Check the pharmacy’s registration with your provincial regulatory body. Each province has a college of pharmacists; verify their license directly from the source.
Confirm Physical Address and Contact Details
A legitimate Canadian pharmacy will have a verifiable physical address in Canada. Avoid pharmacies with only PO boxes or virtual addresses. Look for a valid phone number and email address – try contacting them directly. A quick response demonstrates trustworthiness.
Scrutinize the Website
- Examine the website’s security measures. Look for “https” in the address bar and a security padlock icon. Check for a clear privacy policy. Legitimate pharmacies are transparent about data handling. Verify the presence of contact information, including a physical address, phone number, and email address. Assess the website’s design; does it appear professional and well-maintained, free of grammatical errors and suspicious content?
Review Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Explore independent review sites, not just those on the pharmacy’s own website. Look for consistent feedback regarding order fulfillment, customer service, and the legitimacy of the products received.
Understand the Prescription Process
The pharmacy should require a valid prescription from a licensed physician. They should not ask for payment before verifying your prescription and other details. The shipping method should be transparent and trackable.
Beware of Red Flags
- Extremely low prices, often significantly lower than competitors. Pressure to purchase without a prescription. Lack of clear information about the pharmacy’s licensing and registration. Poor website quality or unprofessional design. Inability to contact customer service.
Additional Resources
Consult Health Canada’s website for guidance and information regarding the regulation of pharmacies. Report suspicious activity to the relevant authorities.
