Storage and control

The production, trade, purchase and distribution of narcotics are strictly regulated. Anyone wishing to manufacture, process or trade in narcotics in Liechtenstein requires a permit from the Office of Public Health.

Pharmacists and physicians receive authorization to obtain and dispense narcotics with their professional license.

Narcotics are kept separate and under lock and key from all other therapeutic products and goods. In addition, physicians and pharmacies must keep records of each narcotic and provide the Office of Public Health with a statement of receipts, disbursements and inventory at the end of the year.

In close cooperation with Switzerland, the Office of Public Health monitors national traffic in narcotics and psychotropic (i.e., affect mental functions, affect mood and behavior) substances and precursors (are not themselves narcotics, but can be processed into them). Liechtenstein is integrated into the Swiss control system for narcotics. This allows possible abuses to be detected and, on the other hand, informative consumer statistics to be compiled.