Six Signs to Check Before Using an Online Pharmacy

An attractive website and a low price do not prove that an online pharmacy is safe. Before sharing a prescription, health history, identification, or payment details, verify the operation behind the page.

Use six checks

1. A valid prescription is required for prescription medicine.
2. The site identifies the dispensing pharmacy and its physical location.
3. A licensed pharmacist is available to answer questions.
4. Licensing or regulatory information can be verified independently.
5. Privacy, security, payment, shipping, and refund practices are clear.
6. The medicine, strength, dosage form, quantity, price, and source are not hidden.

Warning signs include selling prescription medicines without a prescription, claims that sound miraculous, pressure to buy immediately, no pharmacist access, unclear sourcing, or products that arrive damaged, expired, or unexpectedly different.

For U.S. consumers, review FDA BeSafeRx. Rules and verification resources vary by country.