Health Content and Services

Changes are coming to this article

This article will be updated with recently announced changes.

We’re adding a new Health apps policy under “Health Content and Services” to introduce new requirements for apps that fall under the Health apps categories. We’re also updating the policy to reflect current public health guidance. (effective May 31, 2024)

To enhance the visibility and management of health-related apps on Google Play, we’re introducing a Health Apps console declaration. Apps with health or medical-related features or functionality must attest to this on Play Console. Learn more (effective May 31, 2024)

To preview the updated “Health Content and Services” article, visit this page.

We don't allow apps that expose users to harmful health content and services.

If your app contains or promotes health content and services, you must ensure your app is compliant with any applicable laws and regulations.

Prescription Drugs

We do not allow apps that facilitate the sale or purchase of prescription drugs without a prescription.

Unapproved Substances

Google Play doesn't allow apps that promote or sell unapproved substances, irrespective of any claims of legality.

Examples of common violations

All items on this non-exhaustive list of prohibited pharmaceuticals and supplements.
Products that contain ephedra.
Products containing human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in relation to weight loss or weight control, or when promoted in conjunction with anabolic steroids.
Herbal and dietary supplements with active pharmaceutical or dangerous ingredients.
False or misleading health claims, including claims implying that a product is as effective as prescription drugs or controlled substances.
Non-government approved products that are marketed in a way that implies that they're safe or effective for use in preventing, curing, or treating a particular disease or ailment.
Products that have been subject to any government or regulatory action or warning.
Products with names that are confusingly similar to an unapproved pharmaceutical or supplement or controlled substance.

For additional information on the unapproved or misleading pharmaceuticals and supplements that we monitor, please visit www.legitscript.com.

Health Misinformation

We don’t allow apps containing misleading health claims that contradict existing medical consensus, or can cause harm to users.

Examples of common violations

Misleading claims about vaccines, such as that vaccines can alter one’s DNA.
Advocacy of harmful, unapproved treatments.
Advocacy of other harmful health practices, such as conversion therapy.

COVID-19 Restrictions

Apps must follow the Requirements for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) apps article.

Medical Functionalities

We don’t allow apps that feature medical or health-related functionalities that are misleading or potentially harmful. For example, we do not allow apps that claim to have oximetry functionality that is solely app-based. Oximeter apps must be supported by external hardware, wearable, or dedicated smartphone sensors designed to support oximetry functionality. These supported apps must also contain disclaimers in the metadata stating that they are not intended for medical use, are only designed for general fitness and wellness purposes, are not a medical device, and must properly disclose the compatible hardware model/device model.

Payments - Clinical Services

Transactions involving regulated clinical services should not use Google Play’s billing system. For more information, see Understanding Google Play’s Payments policy.

Health Connect Data

Data accessed through Health Connect Permissions is regarded as personal and sensitive user data subject to the User Data policy, and is subjected to additional requirements.

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