While it is convenient to buy prescription drugs online, consumers need to be discerning of the Internet pharmacies they visit. Below is a guide that can teach consumers how to buy prescription medication online in six steps:
Before Ordering
1. Consult with a physician.
Consultation is an essential step in getting a prescription. A physician can also determine whether an alternative form of therapy or medication is more suitable for a certain condition or illness. Alternatively, patients can also sign up for online pharmacies with free consultations to get their prescriptions.
2. Get informed about the prescribed medication.
Patients must discuss the possible side effects of taking a particular medicine and how it may react with the other drugs they are using with their doctors. They can also ask for a similar but cheaper version of the drug if they feel that it is too expensive especially for long treatment periods. Patients can also ask for a free sample of the drug to help them identify counterfeit ones when they order online.
3. Look for a reputable Internet pharmacy.
Look for an online pharmacy that is licensed by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy and accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. Some reliable sites also have a seal of approval from the Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites.
Upon Ordering
4. Fill up an order form.
A patient may be required to fax a copy of his prescription and supply his credit card number. It is important to pay special attention in filling up order forms to supply the correct product quantity and dosage. However, patients should refrain from giving their credit card number unless they are sure that the site will protect their personal information. A confidentiality and privacy policy is a good place to start reading.
5. Wait for a confirmation that the order was received.
After ordering, online pharmacies often send a confirmation email that serves two purpose: First, the email confirms to the patient that his order was received and is due for processing. Second, the email seeks further confirmation from the patient to push through with the order. Clicking on the link included in the email finishes the ordering process.
Upon Delivery
6. Examine the medication for authenticity.
Counterfeited medications are not limited to websites that do not require prescriptions. They have also infiltrated some major online pharmacies and discount drugstores. As such, it is important to double-check and examine prescription medications for authenticity prior to taking them. Consumers can use the sample they got from their doctors in comparing medications.
