Verify licensing and registration. Check the pharmacy’s website for their license number and registration details with the relevant Canadian regulatory bodies. You can usually find this information in the footer or a dedicated “About Us” section. Independently verify this information using the government’s online resources.
Examine their security measures. Look for evidence of secure connections (HTTPS) throughout the site. A reputable pharmacy will prioritize your data security and clearly state its privacy policy. Review this policy carefully; it should outline how your personal and medical information is handled.
- Check for website security certificates (a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar). Confirm they use secure payment gateways, such as those offered by major credit card companies.
Read customer reviews and testimonials. Scrutinize multiple review platforms for consistent feedback. Pay close attention to comments regarding shipping times, customer service responsiveness, and the authenticity of medications. Be wary of sites with overwhelmingly positive reviews, which could indicate fake feedback.
Use multiple review sites to get a balanced perspective. Look for detailed, specific feedback rather than generic praise. Note responses from the pharmacy to negative reviews; this reveals their customer service approach.
Contact the pharmacy directly. Test their customer service. Ask questions about their medication sourcing, shipping procedures, and return policies. Professional, responsive, and clear communication signals a reputable operation. Poor communication or evasiveness should raise red flags.
Compare prices cautiously. While lower prices can be tempting, extremely low prices often indicate counterfeit medications. A slightly higher price from a verified, reputable source is safer and more reliable in the long run.