Check for a valid license and accreditation. Look for a physical address and contact information readily available on their website. Avoid sites that lack transparency.
Verifying Legitimate Operations
- Verify the pharmacy’s license with your state board of pharmacy or a comparable regulatory body. Use their official website; don’t rely on information provided by the online pharmacy itself. Confirm the pharmacy’s registration with the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites (VIPPS) program. This is a significant indicator of legitimacy. Examine the website’s security measures. Look for “https” in the URL and a padlock icon in the address bar. This indicates a secure connection, protecting your personal information. Read customer reviews from multiple sources. Be wary of websites with only overwhelmingly positive reviews; balanced feedback is more credible.
Ensuring Secure Transactions
Secure payment methods are key. Reputable pharmacies generally accept major credit cards and offer secure payment gateways. Avoid pharmacies requesting payment through wire transfers or unusual methods.
Protecting Your Health
Consult your doctor before ordering medications online. They can advise on the safety and suitability of the medication and the pharmacy. Never purchase medications from websites that don’t require a prescription. This is a major red flag indicating illegal activity. Compare prices across multiple verified pharmacies, but prioritize safety and legitimacy over price alone.
Additional Red Flags
- Grammar and spelling errors on the website. Promises of unusually low prices or extremely fast shipping. Absence of a pharmacist or doctor to answer your questions. A lack of information regarding return policies.
Prioritize your health and safety. Thoroughly investigate any online pharmacy before making a purchase.
