When technology precedes regulation: E-pharmacy in Kenya, Nigeria and India

Abstract

Medicine sales over the internet is a new, yet growing phenomenon in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). E-pharmacy in high-income countries has raised public health concerns, including sales of prescription-only medicines without a prescription, the sale of counterfeit and substandard medicines, and inadequate provision of information to patients. E-pharmacy also presents opportunities for enhancing health systems, improving both patient experience and public health outcomes. The regulatory environment in which firms operate is likely to have a major effect on its impact. Yet little is known about this emerging sector.