Check the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) register. This register lists all pharmacies legally allowed to operate in the UK. Simply enter the pharmacy’s name to confirm its legitimacy.
Look for the GPhC logo on the website. This signifies registration and adherence to UK pharmaceutical regulations.
Verify the pharmacy’s contact details. Legitimate pharmacies provide clear contact information, including a physical address and phone number. Avoid sites with only email contact or a PO Box address.
Scrutinize the website’s security features. A secure website uses HTTPS (indicated by a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar). This protects your personal and payment information.
Read customer reviews and testimonials. Independent reviews offer valuable insight into a pharmacy’s reliability and service quality. However, be aware that fake reviews exist; consider the overall trend of feedback.
Avoid suspiciously low prices. Unusually cheap medication may indicate counterfeit products or a fraudulent operation. Compare prices across several registered pharmacies.
Consult your doctor before ordering medication online. Your doctor can advise on the suitability and safety of online pharmacies and the medication itself.
Report suspicious online pharmacies to the GPhC. Helping to identify and stop illegitimate operations ensures patient safety.
Remember: Protecting your health requires caution. Using registered pharmacies significantly reduces the risks associated with purchasing medication online.
