New regulations governing the distribution of nalbuphine came into force

Effective 15 March 2026, controls over the distribution of morphine derivatives, specifically those with the international nonproprietary name “nalbuphine”, have been enhanced. Effective 15 March 2026, the distribution of nalbuphine within Ukraine is subject to the control measures set forth in the Law of Ukraine “On Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances, and Precursors”.

Any operations with nalbuphine are permitted only if the party involved holds a license to engage in commercial activities on the distribution of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and precursors.

Nalbuphine may be dispensed only by pharmacies licensed to engage in commercial activities conducting the distribution of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and precursors, and exclusively upon presentation of an electronic prescription for narcotic (psychotropic) drugs (e-prescription), except in cases provided for by law.

During the period of martial law in the territories of active hostilities, in the territories of active hostilities where state electronic information resources are in operation, or in territories temporarily occupied by the Russian Federation that are included in the List of territories where military actions are or were conducted, or temporarily occupied by the Russian Federation, approved by Order of the Ministry of Community and Territorial Development of Ukraine No. 376 dated 28 February 2025 (hereinafter—the List), in the absence of the technical capability to issue such prescriptions, they may be issued in paper on a special prescription form No. 3 (F-3) during the period of hostilities or temporary occupation and for three months following the date of the end of hostilities or temporary occupation specified in the List. Pharmacies are required to retain such prescriptions for 5 years.

These prescriptions are valid for 10 days.

To find the nearest pharmacy of this type, you need to use the official National Health Service of Ukraine’s dashboard.

This is another essential step toward transparent oversight of the distribution of medicines that carry a risk of abuse.