Prescription medicine in Hong Kong is regulated by the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, which requires that prescriptions be issued by a registered medical practitioner, dentist, or veterinary surgeon. The prescription must include important details such as the date, patient’s name and address, total amount of medicine to be supplied, dosage instructions, signature of the prescriber, and their address.
It is mandatory to present a valid prescription when purchasing prescription-only medicines in Hong Kong. Pharmacies, also known as Authorized Sellers of Poisons, are required to retain prescriptions for two years. Receipts, referral letters, or investigation reports are not eligible for purchasing prescription-only medicines; only prescriptions from registered practitioners are accepted.
In addition to pharmacies, prescription medicines can also be obtained from clinics and hospitals in Hong Kong. A prescription will be provided during your visit to these healthcare facilities, and the medication can be filled on-site. Different categories of drugs are classified in Hong Kong, with Category 1 drugs requiring a doctor’s prescription for purchase.
Overall, the regulations surrounding prescription medicine in Hong Kong ensure that patients receive appropriate treatment under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals.
