Check the pharmacy’s license and registration details. Legitimate online pharmacies will display their license number prominently, often with links to verifying authorities. Look for a physical address and contact information; avoid sites with only PO boxes or vague locations.
Checking Accreditation and Seals
Scrutinize the website for accreditation seals from organizations like the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) or similar reputable bodies. These seals indicate adherence to specific standards of practice and safety. However, remember that the presence of a seal doesn’t guarantee legitimacy – independently verify the seal’s authenticity on the accrediting body’s website.
Examine the website’s security features. Secure websites use HTTPS (look for the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar). This encryption protects your personal and financial information during transactions.
Review customer testimonials and online reviews. Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback. Consider the overall pattern of reviews rather than focusing on isolated instances. Multiple consistent negative reviews regarding service or product quality should raise red flags.
Contact the pharmacy directly. Test their responsiveness and professionalism. A legitimate pharmacy will readily provide answers to your questions and address concerns regarding their operations and licensing.
Beware of suspiciously low prices. Unusually cheap medications may be counterfeit or substandard. Legitimate pharmacies will have competitive, but not abnormally low, pricing.
