Telepharmacy — the remote sale of medications and pharmaceutical consultation — is a rapidly growing but strictly regulated field in Georgia. Online drug sales involve public health risks, so legislation imposes specific restrictions. The main challenge is the controlled dispensing of prescription medications (especially psychotropics and antibiotics). Telepharmacy services also include managing electronic prescriptions (Form N3) and safe drug transportation (cold chain maintenance). Online pharmacies need the same authorization as physical pharmacies, plus additional digital compliance.
Specialists on Legal.ge offer full legal support for online pharmaceutical activities:
- Online pharmacy authorization: Assistance in obtaining a pharmaceutical activity permit that includes an online sales component.
- Electronic prescription system: Consulting on legal aspects of integration with the state E-Health system.
- Delivery service regulations: Drafting courier service agreements that account for special conditions for medication transport.
- Prohibited medication list: Consulting on which groups of drugs are prohibited for online sale (e.g., psychotropic substances).
- Remote pharmacist consultation: Creating a legal framework for video or chat consultations with patients.
In practice, the biggest risk involves dispensing medication without a prescription. If an online platform does not verify the electronic prescription properly and issues an antibiotic or sedative, the company faces substantial fines or revocation of its license/permit. Delivery issues are also problematic: if a courier lacks a special thermal bag and the medicine spoils during transport, the pharmacy is liable. Telepharmacy startups must realize they cannot operate as a simple "E-commerce" store.
In Georgia, this field is regulated by the Law "On Medicines and Pharmaceutical Activities." The law strictly defines rules for selling Group I and II pharmaceutical products. The electronic prescription system is mandatory, and bypassing it is punishable. Regarding online trade, the Law "On Protection of Consumer Rights" also applies, though special exceptions apply to medication returns (medicines generally cannot be returned).
Working with a specialist begins with a business model audit. The lawyer will help you choose the right form: do you need your own warehouse, or can you partner with existing pharmacy chains (aggregator model). The lawyer also ensures your website contains all mandatory warnings and information about drug side effects.
Legal.ge is the platform where pharmaceutical business and technology meet law. An online pharmacy is a promising business but involves walking a regulatory "tightrope." Our experts will help ensure your walk is safe and legal.
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