100+ Free Befähigungsprüfung Drogisten Practice Questions

Prepare for the Befähigungsprüfung Drogisten (Austria) exam with instant access — no signup required.

✓ No registration✓ No credit card✓ No hidden fees✓ Start practicing immediately

100+ Questions

100% Free

Loading practice questions...

2026 Statistics

Key Facts: Befähigungsprüfung Drogisten Exam

GewO § 94 Z 14

Austrian Trade Code Paragraph Regulating the Drugstore Trade (Drogisten)

Gewerbeordnung 1994

BGBl. II Nr. 122/2004

Abgrenzungsverordnung Defining OTC Herbal Medicine Scope for Drugstores

Bundesministerium für Gesundheit / RIS

ChemG 1996 § 35

Statutory Classification of Poisons (Gifte) Under Austrian Chemicals Law

Chemikaliengesetz 1996

01/406 43 43

24/7 Emergency Telephone Line of the Austrian Poison Center (VIZ Wien)

Vergiftungsinformationszentrale Österreich

7 Years

Mandatory Retention Period for Statutory Poison Register (Giftbuch) Records

Giftverordnung 2000 § 7

1/3 of UVB SPF

Minimum UVA Protection Factor Required for EU Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Label

EU Commission Recommendation 2006/647/EC

14 Allergens

Major Food Allergens Requiring Mandatory Consumer Declaration Under LMIV

Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 Annex II

€0

Exam Fee for 1st & 2nd Attempt Under Austrian Federal Master Subsidy Scheme

WKO Meisterprüfungsstellen / BMAW (since 1 Jan 2024)

The Austrian Befähigungsprüfung Drogisten is the statutory trade qualification required to operate a drugstore or act as trade manager under GewO 1994 § 94 Z 14, covering phytopharmacy, toxicology and poison dispensing, chemical safety, cosmetics, food supplements, and commercial trade regulations.

Sample Befähigungsprüfung Drogisten Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your Befähigungsprüfung Drogisten exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1Which preparation method is pharmacologically indicated for preparing an herbal tea from Marshmallow root (Althaeae radix) to extract its mucilage while preventing the unwanted dissolution of starch?

A.Boiling the crushed root vigorously in water for 20 minutes (Decoctum)

B.Cold water maceration for several hours with occasional stirring (Mazerat)

C.Pouring boiling water over the root and steeping covered for 10 minutes (Infusum)

D.High-pressure steam percolation using 96% ethanol

Explanation: Althaeae radix contains both therapeutic mucilages (Schleimstoffe) and high levels of starch (Stärke). A cold maceration (Mazerat) extracts the water-soluble mucilage polysaccharides cleanly without gelatinizing and dissolving the unwanted starch, which would cause turbidity, spoilage, and reduced mucosal coating efficacy.

2What is the primary pharmacological mode of action of herbal drugs rich in tannins (Gerbstoffe), such as Oak bark (Quercus cortex) or Tormentil rhizome (Tormentillae rhizoma)?

A.Astringent and membrane-coating action through protein precipitation on superficial mucosal layers

B.Central nervous system sedation via GABA-A receptor modulation

C.Direct osmotic water retention in the large intestine

D.Selective competitive inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)

Explanation: Tannins (Gerbstoffe) cross-link and precipitate proteins on inflamed mucous membranes and superficial skin layers (adstringierende Wirkung). This forms a protective, coagulated barrier that tightens tissues, seals microcapillaries, reduces inflammatory exudation, and deprives bacteria of a nutrient medium.

3When dispensing St. John's Wort (Hyperici herba) preparations in a drugstore, which critical pharmacological interactions and risks must the Drogist explain to the customer?

A.Severe anticholinergic urinary retention and increased intraocular pressure in open-angle glaucoma

B.Immediate irreversible inhibition of monoamine oxidase-A requiring a strict tyramine-free diet

C.Induction of cytochrome P450 (CYP3A4) and P-glycoprotein leading to reduced blood levels of oral contraceptives and immunosuppressants, alongside photosensitivity

D.Hyperuricemia causing acute gouty arthritis through competitive inhibition of renal uric acid excretion

Explanation: Hyperforin and hypericin in Hypericum perforatum act as potent inducers of hepatic cytochrome P450 enzymes (particularly CYP3A4) and the intestinal efflux transporter P-glycoprotein. This significantly accelerates the metabolism and clearance of co-administered drugs such as oral hormonal contraceptives (risk of breakthrough ovulation/pregnancy), cyclosporine, anticoagulants (phenprocoumon), and HIV protease inhibitors. In addition, hypericins can cause phototoxic skin reactions (Photosensibilisierung) upon UV exposure.

4What is the therapeutic limitation and statutory guidance for anthranoid-containing herbal laxatives such as Senna leaves (Sennae folium) and Buckthorn bark (Frangulae cortex)?

A.They must be taken continuously for at least 6 months to restore healthy colonic peristalsis

B.They act exclusively by forming bulk gel in the stomach and must be taken with 10 mL of water only

C.They are safe for unrestricted use during all trimesters of pregnancy and lactation without limitation

D.They are stimulant laxatives restricted to short-term use (max 1–2 weeks) due to electrolyte loss (especially potassium) and bowel habituation

Explanation: Anthranoid derivatives (such as sennosides and frangulins) are converted by colon microbiota into active rhein-anthrones, which inhibit sodium/water reabsorption and stimulate active chloride secretion while increasing motility. Chronic use causes loss of electrolytes (particularly potassium / Hypokaliämie), which paradoxically worsens constipation, aggravates cardiac glycoside toxicity, and can lead to Pseudomelanosis coli. Therefore, European and Austrian monograph guidelines restrict their use to occasional, short-term treatment (maximum 1–2 weeks).

5Which active components are responsible for the distinctive blue color of steam-distilled Chamomile essential oil (Matricariae aetheroleum) and its antiphlogistic properties?

A.Chamazulene (formed from matricin during distillation) and (-)-alpha-bisabolol

B.Rutin and isoquercitrin

C.Valepotriates and isovaleric acid

D.Ginkgolides A, B, and C

Explanation: German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla / Matricariae flos) contains the sesquiterpene lactone matricin as a natural precursor. During steam distillation, matricin undergoes thermal degradation and decarboxylation to form chamazulene, which imparts an intense deep blue color to the essential oil. Together with (-)-alpha-bisabolol and bisabolol oxides, chamazulene provides strong anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, and tissue-regenerating properties.

6Why is the direct topical application of Peppermint oil (Menthae piperitae aetheroleum) strictly contraindicated on the facial area or near the nose of infants and toddlers under 2 years of age?

A.It causes immediate permanent tooth enamel demineralization

B.Menthol can trigger severe reflex laryngospasm (Kratschmer reflex) leading to acute respiratory arrest

C.It triggers immediate systemic hypercalcemia and renal stone precipitation

D.It converts topically into carcinogenic nitroso compounds within 15 minutes

Explanation: High concentrations of menthol and volatile cineole near the nostrils or upper respiratory tract of infants and young children can stimulate sensory cold receptors and trigeminal nerve endings in the nasopharynx, triggering the Kratschmer reflex (glottal spasm / Stimmritzenkrampf), bronchospasm, and sudden respiratory arrest.

7What is the active antimicrobial mechanism and key counseling requirement for Bearberry leaves (Uvae ursi folium) when used for uncomplicated lower urinary tract discomfort?

A.Direct acidification of urine to pH 3.0 through oxalic acid precipitation

B.Formation of an insoluble silicon dioxide film over bladder epithelial cells

C.Hydrolysis of arbutin by colonic bacteria into hydroquinone, which is absorbed, conjugated, and enzymatically cleaved in alkaline urine to exert antibacterial effects; therapy must not exceed 1 week (max 5 times/year)

D.Irreversible blockade of bacterial ribosomes by volatile sulfur mustard oils

Explanation: Arbutin (a phenolic glucoside in Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) is hydrolyzed in the gut to hydroquinone, absorbed, and conjugated in the liver with glucuronic acid/sulfate. In the urinary tract, under alkaline urine conditions (pH >= 7.0–8.0), bacterial enzymes or alkaline pH release free hydroquinone, which exerts potent local antibacterial action against uropathogens like E. coli. Because free hydroquinone is potentially hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic in high doses, use is limited to a maximum of 1 week at a time, up to 5 times per year.

8What is the primary therapeutic indication and constituent group of Hawthorn leaf with flower (Crataegi folium cum flore)?

A.Support of declining cardiac performance in mild congestive heart failure (NYHA Class I to II), mediated by oligomeric procyanidins (OPC) and flavonoids

B.Acute hypertensive crisis through direct intravenous calcium channel blockade

C.Eradication of Helicobacter pylori infections in gastric peptic ulcers

D.Emergency reversal of cardiac glycoside intoxication

Explanation: Crataegus species (C. monogyna and C. laevigata) contain oligomeric procyanidins (OPC), hyperoside, and vitexin derivatives. These compounds exert positive inotropic, positive dromotropic, and peripheral/coronary vasodilatory actions. It is approved as a traditional herbal medicinal product for mild, age-related declining cardiac output (NYHA Stage I to II) and requires regular administration over at least 6–8 weeks.

9Which herbal drug is recognized in pharmacognosy for its distinctive unpleasant odor caused by isovaleric acid and is indicated for mild nervous tension and sleep onset difficulties?

A.Rosmarini folium (Rosemary leaf)

B.Foeniculi amari fructus (Bitter fennel fruit)

C.Salviae officinalis folium (Sage leaf)

D.Valerianae radix (Valerian root)

Explanation: Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) contains essential oils, sesquiterpenes (valerenic acid, acetoxyvalerenic acid), and iridoids (valepotriates). During drying and storage, enzymatic degradation releases volatile isovaleric acid, which causes its pungent, characteristic odor. It interacts with central GABAergic neurotransmission to promote relaxation and sleep onset.

10What are the primary active constituents and pharmacological actions of Thyme herb (Thymi herba) in cough and bronchitis preparations?

A.Pyrrolizidine alkaloids causing bronchodilation via vagal nerve stimulation

B.Essential oils containing thymol and carvacrol providing secretomotoric, bronchospasmolytic, and antibacterial effects

C.Saponin aglycones acting as central antitussive opioid receptor agonists

D.Mucilage carbohydrates inhibiting pulmonary surfactant synthesis

Explanation: Thymus vulgaris contains volatile monoterpene phenols, primarily thymol and carvacrol, along with flavonoids and rosmarinic acid. Thymol stimulates ciliary movement in the bronchial epithelium (secretomotoric), liquefies thick mucus (secretolytic), relieves smooth muscle spasms in bronchial walls (bronchospasmolytic), and exerts direct antibacterial action against respiratory pathogens.

About the Befähigungsprüfung Drogisten Exam

The Befähigungsprüfung Drogisten is the statutory trade competence examination in Austria required to establish an independent drugstore business (reglementiertes Gewerbe under § 94 Z 14 GewO 1994) or serve as a designated trade manager (gewerberechtlicher Geschäftsführer). Governed by the Austrian Trade Code, the Drogisten-Verordnung (BGBl. II Nr. 130/2003), the Abgrenzungsverordnung (BGBl. II Nr. 122/2004 as amended), the Chemikaliengesetz 1996, the Giftverordnung 2000, the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, and the LMSVG, this examination certifies mastery across phytotherapy, pharmacology, chemical safety, toxicology, cosmetic formulations, dietary supplements, and retail trade law. This practice bank offers an English-language MCQ study adaptation preserving all Austrian statutory terminology, botanical names, and chemical safety standards.

Assessment

Structured according to the Drogisten-Befähigungsprüfungsordnung under GewO 1994 § 94 Z 14 and Drogisten-Verordnung (BGBl. II Nr. 130/2003). Modul 1: Fachlich schriftliche Prüfung (botany, phytopharmacy, chemistry, hazardous substances, cosmetics, dietetics, and relevant legislation). Modul 2: Fachlich mündliche Prüfung (case-based customer advisory simulations, poison law, toxicology, and regulatory compliance). Modul 3: Ausbilderprüfung (trainer examination for apprentices). Modul 4: Unternehmerprüfung (business and legal management, unless exempted by prior accredited qualifications).

Time Limit

Written Module 1: typically 4 to 5 hours covering technical theory and legal case problems; Oral Module 2: 30 to 60 minutes before the official WKO examination commission

Passing Score

School grade scale 'Sehr gut' (1) to 'Genügend' (4) across all subjects in each module

Exam Fee

Free for the 1st & 2nd attempt at Modules 1, 2, and 4 (federally funded master and competence exam scheme via BMAW / WKO since 1 Jan 2024); third and subsequent attempts subject to provincial WKO fee schedules (WKO Meisterprüfungsstellen / Bundesgremium des Handels mit Arzneimitteln, Drogerie- und Parfümeriewaren sowie Chemikalien und Farben)

Befähigungsprüfung Drogisten Exam Content Outline

20% of this practice bank

Botany, Pharmacognosy & Phytopharmacy

Herbal drugs (Drogenkunde), active plant constituents (alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, essential oils, saponins, mucilages, anthranoids), preparation methods (Infus, Decoct, Mazerat), Austrian and European Pharmacopoeia standards (ÖAB / Ph. Eur.), HMPC monographs, and the Austrian Abgrenzungsverordnung (BGBl. II Nr. 122/2004 as amended).

20% of this practice bank

Pharmacology, Toxicology & Austrian Poison Law

Mode of action of over-the-counter (OTC) health products, Austrian poison law in the Chemikaliengesetz 1996 (ChemG 1996) Abschnitt III and Giftverordnung 2000, poison permits (Giftbezugsbewilligung: Giftbezugsschein, Giftbezugslizenz, Giftbezugsbescheinigung), Sachkunde requirements, locked storage, Giftbuch records, and poison center protocols (Vergiftungsinformationszentrale VIZ Wien).

18% of this practice bank

Chemicals, Hazardous Substances, Biocides & Plant Protection

CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (GHS pictograms, signal words, H/P-phrases), REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (Safety Data Sheet / SDB), technical chemicals in drugstore trade (acids, bases, solvents, hydrogen peroxide and EU explosives precursors rules), Biocidal Products Regulation (EU) No 528/2012, and Plant Protection Products Act (Pflanzenschutzmittelgesetz 2011).

16% of this practice bank

Cosmetic Products, Dermatology & Personal Care

EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, CPNP notification, Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR / Sicherheitsbericht), INCI nomenclature, PAO symbol, skin anatomy and physiology (epidermis, acid mantle, skin types), emulsions (O/W vs W/O), UV radiation and broad-spectrum sun protection, active cosmetic ingredients, hair care, and dental hygiene.

14% of this practice bank

Dietary Supplements, Food Safety & LMSVG

Lebensmittelsicherheits- und Verbraucherschutzgesetz (LMSVG), Nahrungsergänzungsmittelverordnung (NEMV), Health Claims Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 (prohibition of medicinal claims on foods), Novel Food Regulation (EU) 2015/2283, LMIV (EU) No 1169/2011 allergen labelling, vitamins and mineral interactions, probiotics, and retail hygiene (HACCP).

12% of this practice bank

Sales Advisory, Shop Management, Safety & Trade Law

Gewerbeordnung 1994 (GewO 1994) § 94 Z 14 (reglementiertes Gewerbe), commercial drugstore scope and pharmacy monopoly boundaries (§ 59 AMG), statutory customer advisory duties (Beratungspflicht), hazardous material retail storage regulations (VbF), dangerous goods transport exemptions (ADR Limited Quantities), batch recalls, and waste management (AWG).

How to Pass the Befähigungsprüfung Drogisten Exam

What You Need to Know

Passing score: School grade scale 'Sehr gut' (1) to 'Genügend' (4) across all subjects in each module
Assessment: Structured according to the Drogisten-Befähigungsprüfungsordnung under GewO 1994 § 94 Z 14 and Drogisten-Verordnung (BGBl. II Nr. 130/2003). Modul 1: Fachlich schriftliche Prüfung (botany, phytopharmacy, chemistry, hazardous substances, cosmetics, dietetics, and relevant legislation). Modul 2: Fachlich mündliche Prüfung (case-based customer advisory simulations, poison law, toxicology, and regulatory compliance). Modul 3: Ausbilderprüfung (trainer examination for apprentices). Modul 4: Unternehmerprüfung (business and legal management, unless exempted by prior accredited qualifications).
Time limit: Written Module 1: typically 4 to 5 hours covering technical theory and legal case problems; Oral Module 2: 30 to 60 minutes before the official WKO examination commission
Exam fee: Free for the 1st & 2nd attempt at Modules 1, 2, and 4 (federally funded master and competence exam scheme via BMAW / WKO since 1 Jan 2024); third and subsequent attempts subject to provincial WKO fee schedules

Keys to Passing

Work through all 100 available questions
Review every answer and explanation
Track weak areas and revisit them
Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

Befähigungsprüfung Drogisten Study Tips from Top Performers

1Master the Austrian Abgrenzungsverordnung (BGBl. II Nr. 122/2004 as amended): Memorize which herbal drugs are released for over-the-counter sale in drugstores, their official pharmacopoeial names (ÖAB / Ph. Eur.), active constituents, approved indications, and mandatory packaging and labelling specifications.

2Understand herbal drug preparation chemistry: Differentiate clearly between cold macerates (Mazerate) for mucilage-containing drugs (e.g., Althaeae radix) to avoid extracting unwanted starch, infusions (Aufgüsse) for delicate leaves and flowers, and decoctions (Abkochungen) for woody barks, roots, and rhizomes.

3Memorize the Austrian poison trade workflow under ChemG 1996 and Giftverordnung 2000: Know the criteria for Gifte (§ 35 ChemG), the distinction between Giftbezugsschein (single purchase) and Giftbezugslizenz (recurring), the Giftbezugsbescheinigung for commercial users, required entries in the Giftbuch, locked storage rules, and the 7-year archiving mandate.

4Know GHS/CLP classification and Safety Data Sheet (SDB) structure: Learn the 9 GHS pictograms, signal words (Gefahr vs. Achtung), H- and P-phrase logic, and the 16 mandatory sections of a REACH-compliant SDS.

5Review EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 and dermatology: Master INCI declaration rules, PAO symbol calculation, UVA/UVB protection ratios (broad-spectrum UVA logo requiring >= 1/3 of UVB SPF), emulsion types (O/W vs. W/O), and skin barrier physiology (acid mantle at pH 5.5).

6Study food supplement regulations under LMSVG and NEMV: Understand the strict prohibition of health-disease claims (krankheitsbezogene Angaben) under the Health Claims Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 and the 14 mandatory food allergens under LMIV (EU) No 1169/2011.

7Learn emergency response and toxicology protocols: Memorize the direct contact number and operational procedures for the Vienna Poison Information Center (Vergiftungsinformationszentrale VIZ Wien: 01/406 43 43), including the contraindication of induced vomiting after corrosive or foaming agent ingestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Befähigungsprüfung Drogisten in Austria?

It is the official trade competence examination in Austria administered by the WKO Meisterprüfungsstellen under § 94 Z 14 of the Gewerbeordnung 1994. Successfully passing this examination proves the professional qualification necessary to obtain a trade license (Gewerbeberechtigung) for operating a drugstore (Drogerie) or acting as a gewerberechtlicher Geschäftsführer.

What products are Austrian Drogisten legally permitted to sell?

Drogisten have a specialized statutory product scope including cosmetic products, personal hygiene goods, perfumes, dietetics and dietary supplements, technical chemicals, biocides, plant protection products, household cleaning agents, and a defined list of over-the-counter herbal medicinal substances and tea blends explicitly authorized outside of pharmacies under the Austrian Abgrenzungsverordnung (BGBl. II Nr. 122/2004 as amended).

How does Austrian poison law (ChemG 1996 / Giftverordnung 2000) apply to Drogisten?

Under the Chemikaliengesetz 1996 (Abschnitt III) and the Giftverordnung 2000, Drogisten holding certified competence (Sachkunde) are legally authorized ex lege to stock and dispense regulated poisons (acutely toxic category 1–3 substances). Dispensing requires strict identity checks, verification of the buyer's authorization (Giftbezugsbewilligung as a Giftbezugsschein or Giftbezugslizenz, or Giftbezugsbescheinigung for commercial entities), segregated locked storage (Giftgasschrank), and mandatory entry in the statutory poison register (Giftbuch / Giftaufzeichnungen) with a 7-year retention period.

What are the rules regarding medicinal product sales in drugstores under the Abgrenzungsverordnung?

Under § 59 of the Austrian Arzneimittelgesetz (AMG), medicinal products are generally reserved for pharmacies (Apothekenmonopol). However, § 59 Abs. 3 AMG and the Abgrenzungsverordnung permit Drogisten to sell specific herbal single drugs (Ganzdrogen / geschnittene Drogen) and approved traditional preparations that present no public health hazard when used as intended, provided they meet European or Austrian Pharmacopoeia (ÖAB / Ph. Eur.) quality standards.

What examination fees apply to the Befähigungsprüfung Drogisten?

Since 1 January 2024, the Austrian Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy (BMAW) and the WKO provide 100% federal funding covering exam fees for the first and second examination attempts for all master and competence modules (Modul 1 Fachlich schriftlich, Modul 2 Fachlich mündlich, and Modul 4 Unternehmerprüfung). Third and subsequent attempts require payment according to standard WKO fee schedules.

How is this practice question bank structured relative to the official exam?

The official WKO examination is conducted entirely in German and comprises written technical papers and an oral commission examination. This practice question bank is an English-language study adaptation comprising 100 multiple-choice questions designed to test and reinforce core theoretical principles, Austrian statutory requirements, botanical taxonomy, toxicology, chemical handling, and customer advisory guidelines.