineR06AX26
SalbutamolVentolineShort-acting beta-2 agonistR03AC02
MontelukastSingulairLeukotriene receptor antagonistR03DC03
LevothyroxineLevothyroxThyroid hormoneH03AA01
DiclofenacVoltarèneNSAIDM01AB05
CiprofloxacinCifloxFluoroquinolone antibioticJ01MA02
AzithromycinZithromaxMacrolide antibioticJ01FA10
MetronidazoleFlagylNitroimidazole antimicrobialP01AB01
SertralineZoloftSSRI antidepressantN06AB06
ClopidogrelPlavixAntiplateletB01AC04

Same active ingredient does not always mean the same strength, salt or release form. Check the pack and ask a local pharmacist.

Travelling to France with medicines

  • Carry medicines in their original, labelled packs, with a copy of the prescription.
  • Write down the active ingredient and strength, not just the brand name.
  • Some medicines that are sold over the counter at home need a prescription abroad, or are restricted. Check the destination's rules before you travel.
  • If a local pack looks different, compare the strength, salt and release form (for example SR or XR) with the pharmacist.

Official source

Medicines in France are licensed by ANSM. Pillport checks brand names against this regulator.

Visit ANSM

Stay informed. Travel smarter.

Get updates, new features and educational resources.

For educators & students

Get early access to Pro features, classroom tools and teaching resources.

Join the waitlist