Speed Over Safety? 10-Minute Medicine Deliveries by Blinkit and Zepto Raise Concerns

Balasahana Suresh
Quick commerce platforms such as Blinkit and Zepto have recently expanded their services to include prescription medicine deliveries, promising delivery times as short as 10 minutes. Both companies launched their quick-commerce pharmacy services earlier in 2025, tapping into India’s growing demand for convenience and instant access to essential drugs.

While the model caters to busy urban populations and those in urgent need of medication, it has sparked serious concerns among pharmacists, doctors, and public health experts. Critics question whether the rush to deliver medicines in record time could compromise safety, accuracy, and regulatory compliance.

Key Concerns Raised:

  • Prescription Verification: Rapid deliveries may limit the time for proper validation of prescriptions, increasing the risk of dispensing errors.
  • Drug Storage: Certain medicines require temperature-controlled storage. Quick delivery models may struggle to maintain these standards consistently.
  • Lack of Pharmacist Oversight: While traditional pharmacies have trained professionals overseeing each transaction, ultra-fast delivery systems may not always ensure the same level of supervision.
  • Public health Risks: Mislabeling, incorrect dosage, or delivery of the wrong medicine could have serious consequences, especially for critical or chronic medications.
Healthcare experts urge a balanced approach that prioritizes patient safety while embracing technological innovations. “Convenience should never come at the cost of accuracy and health,” says Dr. [Name], a leading public health specialist.

Quick commerce companies argue that their systems include digital verification, trained personnel, and strict packaging protocols to minimize risks. However, regulators and industry observers continue to stress the importance of robust monitoring and strict compliance with pharmacy guidelines.

The debate highlights a larger question about how technology-driven convenience intersects with healthcare safety. While fast delivery of medicines can be life-saving in emergencies, ensuring proper protocols, professional oversight, and accountability is essential to prevent errors that could put patients at risk.

As Blinkit, Zepto, and other quick commerce players expand their pharmacy services, public health advocates are calling for stringent regulations, audits, and transparency to ensure that speed does not compromise safety.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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