Verify the pharmacy’s license with your provincial regulatory authority. Each province has a college of pharmacists; their websites provide tools to check registration status.
Checking for Accreditation
Look for accreditation from reputable organizations like the Canadian International Pharmacy Association (CIPA). CIPA-accredited pharmacies meet high standards for online safety and medication practices. Check their website for a list of members.
Secure your personal information by only using pharmacies with HTTPS encryption. The padlock icon in your browser’s address bar confirms secure connections.
Ensuring Secure Transactions
Examine the pharmacy’s privacy policy. A clear policy outlining how they handle your personal data demonstrates a commitment to protecting your information. Avoid pharmacies with vague or missing privacy policies.
Read customer reviews. Authentic reviews on independent platforms can provide valuable insight into a pharmacy’s reliability and customer service. Be aware that some reviews may be fabricated.
Contacting the Pharmacy
Contact the pharmacy directly. A legitimate pharmacy will readily provide contact information, including phone numbers and physical addresses. Absence of this information warrants caution.
Understand their return policy. A fair return policy protects you if there are issues with your order. Review the policy carefully before placing an order.
Medication Verification
Check the medication packaging upon arrival. Verify the authenticity of the packaging and any included documentation, making sure the medication’s details accurately match your prescription. Report any discrepancies immediately.
Final Checks Before Ordering
Confirm the pharmacy’s pricing transparency. Avoid suspiciously low prices, which might indicate counterfeit medication. Prices should be clearly listed and match your prescription requirements.
Review all terms and conditions before purchasing. A well-structured website will have easily accessible terms and conditions, outlining the pharmacy’s responsibilities and yours.
