Pharmaceuticals

The aim of health policies regarding pharmaceuticals is to promote correct use of medicinal products. Our goals are low pharmaceutical prices and reliable access to efficient medicinal products independent of patients' ability to pay.

The Norwegian Medicines Agency approves medicines and supervises production, trials and marketing.
The Norwegian Labour and Welfare Organisation (NAV) is responsible for reimbursement and medical benefits.
The pharmacies are responsible for reliable distribution of pharmaceuticals and contribute to correct use.

Report on pharmaceutical prices

English translation of a recent report on pharmaceutical prices in Norway compared to prices in nine reference countries.

On course towards more correct use of medicine

Report No. 18 to the Storting (2004–2005) concerns how the authorities’ measures in the area of medicinal products may be planned in order to improve the current use of medicine.

Marketing authorisation of medicinal products

A medicinal product may only be placed on the market in the European Economic Area (EEA) when a marketing authorisation has been issued.

Norwegian regulation of pharmaceuticals is harmonised with EU regulation

The basis for harmonisation of regulations are the EEA Agreement and the EEA Joint Committee Decisions.

Medical devices

Medical devices range from simple bandages and spectacles, through implantable devices and equipment, to diagnose and screen, to sophisticated minimal invasive surgery equipment.