Verify the online pharmacy’s license and certifications. Look for easily verifiable information.
- Check for a physical address. A legitimate pharmacy will have a verifiable street address, not just a PO Box. Search for their license number on your state’s board of pharmacy website. Each state maintains a registry; use it. Look for accreditation from organizations like the Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites (VIPPS) or the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). These are reputable accrediting bodies. Contact your state’s board of pharmacy directly if you have any doubts. They can confirm legitimacy.
Inspect the site’s security measures.
Ensure the website uses HTTPS, indicated by a padlock icon in the address bar. This shows encrypted communication. Look for a privacy policy clearly outlining how they handle your personal information. Review it carefully. Check for customer reviews and testimonials, but be aware that some may be fake. Consider the source and overall trend.
Be cautious of overly-aggressive marketing or suspiciously low prices. These are red flags. A legitimate pharmacy won’t need excessive advertising to attract customers.
