Google Ads Updates It Prescription Drug Terms Healthcare and Medicines Policy

10/17/25
Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article

TL;DR Summary of Google Ads Updates Prescription Drug Terms Policy

Google Ads is updating its Healthcare and Medicines policy effective October 29, 2025, regarding the use of prescription drug terms. Ads can now include these terms for non-promotional purposes like public health announcements, but keyword targeting still requires certification. Policy changes vary by location, with promotional use allowed in Canada, New Zealand, and the US under specific conditions.

Optimixed’s Overview: Navigating Google Ads’ New Prescription Drug Terms Policy

Key Changes to Google Ads Healthcare Policy

Google Ads has revised its approach to how advertisers can use prescription drug terms in their campaigns. These changes, effective from October 29, 2025, clarify permitted uses of such terms and reinforce certification requirements for keyword targeting.

Details of the Updated Policy

  • Non-Promotional Use Allowed: Advertisers may use prescription drug names in ad text and landing pages for purposes like public health announcements and academic publications without certification.
  • Certification Needed for Keyword Targeting: Despite relaxed rules for ad text, targeting prescription drug terms as keywords still requires official certification.
  • Location-Specific Rules:
    • Canada, New Zealand, United States: Promotional use of prescription drug terms is permitted if compliant with local laws. Certification remains mandatory for keyword targeting and specific business types such as online pharmacies and telemedicine providers.
    • Other Locations: Promotional use is prohibited. Only non-promotional uses are allowed, with certification required for certain businesses to target prescription drug keywords.

Implications for Advertisers

Advertisers must review their campaigns to ensure compliance with these updated guidelines, especially concerning certification and regional restrictions. The policy update aims to balance advertising freedoms with public safety and regulatory compliance in healthcare advertising.