Check the pharmacy’s registration with the provincial regulatory body. Each Canadian province maintains a list of licensed pharmacies. Verify the online pharmacy’s license number directly with the appropriate provincial authority. This simple step significantly reduces your risk.
Confirm Physical Address and Contact Information
Legitimate pharmacies have a verifiable physical address in Canada. Look for a clearly displayed address, phone number, and email address. Avoid sites lacking this basic information. Try contacting them – a prompt, helpful response suggests legitimacy.
Scrutinize their website for secure connections (HTTPS). Look for a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar. Secure sites encrypt your personal data, protecting it from unauthorized access.
Examine the pharmacy’s privacy policy. A transparent and detailed privacy policy demonstrates commitment to data protection. A vague or missing policy should raise concerns.
Review online reviews and testimonials, but treat them critically. Look for patterns in both positive and negative feedback. Independent review sites offer a wider perspective than testimonials solely on the pharmacy’s website. Avoid pharmacies with overwhelmingly positive reviews – it can be a sign of manipulation.
Beware of incredibly low prices. Unusually cheap medication may indicate counterfeit or substandard drugs. Prices slightly higher or in line with traditional pharmacies are more likely to be legitimate.
Finally, consult your physician before ordering medication online. They can help ensure the medication you are ordering is appropriate for you and sourced from a safe provider.
