Brazilian consumers express high fear regarding online medicine purchases

A study by the QualiBest Research Institute, commissioned by the Brazilian Association of Pharmacy and Drugstore Chains (Abrafarma), reveals that nearly 70% of Brazilian consumers fear purchasing medicines online due to the risk of receiving counterfeit products.

Beyond counterfeiting, 59% of respondents expressed concern regarding expired items or improper storage, while 54% worried about products lacking registration with the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa). To address these concerns, 82% of those surveyed believe digital transactions must be mandatorily linked to accredited pharmacies.

While Anvisa recently overturned restrictions on the digital advertising and sale of medicines through platforms like iFood, Mercado Livre, and Shopee, the agency clarified that this does not grant automatic authorization for all sales. Under Law No. 15,357/2026, licensed pharmacies may use digital channels for logistics and delivery, provided they adhere to current sanitary regulations. Abrafarma CEO Sérgio Menna Barreto noted that immediate impact is pending specific Anvisa regulations.