Check Health Canada’s website (www. canada. ca/en/health-canada. html). This is your primary source for verifying licensed medications and identifying fraudulent pharmacies.
Verifying Pharmacies
- Confirm the pharmacy’s registration with a provincial regulatory body. Each province has its own College of Pharmacists; search online for your province’s regulator. Look for secure online transaction methods (HTTPS). Check for a padlock symbol in your browser’s address bar. Read online reviews carefully, but remember that reviews can be manipulated. Beware of extremely low prices – they often indicate counterfeit drugs.
Understanding Medication Information
Always carefully read the drug information provided by your doctor or pharmacist. Understand potential side effects and drug interactions.
Seeking Doctor’s Advice
Consult your doctor before ordering any prescription medication online, even from a seemingly reputable Canadian pharmacy. Discuss any concerns you have about cost or access to medications with your physician. They may have solutions to help you. Never take medication prescribed for someone else.
Additional Resources
Contact your provincial health ministry or a consumer protection agency if you suspect fraud or have concerns about an online pharmacy.
Reporting Concerns
Report suspicious online pharmacies to Health Canada. They actively monitor the online marketplace for illegal activity.
