In principle, drugs may only be sold in pharmacies. However, there are exceptions for so-called over-the-counter drugs. These can be, for example, teas, ointments or tablets containing herbal substances such as valerian. If you want to sell these products in your store, an employee with proven expertise must always be on site. You can demonstrate this expertise by taking the exam.

The examination determines whether you have sufficient knowledge and skills about the proper filling, packaging, labeling, storage and marketing of over-the-counter medicinal products, possible dangers in the event of an overdose of the active ingredients, as well as knowledge about the legal regulations for handling and selling these medicinal products.

In detail, it must be determined whether you

• overlook the range of over-the-counter medicines,
• know the plants and chemicals commonly used in over-the-counter medicines, as well as the dosage forms,
• can recognize over-the-counter drugs that are obviously mixed up, adulterated or spoiled,
• be able to store over-the-counter medicines properly, in particular taking into account the storage temperature and expiry date,
• have the knowledge required for the proper filling, packaging and dispensing of over-the-counter medicines,
• know the hazards associated with the improper handling of over-the-counter medications,
• know the provisions of the law on medicinal products and the law on advertising in the field of medicine that apply to over-the-counter medicinal products.

The questionnaire includes 50 multiple-choice questions and 5 open-ended questions. You should prepare for the exam in terms of content, for example by attending a preparatory course. However, this is not a prerequisite for registering for the exam.

With a university degree or vocational training in the field of pharmacy, you may already have the expertise and do not need to prove it by taking a separate exam; you can find more on this in the additional information.