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Mon, Dec 29 2025
Raju Karn
The healthcare sector in India is rapidly going digital, and online pharmacies are at the center of this revolution. With increased demand for doorstep medicine delivery, launching an e-pharmacy can be highly profitable — but only if done legally and compliantly.In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting an online pharmacy license in India, including regulatory authorities, eligibility, documentation, CDSCO compliance, and key legal requirements as per 2025 rules.
An online pharmacy, also known as an e-pharmacy, is a digital platform that allows users to purchase medicines, healthcare products, and devices online through websites or apps. These businesses must follow strict regulatory norms to ensure public health and safety.
Online pharmacies are regulated under:
-Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940-Information Technology Act, 2000-Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945-Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) guidelines-Draft E-Pharmacy Rules (2018, pending finalization)Despite pending legislation, all online pharmacies must comply with existing offline drug rules, and obtain necessary licenses to operate legally.
To legally start an online pharmacy in India, you must obtain:
For businesses that store and dispatch medicines
Mandatory for sale of goods and filing returns
Legal business structure with PAN, TAN, and incorporation certificate
A registered pharmacist must verify and dispense all prescriptions
For listing on national e-pharmacy platforms and approval for online medicine sales.
- Incorporate a Pvt. Ltd, LLP, or Proprietorship- Get PAN, TAN, and Bank Account
- Set up a compliant warehouse with cold storage if needed
- Install refrigeration for temperature-sensitive medicines
He/she will verify e-prescriptions before dispatch
- Submit application (Form 20/21) to State Drug Control Dept- Include pharmacist details, premises layout, and rent/ownership proof
- Register as a distributor/seller with CDSCO portal- Mention APIs, drugs sold, and pharmacist-in-charge
- Secure HTTPS domain
- Integrate prescription upload and order tracking
- Ensure pharmacist verification before delivery
- Follow data privacy under IT Act & Rules
- Clearly mention prescription requirements, return policy, and helplineDocuments Required for Online Pharmacy License
1. Medicines must not be sold without prescription2. Prescription must be verified by a licensed pharmacist3. Narcotic and Schedule X drugs cannot be sold online4. All sales and invoices must be stored digitally5. Helpline number must be available for customer support6. Pharmacy name and license number must be displayed on the website7. Packaging must follow Drugs & Cosmetics Rules8. Customer data must be protected as per IT Act & Data Privacy Rules
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) ensures compliance, inspections, and drug safety for online players. As of 2025, online pharmacy platforms are expected to:
- Register with CDSCO
- Maintain traceability of each drug sold
- Follow all guidelines under the proposed E-Pharmacy Rules
- Report adverse reactions or recalls if needed
Operating without a valid Drug License can result in:- Imprisonment (up to 3 years)- Fines (₹50,000 or more)- Seizure of stock and website shutdown- Blacklisting from CDSCO and State Drug Departments
Setting up an online pharmacy requires expert coordination with CDSCO, State Drug Departments, and technical setup. PSR Compliance offers:- Expert consultation
- License application filing
- Pharmacist onboarding support
- Documentation assistance
- Website/app compliance review
Q1. Can I run an online pharmacy without a physical store?🅰️ No, you need a registered premise with a Drug License for storage.
Q2. Is pharmacist verification compulsory?🅰️ Yes, every order must be approved by a registered pharmacist.
Q3. Do I need CDSCO approval to sell online?🅰️ Yes, CDSCO registration is mandatory under current norms.
Q4. Can I sell Ayurvedic medicines through my online pharmacy?🅰️ Yes, but you’ll need Ayush License separately.
Q5. How long does it take to get a license?🅰️ On average, 30–60 days, depending on the state and application quality.