Can You Really Buy Prescription Pills Online?

Online pharmacies offer customers a convenient way to buy prescription pills and other medications over the Internet. However, as with all Internet transactions, it is important to exercise caution when purchasing medicine online.

Function

• Compared to their brick-and-mortar counterparts, Internet pharmacies provide customers with a private and typically less-expensive shopping experience.

Benefits

• Customers can fill new prescriptions and transfer old prescriptions online. Many Internet pharmacies also offer benefits such as automatic refills, bulk discounts and access to a registered pharmacist.

Considerations

• Most online pharmacies refuse to dispense prescription drugs without a script.

Identification

• The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) has created a list of Internet pharmacies that pass its strict accreditation standards. The association also recommends LegitScript, a website that allows customers to check the legitimacy of online pharmacies not accredited by the NABP.

Warning

• Purchasing medicine online involves disclosing personal information and exposes buyers to potential dangers such as counterfeit or incorrect medication. Shopping at a legitimate online pharmacy helps reduce these risks.