Check the pharmacy’s website for licensing information. Look for a clearly displayed license number and the issuing authority. You should easily find this information in the footer or a dedicated “About Us” section.
State Boards of Pharmacy
Verify the license directly with the relevant State Board of Pharmacy. Each US state has its own board; use a search engine to locate the board for the pharmacy’s claimed location. Their websites usually provide tools to check license status and validity.
Accreditation Agencies
Search for accreditation from recognized organizations like the Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites (VIPPS) program. VIPPS accreditation demonstrates a commitment to online pharmacy best practices and patient safety. A VIPPS seal should be prominently displayed if applicable. Always cross-reference the accreditation information on the pharmacy’s website with the accreditation agency’s website.
Contact the pharmacy directly. Ask about their licensing and accreditation. A legitimate pharmacy will readily provide this information. Compare the information they provide to what you’ve found independently. Discrepancies are a major red flag.
