New pharmacy rules in 2026: how the assortment and prices of medications will change

New regulations for the pharmaceutical market in Ukraine

According to ХВИЛЯ: In 2026, new regulations will be introduced in Ukraine that will significantly impact the assortment and cost of pharmaceutical products. According to the decision made by the Cabinet of Ministers at the end of December 2022, pharmacies are required to sell only the three lowest-priced medications from the National Catalog. Health Minister Viktor Lyashko noted that this decision will eliminate situations where patients are pushed towards expensive brands when cheaper alternatives are available.

Impact of new rules on the market

Additionally, the new rules also allow for the sale of over-the-counter medications at gas stations. This could enhance convenience for consumers, as medications become more available in various locations. According to Proxima Research, by the end of 2025, the sales volume of medications in monetary terms increased by 4.7%, while the market showed a decrease of 3.2% in physical packaging.

It is also worth noting that prices for critically important medications are expected to rise by no more than 5% per year. This provides some stability for consumers in planning their expenses on medical products. The new rules that will take effect in 2026 may significantly change the situation in Ukraine's pharmaceutical market, ensuring the availability of medications and controlling their prices.

The introduction of new regulations for the pharmaceutical market in Ukraine may positively impact the accessibility of medications for the population, particularly through lower drug prices.

This, in turn, could enhance the quality of medical care, as patients gain the ability to purchase more effective and affordable medicines. However, an important aspect remains the quality control of medications and ensuring their availability in all regions of Ukraine.