How to Check an Online Pharmacy Before Filling a Prescription

Verify the website independently

Start with a source that is not controlled by the seller. FDA's BeSafeRx program explains online-pharmacy risks, and the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy provides a Safe Site Search Tool for checking a website.

Confirm that the pharmacy is licensed in the jurisdictions where it operates and serves patients. A website address alone does not establish licensure.

Know what a legitimate pharmacy should provide

• A requirement for a doctor's prescription before medicine is provided
• A licensed pharmacist available to answer your questions
• A physical address and telephone number in the United States
• Licensure with a state board of pharmacy
• Clear written protections for your personal and financial information

Recognize warning signs

FDA warns that an online pharmacy may be unsafe if it does not require a doctor's prescription, is not licensed in the United States and by a state board of pharmacy, does not have a licensed pharmacist available to answer questions, or offers deep discounts and prices that seem too good to be true. NABP lists similar warning signs, including missing written protections for personal and financial information.

Both organizations also warn about medicine that looks different from what your usual pharmacy provides or arrives in damaged packaging, and about charges for products you never ordered or received. Contact the dispensing pharmacy or prescriber when the product does not match what you were told to expect.

Know who prescribes and who dispenses

The clinician who reviews your request may work separately from the pharmacy that prepares or dispenses the medicine. Ask for the pharmacy's name and contact information so you know who dispensed your prescription.