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.
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.