Alza proposes prescription drug lockers, sparking legal clash with Czech health ministry

Alza announced a pilot service that would enable selected customers in Prague to receive prescription drugs from its network of AlzaBox lockers after granting a power of attorney to the company. The Ministry of Health responded that the scheme resembles prohibited parcel dispensing of prescription medication, which one outlet law does not allow, and that the rules cannot be bypassed by labeling the service as assisted dispensing.

Minister Adam Vojtěch said a legislative amendment is being prepared to define clear conditions for such deliveries. The Czech Pharmacists' Chamber and individual pharmacists warned that the model could increase medication errors and expose pharmacies to sanctions, including fines up to two million crowns. Alza maintains that a pharmacist will still verify each prescription and that the service will be limited to suitable drugs and patients.