The President signed a decree banning drug advertising in Ukraine

Photo: OP

Volodymyr Zelenskyy supported the ban on advertising of drugs. The President signed a decree enforcing the relevant decision of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine (NSDC).

UA reports this with reference to the Office of the President.

The moratorium is expected to protect Ukrainians from self-treatment and minimize the harmful effects of self-treatment on health.

The restrictions are likely to take effect starting January 1, 2024. Until the date set, the Cabinet of Ministers must ban the advertising of drugs in the media (including radio and television). The decision of the National Security and Defense Council signed by the President provides the government with the relevant right.

What cannot be advertised:

  • medicines;
  • methods of prevention and diagnosis;
  • methods of treatment and rehabilitation.

In addition, special attention is paid to the sale of prescription drugs. The government will ensure that doctors do not prescribe a large number of drugs or medical procedures to Ukrainians.

Also in early August, Zelensky signed amendments to Art. 21 of the Law “On Medical Products”, which banned the sale of medicines to young Ukrainians. Pharmacies and retail chains are now banned from selling drugs to children under 14.