Verify the pharmacy’s license. Check state licensing boards and the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) website for verification. Look for a valid license number prominently displayed.
Confirm their accreditation. Legitimate online pharmacies often hold accreditation from organizations like the Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites (VIPPS). This accreditation signifies adherence to high standards of practice and patient safety.
Read independent reviews. Consult websites like Trustpilot or other review platforms to see what other customers say about their experiences. Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews and look for recurring themes.
Secure Payment and Privacy
Ensure they use secure payment gateways. Look for symbols indicating secure connections (HTTPS) and trusted payment methods like PayPal or Stripe. Your personal and financial information should be protected.
Examine their privacy policy. A clear and detailed privacy policy outlining how they handle your personal data is a sign of a responsible pharmacy. Avoid sites with vague or absent policies.
Customer Support and Communication
Assess their customer service channels. Reputable pharmacies offer multiple ways to contact them–phone, email, and live chat–for assistance with orders or questions.
Review their prescription process. Understand how they verify prescriptions and handle refills. A streamlined, transparent process that includes doctor consultations (if required by law) indicates professionalism.
Doctor Consultation
Check if a telehealth consultation is available. Many legitimate online pharmacies partner with licensed medical professionals to provide consultations before dispensing medication. This ensures appropriate medication selection and safe use.
