Kazakhstan plans ban on online sales of antibiotics and prescription drugs

Kazakhstan is moving to severely restrict the sale of medicines online, with the Ministry of Healthcare proposing a complete ban on the sale of prescription drugs, including common antibiotics, through online marketplaces. This initiative aims to address the growing problem of medications requiring a doctor's prescription being freely available on various internet platforms.

Bauyrzhan Jussipov, Chairman of the Committee for Medical and Pharmaceutical Control, told Tengrinews.kz that while the ministry has been responding to illegal listings on a case-by-case basis by contacting authorized agencies, these targeted measures are insufficient. The ministry now intends to regulate the issue systemically to ensure prescription drugs are dispensed only by pharmacists in physical pharmacies.

The proposed changes will mean consumers can no longer order antibiotics or other prescription medicines online for home delivery or pickup. Instead, they will be required to visit traditional pharmacies in person and present a valid official prescription from a doctor. This return to traditional dispensing methods is intended to enhance control over medication access.

The Ministry of Healthcare is expected to finalize the draft regulatory norms by autumn. This systemic approach reflects a broader effort to control the distribution of potentially harmful or misused medications and ensure they are administered under proper medical supervision.

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Prescription drugs must under no circumstances be bought or purchased online. They must be dispensed by a pharmacist at a pharmacy.