The State Service of Ukraine on Medicines and Drugs Control has issued the first licenses for the sale of over-the-counter medications at gas stations

The State Service for Medicines and Drug Control has issued a series of permits allowing gas station chains to engage in the retail sale of over-the-counter medications. 

According to the agency’s decision dated March 6, 2026, the relevant licenses were granted to the companies Glusko Retail, Migrol, Ukrnafta, ALLIANCE HOLDING, and OKKO-DRIVE. The new initiative aims to expand citizens’ access to essential medicines in high-traffic areas and along major highways.

On March 13, the State Service of Ukraine on Medicines and Drugs Control made changes to the licensing registry, expanding the network of sales points for OKKO-DRIVE to eight locations in various cities. While Russia continues to create logistical challenges for Ukraine’s infrastructure, the government is introducing additional services to meet the medical needs of the population outside of brick-and-mortar pharmacies. The sale of medications at gas stations will be conducted in compliance with established requirements for drug storage and product quality control. The use of non-specialized retail outlets to sell medicines is part of an overall strategy to modernize the healthcare system and bring services closer to consumers.

Previously, the Cabinet of Ministers authorized the sale of over-the-counter medications at gas stations. Gas station employees will be able to dispense medications under a license, and the premises must have a separate area designated for storing medicines. The decision aims to make medications more accessible, particularly in rural areas and frontline regions. 

The Ministry of Health and the State Service for Food Safety and Consumer Protection have been tasked with monitoring prices for certain medications to prevent price hikes.