Always check the pharmacy’s registration with your provincial regulatory body. This verifies their legal operation within Canada.
- Visit the websites of provincial regulatory colleges of pharmacists (e. g., the College of Pharmacists of British Columbia). Search their online registries using the pharmacy’s name and address. Confirm the pharmacy’s license status and any disciplinary actions.
Look for secure website features. A secure site protects your personal information.
- Verify the presence of “https” at the beginning of the website address. Check for a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar. Ensure the site uses SSL encryption to secure data transmission.
Read customer reviews carefully, but be cautious. While reviews offer insight, they are not foolproof.
- Use multiple review platforms to get a broader picture. Consider the volume and consistency of reviews. Beware of suspiciously positive or negative reviews.
Contact the pharmacy directly. A legitimate pharmacy will readily answer questions.
Ask about their licensing and registration. Inquire about their return policy and customer support procedures. Check their response time and the helpfulness of their communication.
Never share personal or financial information unless the site uses robust security protocols. Report suspicious pharmacies to the relevant authorities.
