Check the Canadian International Pharmacy Association (CIPA) website for verified pharmacies.
Contents
Verify Pharmacy Credentials
- Confirm the pharmacy’s license with your provincial regulatory authority. Each province has its own governing body. Look for a physical address in Canada on their website – avoid PO boxes. Check for secure website encryption (HTTPS). A padlock symbol in the address bar indicates a secure connection. Read online reviews from multiple sources to gauge customer experiences. Consider both positive and negative feedback.
Understand Your Prescription Needs
Ensure your prescription is valid and from a licensed Canadian physician. Only order medications you need; avoid buying in bulk without a valid medical reason. Confirm the pharmacy can fill your specific prescription before placing an order.
Safe Ordering Practices
- Use credit cards with fraud protection for online purchases. Avoid using wire transfers or prepaid debit cards. Keep records of all transactions, including order confirmations and tracking numbers. Contact the pharmacy directly if you have any questions or concerns about your order. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification on anything unclear. Be wary of unusually low prices, which may indicate counterfeit medications.
Additional Resources
Consult Health Canada’s website for information on safe medication practices and identifying counterfeit drugs.
Contact Information
If you suspect a pharmacy is operating illegally, report it to the appropriate regulatory authority in your province.
