Portuguese at a Pharmacy in Brazil: Ask for Help and Explain a Need
Practice language for finding a pharmacy product and asking staff to repeat or write down instructions.
Real Life Portuguese · 8 min read · Updated October 14, 2026
The short answer
Farmácia means pharmacy. To ask for an item, say Estou procurando… (I’m looking for…) or Onde encontro…? (Where can I find…?). If you know the product name, show the package or write it down. Product names and formulations can differ between countries, so ask a pharmacist rather than selecting a replacement based only on a similar name.
Ask where to find a product
This page teaches communication phrases, not medical advice. Tell the pharmacist what information you need and follow professional instructions and local rules for medicines. If you have an urgent or severe problem, seek appropriate local medical help.
Com licença, onde encontro protetor solar?
Excuse me, where can I find sunscreen?
Estou procurando este produto. Você tem?
I’m looking for this product. Do you have it?
Você pode me ajudar a encontrar a seção de curativos?
Can you help me find the bandage section?
Explain a simple need and ask what information matters
Use Estou com… to describe a basic symptom or need, such as dor de cabeça (headache) or alergia (allergy). Keep the information factual and specific. If you are asking about a medicine, share relevant allergies and ask the pharmacist whether you should consult a doctor.
Do not guess a dosage or use an unfamiliar product because a word sounds similar to one you know. Ask staff to explain the label, and request a written note if you need to remember the instruction. A qualified professional can clarify what is appropriate for your situation.
Estou com dor de cabeça. Você pode me orientar?
I have a headache. Can you guide me?
Tenho alergia a este ingrediente.
I’m allergic to this ingredient.
Preciso consultar um médico?
Do I need to see a doctor?
Ask staff to repeat or write down instructions
Instructions may contain unfamiliar words or numbers. Ask Pode repetir mais devagar? (Could you repeat more slowly?) or Você pode escrever isso? (Could you write that down?). Then repeat what you understood and ask whether it is correct.
Make sure you understand any relevant warnings, timing, or next step before leaving. If a label or instruction is unclear, ask the pharmacist to explain it again. Do not rely on a rough translation for medical directions.
Pode explicar as instruções da embalagem?
Could you explain the package instructions?
Você pode escrever o nome do produto para mim?
Could you write the product name for me?
Só para confirmar: devo seguir esta orientação?
Just to confirm: should I follow this instruction?
Prepare a short pharmacy conversation
Write down the product or symptom you need to discuss, any allergy you should mention, and the question you need answered. Show the relevant package or a translated note if vocabulary is difficult. Ask one question at a time and confirm the information before you leave.
For general travel communication, review Real Life Portuguese lessons on asking for help and clarifying information. I Speak Portuguese teachers can help you practice the phrases aloud. For health decisions, follow advice from a qualified local professional and emergency services when necessary.
Estou procurando este produto. Pode me explicar como usar?
I’m looking for this product. Can you explain how to use it?
Tenho alergia a penicilina. Preciso falar com um médico?
I’m allergic to penicillin. Do I need to speak with a doctor?
Pode escrever essa orientação, por favor?
Could you write that instruction down, please?
Put it into practice
Use a package or written note when possible, mention relevant allergies, and ask a pharmacist to explain instructions. This language guide does not replace professional medical advice.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “Could you write that instruction down, please”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
Build on this guide with everyday expressions and native Brazilian audio. Choose iPhone, Android, or the web app.