Verify the pharmacy’s license with the College of Pharmacists of British Columbia or a similar provincial regulatory body. Look for a clear physical address and contact information, including a phone number you can call.
Check for a secure website using HTTPS. Avoid pharmacies with suspicious website designs or those lacking details about their accreditation and registration.
Scrutinize online reviews carefully; look for patterns in positive and negative feedback. Be wary of suspiciously positive reviews only.
Never share personal or financial information unless the website uses secure encryption (look for the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar). Use strong, unique passwords.
Understand the pharmacy’s return policy before ordering. Know how to handle potential issues such as damaged goods or incorrect medications.
Consult your physician or pharmacist before ordering medication online, particularly if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications. They can assess the risks and recommend a safe course of action.
Compare prices across multiple reputable online pharmacies to ensure you’re getting a fair deal, but price alone shouldn’t be the sole determining factor.
Be aware of counterfeit medications. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Report suspicious pharmacies to the appropriate authorities.
Store your medications safely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Dispose of expired or unwanted medications responsibly.
