7 Top Pharmacies & Prescriptions Companies

What to check before using an online pharmacy

Ordering medicine online can save time and money, but it is also a common route for counterfeit products. A few checks help you tell a properly run pharmacy from a risky one.

• Prescription required: a legitimate pharmacy asks for a valid prescription for prescription-only medicines. A site that sells them without one is a serious warning sign.
• Registration: pharmacies are licensed by a regulator in the country or state where they operate. Look for the license details and confirm them on the regulator's own website.
• A real pharmacist: there should be a way to speak to a pharmacist, plus a physical address and working contact details.
• Discount cards: discount programs lower the cash price at partner pharmacies. They are not insurance, and you usually cannot combine them with your insurance on the same purchase.
• Delivery: ask how temperature-sensitive medicines are shipped and what happens if a parcel is delayed.

Common problems and how to avoid them

People report prices that differ at the counter from the one shown online, refill delays, and orders cancelled while waiting for prescriber approval. Medicines generally cannot be returned once dispensed, so confirm the drug, strength and quantity before paying. CandorRated company pages show who runs the website, how long its domain has existed, contact details found and reviews. You can also filter the list by country to find pharmacies that serve where you live.

Frequently asked questions

How can I tell if an online pharmacy is legitimate?

It requires a prescription, lists a license you can check, shows a physical address and lets you contact a pharmacist.

Can I return medicine I no longer need?

Usually not, for safety reasons. Ask about local take-back schemes for disposal instead.