Many items are available over the counter, like ibuprofen or paracetamol or even certain dosages of allergy medicines. You can usually purchase anticontraceptive pills as well as condoms without the scrip, too. Medications that require a prescription are stronger painkillers and antibiotics, among others.

You cannot “buy” a prescription. You can have a consultation with a doctor who can issue a prescription for a medication you need. If you use DoctorsinItaly you can easily get it done through a video consultation at a very affordable fee (usually around 20 EUR).

This is what the handbook from my daughter's school in Perugia has to say about meds: "Keep in mind that drugs approved in the U.S. may be banned in other countries. The Italian government considers certain drugs illegal (including Ritalin, Cylert, Adderall, Wellbutrin, Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft).