Pharmacy Vending Machines FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the pharmacy vending machines?
A: The pharmacy vending machines were implemented by the Purdue University Pharmacy as an initiative to provide students with 24/7 access to affordable over-the-counter (OTC) medications, contraceptives, and personal care products.
An example of this commitment to affordability is with the generic Plan B product. The OTC item for emergency contraception is approximately $12 in the pharmacy vending machines, while other retail establishments have this priced around $50.
Q: Where are the pharmacy vending machines located?
A: The pharmacy vending machines are located inside the Córdova Recreational Sports Center (COREC) near Freshens, Wilmeth Active Learning Center (WALC) on the first floor, Ford Dining Court, outside of Hillenbrand dining court, in the basement of Stewart near G018, on the lower level of MSEE close to the tunnel to the parking garage, at the dock area of RAWLS Hall, and the second floor of Earhart Residence Hall.
Q: What products are available in the pharmacy vending machines?
A: Products available at the pharmacy vending machines are subject to change but typically offer the following products*:
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Pain/Fever
- Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin)
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Allergy/Cough/Cold/Flu
- Loratadine (Claritin)
- Banophen (Benadryl)
- Daytime cold-flu relief (Vicks Dayquil Cold & Flu)
- Nasal decongestant spray (Afrin)
- Cough drops
Stomach Symptoms
- Loperamide (Imodium A-D)
- Simethicone (Gas-X)
- Bismuth subsalicylate (Bismatrol/Pepto-Bismol)
- Calcium carbonate (TUMS)
Other
- Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) – motion sickness
- Hydrocortisone 1% cream (Cortizone-10) – itching
- Triple antibiotic ointment (Neosporin) – skin infection prevention
- Phenazopyridine (Azo) – urinary pain relief
- Miconazole (Monistat) – vaginal yeast infection
- Artificial tear drops (Visine) – eye redness
Contraceptives and sexual wellness products
- Condoms
- Emergency contraceptive one-step (Plan B) tablets, 1.5 mg
- Lubricating jelly
- Pregnancy tests
Personal hygiene products
- Deodorant
- Tissues and wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Lip balm
- Toothpaste and mouthwash
* Note: Brand names may be provided in parenthesis for clarification. The pharmacy vending machines may stock generic versions of some products. Generic medications provide the same clinical effect as brand name medications.
Q: Where do the products in the pharmacy vending machines come from?
A: All products are sourced directly from the Purdue University Pharmacy located on the West Lafayette campus.
Q: How do the prices of products in the pharmacy vending machines compare to other retail pharmacies?
A: Products in the pharmacy vending machines are in general more affordable to counterparts in a retail pharmacy. The priority of the Purdue University Pharmacy is to improve accessibility to affordable, non-prescription, over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
An example of this commitment to affordability is with the generic Plan B product. The OTC item for emergency contraception is approximately $12 in the pharmacy vending machines, while other retail establishments have this priced around $50.
Q: I have a question about the product I purchased. Who can I ask for more information?
A: The Purdue University Pharmacy (Room 118 of the Robert E. Heine Pharmacy Building) can be reached Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM when classes are in session and from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM when classes are not in session at 765-494-1374. Outside of these hours, other local pharmacies can be contacted to answer questions related to OTC products.
Q: I purchased emergency contraception from the pharmacy vending machine, but where can I get access to birth control services?
A: The Purdue University Pharmacy offers birth control services, including birth control pills, patches, vaginal rings, and depot injections. A full list of services offered can be found on the Services page.
Q: I purchased an over-the-counter (OTC) medication from the pharmacy vending machine, but where can I get my prescription medication?
A: Prescription services are offered by the Purdue University Pharmacy on the West Lafayette campus. A full list of services offered can be found on our home page.