
Healthcare knows no boundaries. For families and patients in Italy, accessing the right medicines on time can be a challenge due to availability issues or high costs. That’s where India, known globally as the “Pharmacy of the World,” plays a crucial role. With its trusted pharmaceutical industry and affordable yet high-quality medicines, India supports thousands of patients abroad — including in Rome, Milan, Florence, Naples, Turin, Bologna, Genoa, and Palermo.
Many Italian residents, expatriates, and students rely on Indian medicines for chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, arthritis, and cancer treatments. With the rise of reliable logistics and international courier partners, it is now possible to ship medicines directly from India to Italy quickly and legally.
This guide explains everything you need to know about sending medicines from India to Italy in 2025 — from courier charges and required documents to customs rules, courier networks, and how Shipmeds ensures a smooth delivery experience.
🌍 Why Indian Medicines Are Popular in Italy
India’s pharmaceutical sector is one of the world’s largest, offering:
Generic versions of costly international drugs at affordable prices.
Medicines manufactured under WHO, GMP, and FDA-approved standards.
A wide range of chronic illness drugs, life-saving cancer treatments, and herbal supplements.
Trusted brands recognized globally for safety and effectiveness.
Many Italian patients, especially those dealing with long-term conditions, find Indian medicines a reliable and budget-friendly option.
💰 Medicine Courier Charges from India to Italy
Medicine courier charges depend on weight, courier network, and urgency. Below is an estimated cost table:
Medicine Weight | Delivery Time | Pickup Cost | Total Charges |
---|---|---|---|
0.5 kg | 2–5 Days | None | ₹4,100 |
1 kg | 2–5 Days | None | ₹5,300 |
1.5 kg | 2–5 Days | None | ₹6,100 |
2 kg | 2–5 Days | None | ₹7,200 |
⚠️ Note: Rates vary depending on courier partner, urgency, and type of medicines.
📦 Packaging Guidelines for Medicine Courier
To ensure medicines are delivered safely:
Keep in Original Packaging – Strips or bottles must remain sealed.
Tamper-Proof Boxes – Use sturdy cartons with bubble wrap.
Cold-Chain Shipping – For temperature-sensitive medicines like insulin or vaccines, Shipmeds provides ice packs and insulated boxes.
Clear Labels – Mention “Medicines for Personal Use” on the package.
Attach Documents – Keep copies of prescription and invoice attached outside the box in a transparent pouch.
📄 Documents Required for Sending Medicines to Italy
Shipping medicines internationally requires proper documentation to avoid customs rejection. Here are the essential documents:

1. Doctor’s Prescription (Mandatory)
Issued by a licensed doctor.
Must include:
Patient’s name
Medicine name, dosage, duration
Doctor’s stamp, signature, and registration number
Should clearly state “For Personal Use.”
2. Pharmacy Invoice / Bill
Proof of purchase from an Indian pharmacy.
Must show:
Pharmacy’s name and contact details
Date of purchase
Medicine details and prices
Patient’s name (if possible)
3. Patient’s ID Proof
Required to confirm authenticity.
Accepted IDs:
Passport copy
Italian National ID / Residence Card
Any valid government ID
4. Sender’s ID Proof
Required by courier service in India.
Options: Passport, Aadhaar, or Driving License.
5. Customs Declaration Form
Provided by courier company.
Must declare medicine contents, quantity, and value with purpose: “Personal Medical Use.”
6. Import Permit (Restricted Medicines)
For controlled drugs like narcotics or psychotropics, approval from Italian health authorities (AIFA – Agenzia Italiana del Farmaco) may be required.
Common medicines like BP, diabetes, or thyroid treatments usually do not need this.
⚖️ Customs Regulations for Medicines to Italy
Medicines allowed only for personal medical use.
Typically, 30–90 days’ supply can be shipped.
Incomplete or fake prescriptions may cause parcel rejection.
Controlled or narcotic medicines require prior clearance.
Customs may randomly inspect parcels or verify authenticity of documents.
🚚 Top Courier Networks for Medicine Delivery to Italy
Shipmeds partners with leading courier companies for smooth cross-border delivery:
1. DHL
Known for express global shipping and safe handling.
Delivery Time: 3–5 working days
Strengths: Hassle-free customs, express medicine courier.
2. FedEx
Ideal for urgent healthcare shipments with real-time tracking.
Delivery Time: 3–6 working days
Strengths: Dependable, priority clearance for medical goods.
3. UPS
Offers insured door-to-door delivery, perfect for sensitive shipments.
Delivery Time: 4–6 working days
Strengths: Live tracking, strong support, insured parcels.
4. Aramex
Budget-friendly option for families sending medicines.
Delivery Time: 5–7 working days
Strengths: Cost-effective, reliable in Europe, smooth customs.
✅ Why Choose Shipmeds for India–Italy Medicine Delivery?
Specialized Medicine Courier – Unlike regular couriers, Shipmeds focuses exclusively on pharmaceuticals.
Fast & Secure Delivery – Medicines reach Rome, Milan, Florence, Naples, Turin, and smaller cities in 3–6 working days.
Affordable Shipping Costs – Best pricing through partnerships with DHL, FedEx, UPS, and Aramex.
Customs Assistance – Shipmeds handles all paperwork and works with Italian authorities for clearance.
Door-to-Door Service – Pickup from your home in India and delivery at patient’s doorstep in Italy.
Cold-Chain Solutions – Temperature-controlled medicines transported safely.
Live Tracking – Real-time shipment updates.
24/7 Support – Guidance on documents, regulations, and delivery status.
❓ FAQs – Sending Medicines from India to Italy with Shipmeds
1. Can I send prescription medicines from India to Italy?
Yes, Shipmeds specializes in doctor-prescribed medicine courier services.
2. Do I need a doctor’s prescription?
Yes, a valid prescription is mandatory for customs clearance.
3. How long does it take for medicines to reach Italy?
On average, 3–6 working days depending on courier and destination.
4. Which courier partners are used?
Shipmeds works with DHL, FedEx, UPS, and Aramex.
5. Can Shipmeds deliver medicines outside major cities?
Yes, Shipmeds delivers across Italy, including remote areas.
6. What documents are needed?
Doctor’s prescription, pharmacy invoice, patient ID, sender ID, and customs declaration form.
7. Do I need approval for all medicines?
No, only controlled substances require an Italian import permit.
8. Can Shipmeds handle urgent deliveries?
Yes, express services deliver in 2–4 days for urgent needs.
9. Are cold-chain medicines like insulin shipped safely?
Yes, Shipmeds uses insulated packaging with ice packs for sensitive items.
10. Is there a quantity limit?
Yes, usually a 30–90 days supply per shipment is permitted.