Check the pharmacy’s accreditation. Look for verification seals from organizations like the Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites (VIPPS) or the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). These seals indicate adherence to strict standards.
Verify the pharmacist’s license. A legitimate online pharmacy will clearly display the pharmacist’s license information and contact details. You should be able to independently confirm this information.
Scrutinize the website’s security. A secure website uses HTTPS (look for the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar). It should also have a privacy policy clearly outlining how they handle your personal data.
Review customer testimonials. Look for reviews on independent review sites, not just those found on the pharmacy’s own website. Be wary of overwhelmingly positive reviews, which can be fake.
Beware of unusually low prices. Significantly cheaper medication could signal counterfeit drugs. Prices should be competitive, but not exceptionally low.
| Contact Information | Physical address, phone number, email address, and fax number should be readily available. |
| Privacy Policy | A clear and comprehensive policy explaining how your data is handled. |
| Return Policy | Clear terms and conditions for returns and refunds. |
| Secure Payment Options | Accepted payment methods that prioritize security (e. g., encrypted systems). |
If anything feels amiss–missing information, unclear policies, or suspicious pricing–err on the side of caution and seek another pharmacy.
