Check the College of Pharmacists’ website for your province or territory. Each province and territory in Canada has its own regulatory body that licenses pharmacists and pharmacies. These websites provide searchable databases of licensed pharmacies and pharmacists. Verify the pharmacy’s name and address against the listed information. Discrepancies should raise immediate concerns.
Canadian International Pharmacy Association (CIPA)
Look for CIPA accreditation. CIPA is a non-profit organization that sets standards for online pharmacies. A CIPA-accredited pharmacy adheres to specific guidelines regarding prescription verification, dispensing practices, and security. The CIPA website provides a searchable directory of accredited pharmacies. Confirm the online pharmacy’s inclusion in this directory.
Inspect the pharmacy’s website for contact information – a physical address, phone number, and email address are crucial. Avoid pharmacies offering only limited contact information. Legitimate pharmacies are transparent and readily available. Look for a clear privacy policy outlining how the pharmacy handles personal data.
Independent Verification
Use a third-party verification service specializing in online pharmacy authentication. Several independent services exist, offering comprehensive checks on pharmacy legitimacy and safety. Note that these services typically charge a fee.
