What the Green, Blue, and Red Circle Logos on Medicine Packaging Mean

Have you ever noticed the colored circle logo on medicine packaging? This logo marks the drug class according to regulations in Indonesia, so the public can tell whether a medicine can be bought over the counter or requires a doctor’s prescription.

A green circle with a black outline indicates an over-the-counter medicine, which is relatively safe and can be bought without a prescription. A blue circle with a black outline indicates a limited over-the-counter medicine, which can also be bought without a prescription but comes with special warning labels on the packaging that you must pay attention to.

Meanwhile, a red circle with a black outline and the letter K in the middle indicates a prescription-only (hard) medicine. Medicines in this class may only be obtained with a doctor’s prescription, because their use needs supervision to prevent side effects and misuse.

Although over-the-counter and limited over-the-counter medicines can be bought on your own, always use them according to the directions and stop if your symptoms do not improve. For prescription-only medicines, make sure you have a valid prescription. Prescriptions from doctors on DokterIN can be redeemed at partner pharmacies so the medicine you receive matches your needs.