Verify the pharmacy’s license and accreditation. Look for verification seals from organizations like the Pharmacy Checker Verification Program or LegitScript. These independent organizations inspect pharmacies for compliance with standards. Don’t rely solely on website claims; independent verification is key.
Check the pharmacy’s physical address and contact information. Legitimate pharmacies will provide easily verifiable details, not just a PO Box. You should be able to find their location on a map and contact them by phone.
- Beware of pharmacies with only email contact. Suspicious sites often lack detailed business information.
Review online reviews and testimonials from other customers. While some fake reviews exist, a pattern of negative feedback should raise serious red flags. Use reputable review sites to filter out potentially fake reviews.
Pay close attention to mentions of shipping delays, order issues, or poor customer service. Look for consistent feedback across different platforms.
Ensure the website uses secure encryption (HTTPS). Look for the padlock icon in the browser’s address bar. This indicates that your personal information is protected during transactions.
Confirm the pharmacy’s licensing with your state’s board of pharmacy. Many state pharmacy boards maintain online registries of licensed pharmacies. Cross-check the information provided on the website with the official records.
Only use pharmacies that require a valid prescription. Legitimate pharmacies will always verify your prescription before dispensing medication. This safeguards both your health and safety.
Report suspicious online pharmacies to the authorities. Several agencies monitor online pharmacies and act on complaints. Contact your local health department or the FDA if you encounter a potentially illegal website.
