If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact the Military Crisis Line at 988 and press 1, or Text 838255. You can also call 911.
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How to Safely Buy Prescription Medication Online

Purchasing medication online can offer you convenience, privacy and cost savings. However, around 95% of websites offering prescription-only medicines operate illegally. These illegal pharmacies lure you by offering major discounts on popular medications, but they sell unapproved, counterfeit or otherwise unsafe medicines. These websites are also unsecure and can compromise your personal information.

Warning Signs of an Unsafe Online Pharmacy:

  • A doctor’s prescription is not required.
  • The pharmacy is not licensed in the U.S. and by your state board of pharmacy.
  • A licensed pharmacist is not available to assist you online.
  • The medication looks different, packaging is tampered, expired or no expiration date noted.
  • The website does not state clear protections about your personal or financial information.

It is also important to keep in mind that consuming medication from an illegal pharmacy can be fatal. The medications may contain the wrong ingredients or other harmful substances. Sometimes the drugs have too much or too little of the active ingredient you use to treat your disease or condition.

Accessing a Safe Online Pharmacy

Things to look for before purchasing medication from an online pharmacy:

  • They require a doctor’s prescription.
  • They provide a physical address and telephone number in the U.S.
  • They have a licensed pharmacist on staff to answer your questions.
  • They are licensed with a state board of pharmacy.

Helpful Resources for Getting Medications Online

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has a convenient location tool database for you to check if the online pharmacy is licensed by your state board of pharmacy. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy allows you to verify the website by simply entering the online pharmacy’s URL here.

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If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact the Military Crisis Line at 988 and press 1, or Text 838255. You can also call 911.