Spain expands drug prescription rights and tightens anti‑smoking bans

Spain's Council of Ministers approved a reform of the medicines law that will allow nurses and physiotherapists to prescribe certain drugs within defined protocols, and will introduce a prescription‑by‑active‑ingredient rule aimed at encouraging the use of equivalent medicines and reducing pharmaceutical costs. The reform also includes measures to secure supplies of strategic medicines and to promote access to innovative therapies.

At the same time, the government adopted an updated anti‑smoking bill that extends the prohibition on smoking to beaches, bar and restaurant terraces, public pools, university campuses, outdoor sports facilities and public‑transport shelters. The ban covers traditional cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, heated‑tobacco devices and nicotine‑pouch products, and it also prohibits sales to anyone under 18. The two proposals, presented by Health Minister Mónica García, will now be examined by Parliament, where they are expected to face strong opposition from hospitality and tourism groups while receiving support from medical organisations.