Changes to the rules governing the distribution and use of veterinary medicinal products
2026. September 30.Decree No. 19/2026 (IX. 14.) AÉM, issued by the minister responsible for agriculture and the food economy, was published in Issue No. 132 of the Hungarian Gazette on 14 September 2026. The decree introduces several amendments to the rules governing the distribution and use of veterinary medicinal products. Contrary to the earlier proposal, the final legislation does not permit the distance selling of prescription-only veterinary medicinal products.
Distance selling of non-prescription veterinary medicinal products
The amendment allows non-prescription veterinary medicinal products to be sold remotely by licensed retail establishments in Hungary and by community pharmacies, provided that the seller has registered with NÉBIH in advance. The distance selling of prescription-only veterinary medicinal products remains prohibited.
Prescribing and dispensing of prescription-only veterinary medicinal products
The rules governing veterinary prescriptions and the dispensing of veterinary medicinal products have been clarified, including the information required on prescriptions and the frequency of dispensing. In future, prescription-only veterinary medicinal products may only be dispensed without a prescription for personal use to veterinarians who can provide appropriate proof of their professional qualification.
Monitoring the use of antibiotics
From 1 January 2028, treating veterinarians will be required to submit monthly data through NÉBIH’s electronic system on the use of antibiotic-containing veterinary medicinal products in dogs and cats. At the same time, wholesalers will also become subject to reporting obligations concerning the distribution of these products.
Rules on wholesale distribution
Wholesalers will only be permitted to sell veterinary medicinal products to other wholesalers or retailers and will be required to verify the buyer’s valid operating licence before completing the sale. According to the explanatory memorandum, the purpose of the amendment is to simplify official inspections and improve the management of risks associated with the distribution of veterinary medicinal products.
Companion animals
From 1 January 2029, requirements relating to the prescribing and use of antibiotic-containing veterinary medicinal products, including requirements linked to an official certificate, will also apply to companion animals.
As a general rule, the amendment enters into force on 29 September 2026. The reporting requirements concerning the use of antibiotics in dogs and cats will apply from 1 January 2028, while the requirements extended to companion animals will apply from 1 January 2029. The changes will have practical implications in particular for veterinarians, wholesalers and retailers involved in the distribution of veterinary medicinal products, as well as community pharmacies.