San Marino has updated its list of controlled narcotic and psychotropic substances, bringing the schedules into line with scientific developments and international guidelines. The new framework is set out in Delegated Decree no. 136/2026, published on 10 September, which replaces the previous provisions and lists.
The measure introduces new tables in Annex A, gathering the substances and preparations indicated by international conventions and agreements. “The new structure allows for more precise support of surveillance, control and law enforcement activities,” the official statement reads. The lists can also be updated in line with developments in international agreements and new scientific findings.
Among the key points highlighted is the update concerning substances that have more recently come under scientific and regulatory scrutiny, including new-generation synthetic opioids. The tables also include preparations and medicines used for therapeutic purposes in human and veterinary medicine. For these, the health regulations and prescription rules set out under current legislation for authorised uses remain unchanged.
The update is the result of work involving several San Marino bodies and expertise spanning health, pharmaceutical, environmental, technical, judicial and enforcement fields. The Social Security Institute (ISS), UGRAA, the Gendarmerie and the Department of Justice all took part, alongside the Health Authority, which provided technical input on the classification of substances and their alignment with international conventions.
“The new tabular framework is an important technical tool for making the identification of regulated substances clearer and more precise,” said Tommaso Saporito, Director of the Health Authority. “In a field that is constantly evolving, having access to updated lists that are consistent with international guidance and the latest scientific evidence is essential to support surveillance efforts and help protect public health.”
The decree therefore aims to provide updated reference points also for the bodies responsible for carrying out checks and enforcing the law. “Updating the tables is a significant step for the protection of public health and confirms the value of coordinated work between institutions,” stressed Massimo Andrea Ugolini, Secretary of State for Health and Social Security. “Narcotic and psychotropic substances, particularly new-generation ones, require health systems and competent authorities to remain highly vigilant. The contribution of the various areas of expertise involved allows San Marino to equip itself with more suitable tools, benefiting individual citizens, the San Marino community and the country’s health security.”
On the judicial front, Secretary of State Stefano Canti also weighed in. “This measure strengthens the tools available to the State in a complex area that requires legal precision, timeliness and institutional responsibility,” said Stefano Canti, Secretary of State for Justice, Social Security and Family Affairs. “A clearer, more up-to-date regulatory framework makes it possible to more effectively support the work of oversight bodies and the judicial authority, providing more precise reference points for enforcing the law and combating unlawful activities that are constantly evolving.”
