Check the pharmacy’s website for a license number and physical address. This information should be clearly displayed. Then, verify this information independently.
State Licensing Boards
Visit your state’s board of pharmacy website. Most states have online databases where you can search for licensed pharmacies by name or license number. Confirm that the license is current and valid. Note any disciplinary actions listed.
National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP)
The NABP website offers a tool to verify pharmacies’ accreditation. Use this resource to cross-reference the information you’ve already gathered. Look for any red flags, such as missing information or inconsistencies.
Contact Information
A legitimate pharmacy provides multiple ways to contact them: phone number, email address, and a physical address. Try contacting them through different channels; a lack of response or difficulty contacting them should raise concerns.
Secure Website
Ensure the pharmacy’s website uses HTTPS, indicated by a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar. This shows that the site employs encryption to protect your personal information during transactions.
