MANILA, Philippines — Doctors with special licenses can now use ordinary prescriptions for dangerous drugs, easing patient access amid health crises. This change in prescription rules reflects a significant shift in how dangerous drugs are prescribed, aiming to improve treatment availability.
The Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) released Board Regulation No. 10, series of 2025, allowing licensed medical practitioners to issue ordinary prescriptions instead of the hard-to-get special pads. This regulation started on July 11 and will last until June 30, 2026, unless revoked sooner.
Enhancing Access with Ordinary Prescriptions
The new policy responds to pressing local and global health challenges, including the ongoing mpox outbreak, rising COVID-19 cases, and a sharp increase in HIV infections among the youth. The keyphrase ordinary prescriptions for dangerous drugs highlights the change that aims to make essential treatments more accessible.
DDB Chair Secretary Oscar Valenzuela emphasized that this temporary flexibility supports uninterrupted care. “By easing prescription requirements for essential medications, we empower healthcare providers to deliver timely and essential treatments, especially in underserved communities,” he said.
What the New Regulation Entails
Previously, doctors with an S2 license from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) had to use special “yellow” prescription pads issued by the Department of Health (DOH). These pads, priced at P250 each and containing 50 pages, have often been out of stock, causing delays in treatment.
Under the new rule, physicians can issue prescriptions in triplicate copies using ordinary prescription forms. The first copy goes to the pharmacy, the second stays with the patient, and the third is kept by the prescribing doctor.
Prescription Limits and Guidelines
Each prescription can only contain one dangerous drug or one preparation containing such drugs. Physicians may write multiple prescriptions if multiple drugs are needed. Typically, prescriptions cover a 30-day supply, except for epilepsy and dystonia treatments, which can last up to 60 days.
If a patient requires medication beyond the initial period, doctors may issue supplemental prescriptions within 30 days of the original. They can also provide up to three prescriptions simultaneously, each capped at 30 days supply. Doctors must clearly label the sequence and instructions on when to use each prescription.
Balancing Access and Accountability
The regulation aligns with the World Health Organization’s guidelines during health emergencies, ensuring patients receive regulated therapeutics without compromising control measures. Valenzuela noted, “These safeguards are designed to balance accessibility with proper monitoring and accountability.”
Violations of the Dangerous Drugs Act carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment and hefty fines. Thus, the regulation maintains strict oversight while easing prescription challenges.
Local health leaders point to the regulation as a vital step amid a reported 500-percent rise in HIV infections among Filipino youth. It reflects a patient-centered approach grounded in science and public health priorities.
For more news and updates on dangerous drugs prescription policies, visit Filipinokami.com.
