German drugstore chain dm sparks debate with online medicine sales
Drugstore chain dm will begin selling over-the-counter medicines online from tomorrow. The move has drawn criticism from Lower Saxony’s Health Minister Andreas Philippi, who argues that mandatory consultations should remain in place. He warns that customers could misuse medications without expert advice.
Minister Philippi, a member of the SPD, has openly opposed dm’s new online sales model. Unlike traditional pharmacies, the chain will not require customers to consult a professional before purchasing medication. Philippi stressed that quick access to medicines should not come at the expense of safety, particularly in rural areas like Lower Saxony.
The debate highlights tensions between accessibility and patient safety in medication sales. Lower Saxony’s government insists on maintaining professional oversight, even as dm moves forward with its online model. The outcome may influence future regulations on over-the-counter drug purchases in Germany.
