Verify the pharmacy’s license with the provincial regulatory authority. Each province has its own licensing board; check their website directly for verification.
Look for a physical address and contact information. Legitimate pharmacies are transparent about their location and readily provide contact details. Avoid sites with only a PO box or limited contact options.
Scrutinize the website for professionalism. Does it appear well-maintained and easy to use? Check for secure payment gateways (HTTPS) and clear privacy policies.
Checking for Legitimate Medications
Inspect the medication packaging carefully upon arrival. Look for tamper-evident seals and consistent labeling. Report any discrepancies to the pharmacy immediately and contact your doctor.
Compare prices cautiously. Unbelievably low prices could signal counterfeit drugs. Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.
Protecting Your Personal Information
Only use secure payment methods. Credit card payments processed through reputable gateways offer better protection against fraud.
Review the pharmacy’s privacy policy. Understand how they handle your personal and medical data. A clear and concise policy demonstrates commitment to data security.
Additional Precautions
Consult your doctor before ordering medications online. They can advise on the safety and suitability of online pharmacies and the prescribed medication.
Keep detailed records of your orders, including order numbers, dates, and correspondence. This helps resolve potential issues.
Beware of Red Flags
High-pressure sales tactics are often a sign of a fraudulent operation. Avoid pharmacies that aggressively push you into making a purchase.
Lack of pharmacist consultation should raise concern. Reputable Canadian pharmacies offer consultations to ensure medication safety.