Online pharmacies are becoming extremely popular and it’s easy to see why - they are convenient, accessible, and can offer discounts because they have lower costs compared to brick-and-mortar pharmacies.
Furthermore, you may feel awkward picking up your meds at your local pharmacy if you have a sensitive condition but you can order the same meds online without having to worry about discretion.
Unfortunately, the growing popularity of online pharmacies has led to an increase in the number of unsafe and illegal operators.
Choosing the wrong pharmacy can pose serious risks including receiving expired or even counterfeit medications.
5 Factors to Consider When Selecting an Online Pharmacy
1. Legitimacy and Accreditation
When selecting an online pharmacy, the most important factor is ensuring its legitimacy and accreditation.
According to the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP), about 95% of the websites selling prescription drugs online operate illegally. Loo for pharmacies should be verified by NABP or VIPPS (Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites).
These credentials guarantee that the pharmacy complies with stringent safety and quality standards.
Every online pharmacy offers different perks so you need to pick one that suits your needs. For instance, BlinkHealth is one of the best for price matching while DiRx is the best for filling multiple prescriptions and OptumStore is the best for insulin.
You can compare the top online pharmacies that have been reviewed by independent experts to help you make a decision.
2. Prescription Requirement
A reliable online pharmacy will always require a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
This step ensures that medications are dispensed safely and are appropriate for your medical condition.
If an online pharmacy offers prescription medications without requiring documentation, it is a red flag and it’s very likely that it is operating unlawfully or selling counterfeit drugs.
If you do not have a prescription, there are some online pharmacies that offer telehealth services as well so that you can consult with a licensed physician who can issue a prescription if needed.
3. Physical Address and Telephone Number
A legitimate online pharmacy will prominently display a physical address and a working telephone number on its website.
This information provides an additional layer of credibility and allows you to contact them directly if you have questions or concerns.
According to FDA guidelines regarding online pharmacies, people should be cautious of websites that lack clear contact details, as this may indicate an untrustworthy or fraudulent operation.
A physical address also means that the pharmacy operates from a verified location, giving you greater confidence in its services.
4. Customer Service and Support
When selecting an online pharmacy, one of the first things you should look at is their customer service and support.
Good online pharmacies have reliable customer service – in fact, many of them offer 24/7 support to ensure you can access help whenever you need it.
Look for pharmacies that provide multiple communication channels, such as live chat, email, or a toll-free phone number.
You can also check the response time of an online pharmacy as prompt response times are a key indicator of quality service.
5. Return and Refund Policy
When selecting an online pharmacy, it's important to review their return and refund policies.
A reputable pharmacy will have clear guidelines outlining how customers can return items in case of issues like incorrect prescriptions, damaged products, or unwanted items.
Check for time frames within which returns are accepted and whether they offer replacements, full refunds or store credit.
Additionally, ensure that the pharmacy has a process for verifying prescriptions and addressing errors, as this can help avoid complications.
If an online pharmacy lacks transparency in its return and refund policy, you should double-check that it is listed on your state’s board of pharmacy license database.
While online pharmacies offer convenience and privacy, it's crucial that you choose the right one.
Ensuring legitimacy through accreditation by organizations like NABP or VIPPS, verifying prescription requirements, and checking for a physical address and customer support are key steps to protecting your health and safety.
You may be tempted to choose whichever online pharmacy offers the lowest prices but if the rates are far lower than other competitors, you are at a high risk of receiving counterfeit or expired medications.
This is why it is important to prioritize safety over convenience when buying your medicines online.
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