ANVISA Allows Medicine Sales on Major Apps

What Did ANVISA Actually Decide?

Brazil's health regulator ANVISA revoked measures that had previously prohibited large digital platforms — including iFood, Rappi, Mercado Livre, Submarino and Americanas — from selling and advertising medicines. The reversal marks a significant shift in how pharmaceuticals can be marketed and delivered through e-commerce in Brazil.

Which Platforms Are Affected?

The decision directly impacts some of Brazil's biggest and most-used digital marketplaces and delivery apps. iFood and Rappi, primarily known for food delivery, as well as major e-commerce players like Mercado Livre, Submarino and Americanas, can now operate in the medicine sales space under Brazil's regulatory framework.

What Does This Mean for Online Shoppers?

For consumers and expats living in Brazil, this opens the door to purchasing medicines through familiar apps and websites. Previously, these platforms were barred from selling or advertising pharmaceutical products. The revocation means companies must still comply with existing Brazilian pharmacy and health legislation, but the blanket prohibition on digital platform sales has been lifted.

What Are the Implications for E-Commerce Sellers?

For sellers operating on these platforms, the decision creates a potential new product category. However, pharmaceutical sales in Brazil remain highly regulated — sellers must ensure compliance with ANVISA's broader licensing and product registration rules. This is not a deregulation of medicines; it is a removal of a platform-specific ban.

What Happens Next?

Platforms and sellers will need to align their operations with existing health regulations. Consumers should verify that any medicines purchased online come from licensed pharmacies and carry proper ANVISA registration numbers.