Pharmacy unions in France are suggesting that 33 different types of medications be made available for sale without a prescription. This move is intended to save 177 million euros for the country’s Health Insurance system. These medications would be accessible for common health issues like skin conditions, joint pain, sports injuries, digestive problems, fungal infections, allergies, occasional sleep difficulties, nausea, and toothaches that require a later doctor visit. The two main pharmacy unions—the Federation of French Pharmacists and the Union of Pharmacy Office Unions—have identified these 33 substances as appropriate for sale without a prescription, but with guidance from a pharmacist. The unions believe this change would help doctors focus on more serious cases, lower costs for the national health system, and make it easier for people to get needed treatments. The National Agency for the Safety of Medicines (ANSM) is in charge of deciding which medications can be sold without a prescription and under what conditions. In 2025, ANSM approved the sale of one medication used for heavy menstrual bleeding without a doctor’s prescription, marking a precedent for such changes. The proposal by the pharmacy unions is informed by experiences in other European countries and the current situation in France. Fabrice Camaioni, vice-president of the federation of pharmaceutical unions, said the proposal is reasonable, well-regulated, and expected. A federation representing companies that make over-the-counter health products estimates that this change could also save about 200 million euros in costs related to medical visits, further supporting the financial case for the proposal. This potential shift reflects a broader effort to streamline healthcare access and reduce the financial burden on both the public and the health system. The unions argue that by allowing certain medications to be sold without a prescription, they can help alleviate pressure on healthcare professionals and ensure that people receive timely treatment for minor health concerns without needing to visit a doctor.