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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DDB eases prescription restrictions on dangerous drugs

DDB eases prescription restrictions on dangerous drugs

Published Jul 11, 2025 02:51 pm
(Dangerous Drugs Board)
(Dangerous Drugs Board)
The Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) has temporarily relaxed prescription requirements for certain dangerous drugs to help patients access essential treatments amid emerging public health challenges.
The DDB issued Resolution No. 10, Series of 2025, which temporarily authorizes the use of ordinary prescription for dangerous drugs under specific circumstances.
The adjustment takes effect 15 days after its publication and official registration, and will remain valid until June 30, 2026 “unless earlier repealed.’’
Further, the DDB stressed that the move is a proactive measure aimed at improving access to essential treatment amid the ongoing threats posed by MPOX (monkeypox), the resurgence of Covid-19 cases, and the concerning rise of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections, specifically among the youth.
“This temporary regulatory flexibility is part of the government’s broader response to ensure uninterrupted care for patients affected by these public health threats,” the DDB noted.
By easing prescription requirements for essential medications, DDB Chairman Oscar Valenzuela stressed that healthcare providers can deliver timely and essential treatment, especially in underserved communities. 
Under the regulation, Valenzuela explained that the licensed medical practitioner with a valid “S2 license” may now issue triplicate copies of ordinary prescriptions for medicines and pharmaceutical products containing dangerous drugs, in lieu of the Department of Health (DOH)-issued special (yellow) prescription forms.
The DDB clarified that the regulation lays out detailed guidance on the content and handling of the concerned prescriptions, including prescription duration, conditions for multi-month prescriptions, responsibilities of dispensing pharmacists, and records management of prescribing physicians.
“These safeguards are designed to balance accessibility with proper monitoring and accountability,’’ Valenzuela implored.
The DDB chief also noted that the temporary measure is aligned with the standing recommendation of the World Health Organization (WHO) under the “International Health Regulations” (IHR), which call for improved access to regulated therapeutics during global health emergencies.
“This also responds to the Department of Health report of a 500 percent increase in HIV infections among the Filipino youth as of June 2025,” the DDB disclosed.
However, the DDB asserted that criminal and administrative sanctions under Republic Act (RA) 9165 or “The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002” remain in effect to ensure that the temporary use of ordinary prescription will not be abused.
“We are reinforcing our commitment to public health while ensuring the proper oversight of controlled substances. This is a science-based, patient-centered policy that aligns with our duty to protect life while upholding the integrity of our drug control measures,” Valenzuela pointed out.
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