Verify the pharmacy’s license. Check the Canadian International Pharmacy Association (CIPA) website for a listing. CIPA members adhere to strict standards and regulations.
Inspect the website carefully. Look for a physical address in Canada, contact information (phone number and email address), and a privacy policy. Legitimate pharmacies are transparent.
Checking for Secure Transactions
Ensure the website uses HTTPS (look for the padlock icon in your browser). This indicates a secure connection protecting your personal information during transactions. Confirm they accept major credit cards and offer secure payment gateways.
Scrutinizing Pharmacist Credentials
A licensed Canadian pharmacy will have qualified pharmacists available to answer your questions. Look for information about their credentials and licensing. Direct contact is best for verification.
Examining Medication Information
Review the medication information thoroughly. The website should provide detailed descriptions of the drugs, including ingredients, dosage, and potential side effects. Beware of suspiciously low prices; they often signal counterfeit products.
Assessing Customer Reviews
Read independent customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot or other reputable review platforms. These provide insights into the pharmacy’s reliability and customer service.
Checking for Proper Registration
Confirm the pharmacy is registered with Health Canada. Their website provides a database to help you check registration status.
Reporting Suspicious Activity
Report any suspicions of illegitimate online pharmacies to Health Canada. This protects your health and helps authorities combat illegal operations.
