Check the pharmacy’s license number on the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) website. This is the primary verification method. The license number should be prominently displayed on the website.
Verify the pharmacy’s physical address. A legitimate online pharmacy will have a registered office address in India. You can try to locate this address using online map services.
Look for secure payment gateways. Reputable pharmacies use secure SSL encryption (look for the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar) for all transactions.
Examine the pharmacy’s contact information. A legitimate business provides multiple ways to contact them, including phone number, email address, and physical address.
Scrutinize the website’s design and information. Avoid sites with poor grammar, missing information, or unrealistic pricing.
Read customer reviews and testimonials, but use discretion. While feedback can be helpful, remember that fabricated reviews are possible.
Confirm the pharmacist’s registration details with the respective State Pharmacy Council. This step requires a little extra effort, but adds significant validation.
Beware of suspiciously low prices. Unreasonably cheap medications may indicate counterfeit products or unlicensed operations.
Avoid pharmacies offering medications without a prescription unless they are over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. This is a significant red flag.
