Verify the pharmacy’s legitimacy using resources like the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites (VIPPS) program. This helps ensure they meet U. S. standards.
Beware of suspiciously low prices. Extremely cheap medications often signal counterfeit drugs, potentially harming your health. Compare prices across several reputable sources for a better idea of reasonable costs.
Check the website for contact information – a physical address and a working phone number. Legitimate pharmacies are transparent about their location and readily accessible for questions or concerns.
Examine the website’s security. Look for “https” in the URL and a padlock icon in the browser, indicating a secure connection protecting your personal and financial data. Avoid sites lacking these security measures.
Read online reviews carefully. While not foolproof, consistently negative reviews can highlight significant problems. Be cautious of overwhelmingly positive reviews that seem unrealistic.
Understand your prescription details. Ensure you’re getting the correct dosage and medication. Confirm the online pharmacy’s prescription fulfillment process before ordering.
Report suspicious activity. If you encounter a potentially fraudulent online pharmacy, report it to the authorities and relevant consumer protection agencies. This helps protect others from similar scams.
