Red Line for Medicine Sales: Online Sales Only Through Legal Channels
Dr. Hadi Ahmadi, a board member of the Iranian Pharmacists Association, announced the launch of a new government-monitored platform called the “Official Online Drug Sales System,” which will be the only legal channel for purchasing medicine online in Iran.
Ahmadi emphasized that medicine is a sensitive and strategic commodity that must be strictly controlled by the Ministry of Health. He warned that the sale of medication outside this official platform is illegal and will be prosecuted.
Concerns were raised about some online platforms that are selling prescription and sensitive medicines, such as vaccines and refrigerated drugs, without proper authorization. Legal action has already been initiated against such violators by the Food and Drug Administration.
Ahmadi cautioned against turning the digital space into a “virtual Nasser Khosrow” (a reference to a well-known black market in Tehran), warning that removing pharmacies from the official supply chain could empower pharmaceutical mafias and traffickers.
The new system is designed to ensure fair distribution, transparency, and proper oversight. Patients will receive a tracking code that connects them to the nearest licensed pharmacy, and deliveries will be made using secure methods like cold chain vehicles.
Online platforms will be limited to handling logistics and are prohibited from prescribing or directly selling medicines. Ahmadi concluded that the main goal is to protect public health and eliminate illegal online drug sales.
