Always buy medication from licensed pharmacies. Verify their legitimacy using online pharmacy verification tools provided by your national regulatory bodies.
- Check for a physical address and contact information. Legitimate pharmacies will openly display this. Inspect the website for secure connections (HTTPS). Look for a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar. Be wary of unusually low prices. Significantly discounted medication often signals counterfeit products.
Never respond to unsolicited offers for medications via email or text. These are often scams.
Scrutinize the packaging. Genuine medications feature clear labeling, consistent printing, and tamper-evident seals. Look for inconsistencies in the pills themselves. Differences in shape, size, color, or markings compared to previous prescriptions are warning signs. Report suspicious websites or pharmacies to your local health authorities.
Consult your doctor before starting any new medication, especially those purchased online. They can confirm the authenticity and safety of your prescription.
- Use reputable online resources like the FDA website (in the US) or equivalent organizations in your country to identify approved medications and pharmacies. Be aware of common red flags, such as requests for personal or financial information without secure encryption. Avoid websites that demand payment via unconventional methods, such as wire transfers or prepaid debit cards.
Protecting your health requires diligence. Taking these steps can significantly reduce your risk of encountering counterfeit drugs and online scams.
