Legitimate vs. Illegitimate Canadian Pharmacies: Spotting the Difference

Check the pharmacy’s registration. Legitimate Canadian pharmacies will be registered with their provincial regulatory body. You can verify this independently. Look for a clear physical address in Canada and contact information.

Verifying Legitimate Pharmacies

Use the Pharmacy Checker Verification Program. This independent verification service helps you confirm a pharmacy’s legitimacy. Always look for a website that’s secure (HTTPS). A lack of security is a significant red flag.

Be wary of unusually low prices. Prices significantly lower than elsewhere often indicate counterfeit drugs. A legitimate pharmacy should be transparent about their pricing.

Red Flags: Signs of Illegitimate Pharmacies

Beware of pharmacies that don’t require prescriptions. Legitimate pharmacies will always require a valid prescription from a licensed physician. Also, be cautious of pressure tactics; if a site aggressively pushes you towards purchasing medication, exercise caution.

Feature Legitimate Pharmacy Illegitimate Pharmacy
Prescription Requirement Always required Often not required
Pricing Competitive, transparent Unusually low
Website Security HTTPS secure Often not secure (HTTP)
Contact Information Clearly displayed, verifiable Limited or missing
Regulatory Registration Registered with provincial body Unregistered or falsely registered

Confirming Your Doctor’s Prescription

Contact your doctor to verify the authenticity of the prescription. This crucial step ensures you receive the right medication and from a safe source. Never hesitate to ask questions before ordering medications online.