Verify the pharmacy’s registration with the provincial regulatory body. Each province maintains a list of licensed pharmacies; check these lists carefully.
- British Columbia: College of Pharmacists of British Columbia Alberta: Alberta College of Pharmacy Saskatchewan: Saskatchewan College of Pharmacy Professionals Manitoba: Manitoba Pharmacy Association Ontario: Ontario College of Pharmacists Quebec: Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec New Brunswick: New Brunswick Association of Pharmacists Nova Scotia: Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists Prince Edward Island: Prince Edward Island Association of Pharmacists Newfoundland and Labrador: Newfoundland and Labrador Pharmacy Board
Look for a physical address and contact information. Legitimate pharmacies will provide a clear address and phone number, readily available on their website. Avoid those lacking this basic information.
Check for secure payment options. Secure websites utilize HTTPS encryption (look for the padlock icon in the address bar). They should accept major credit cards and offer secure payment gateways.
Scrutinize the website’s design and content. A professional, well-maintained website is usually a good sign. Poor grammar, broken links, or obviously misleading information should raise red flags.
Review customer testimonials carefully. While not foolproof, genuine reviews can provide insights. Be wary of an overwhelming number of overwhelmingly positive reviews. Consult your doctor or pharmacist. Discuss your medication needs and get their advice on sourcing medicine online. Report suspicious pharmacies. If you encounter a pharmacy you suspect is illegitimate, report it to the relevant authorities.
Remember, obtaining medication from an unverified source poses significant health risks. Prioritize safety and always conduct thorough research before purchasing medication online.