Only pharmacies licensed by a provincial or territorial regulatory authority can legally sell prescription drugs online in Canada. This means you must verify a pharmacy’s license before ordering.
Health Canada regulates the sale of prescription drugs. They don’t directly license online pharmacies, but they work with provincial and territorial regulators to ensure compliance. Their website provides a list of licensed pharmacies in each province/territory, enabling you to confirm legitimacy.
Verifying a Pharmacy’s Legitimacy
Look for a physical address and contact information clearly displayed. A legitimate online pharmacy will provide this without hesitation. Avoid pharmacies that only offer email or anonymous contact methods.
Check the pharmacy’s registration with the relevant provincial college of pharmacists. These colleges maintain registers of licensed pharmacists and pharmacies, allowing you to easily confirm authenticity.
Beware of suspiciously low prices. Unreasonably cheap medications may indicate counterfeit or substandard products. A reliable pharmacy will offer prices competitive with traditional pharmacies, but not drastically undercutting them.
Potential Risks of Using Unlicensed Pharmacies
Purchasing from an unlicensed online pharmacy exposes you to several risks: counterfeit medications, incorrect dosages, and interactions with other medications you’re taking. These risks severely compromise your health and safety.
| Counterfeit drugs | Ineffective treatment, adverse reactions, or poisoning. |
| Incorrect dosages | Ineffective treatment, serious side effects, or overdose. |
| Lack of pharmacist consultation | Missed drug interactions, potential health complications. |
Reporting Suspicious Online Pharmacies
Report any suspicious online pharmacies to Health Canada and your provincial or territorial regulatory authority. Providing details, such as the pharmacy’s website address and your experiences, helps protect other Canadians.
Summary
Prioritizing safety means ensuring the online pharmacy you choose is fully licensed and operates within Canadian regulations. Remember, verifying a pharmacy’s legitimacy is crucial for your health and well-being.
