This study aimed to investigate spending on medicines by Brazilian families and related income inequalities, according to types of medicines. A cross-sectional study used data from the Family Budget Surveys conducted in 2002-2003 and 2008-2009. Expenditures were corrected according to the Extended National Consumer Price Index (IPCA). The Concentration Index (CI) was calculated as a measure of inequality. Average monthly spending on medicines was BRL 53.54 in the 2002-2003 survey and BRL 59.02 in 2008-2009. CI showed spending concentration in higher-income families. Spending composition varied according to family income. Lower-income families spent predominantly on analgesics, cold medicines, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Higher-income families concentrated their spending on medicines for diabetes and hypertension (and other cardiovascular diseases). From one survey to the next, even though lower-income households reduced the percentage of their budget spent on medicines, the latter still consume a large proportion of their health spending.