How Electronic Prescriptions Have Impacted Sales

The introduction of electronic prescription systems in Uzbekistan has not negatively affected prescription drug sales in pharmacies. Results from a nationwide pilot project revealed no significant “halt” or sharp decline in the market as anticipated. Analyst Erkin Karimov reported this.

Beginning December 10, 2025, electronic prescriptions were gradually implemented in Tashkent city and 15 other regions. Under the new regulations, doctors prescribe medicines based on international nomenclature, and pharmacies sell medications exclusively through electronic prescriptions with QR codes. This initiative aims to improve transparency in the pharmaceutical trade, limit unauthorized sales, and enhance patient safety.

Analyses were conducted by Datfo Analytics based on data from over 300 pharmacies. Experts compared pre-implementation and post-implementation periods of electronic prescriptions to evaluate the market's actual response. Contrary to many predictions, stricter prescription requirements did not lead to a sharp drop in sales.

Demand for some medicines even increased. For instance, the daily sales of the analgesic "Fanigan" rose from an average of 45.8 tablets to 54 tablets. Similarly, sales of the antibiotic "Azimak 500 mg" increased from 2.3 boxes to 2.6 boxes per day. This demonstrates that both patients and doctors adapted quickly to the new system.

Meanwhile, the demand for "Levomak 500 mg" remained almost unchanged. In the essential medicines category, no major fluctuations were observed. For example, sales of the insulin "Insulatard" decreased by approximately 5%, but overall demand remained stable.

Experts concluded that the anticipated negative scenarios from electronic prescriptions in pharmacies did not materialize. “The market continues to function, and patients have not faced significant obstacles in accessing the necessary medications,” the analysis stated.

Previously, Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Health had provided public explanations regarding the objectives and mechanisms of the electronic prescription system. Current results indicate that this reform is being implemented smoothly in the pharmaceutical market.

Marifat Mahmanova

Editor of «ZAMIN.UZ»