Content
Another reason for relationship deterioration is physicians’ dismissal of questions that patients ask after searching for health information online [20]. Although the US government has developed regulations and policies to protect its consumers from illegitimate Internet pharmacies, there are many implementation challenges. The biggest challenge stems from trying to regulate US pharmacies that are in offshore locations [17]. Another challenge is the current license status of the prescribing physician in a state other than where the patient receiving the prescription drug resides [17].
In today’s digital age, it’s easier than ever to purchase drugs online. However, it’s important to do so safely and legally. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to purchase drugs online, including important considerations and precautions to take.
Step 1: Verify the Legitimacy of the Website
Addictions
Before making any purchases, it’s crucial to verify the legitimacy of the website. Look for signs of a legitimate online pharmacy, such as:
Often times, websites will advertise “cyber doctors” who order prescriptions based on online questionnaires—however, these are often not legitimate prescriptions under the law. Over the past decade, many illegal online pharmacies began utilizing social media platforms to expand their customer reach. Along with creating thousands of domain names to avoid the forced removal of their websites by authorities, criminal organizations will create many different social media accounts, switching from platform to platform to avoid being reported. These criminals use social media accounts not only as a method to sell drugs but to advertise their illegal businesses as well. Some social media pages do not have any posts and simply link to an external site, or their bio prompts the buyer to send a direct message (DM) for more information.
Olivia PrentzelGeneral Assignment Reporter
- A physical address and phone number
- A licensed pharmacist available for consultation
- Prescription requirements
- Secure payment options
- Privacy policy and terms of use
National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) NABP’s Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites (VIPPS) accreditation program works to ensure and consistently monitor, on an ongoing basis, the legitimacy of the few businesses it approves. For a list of VIPPS-accredited online pharmacies, visit /programs/accreditation/vipps/find-a-vipps-online-pharmacy. Once this point of contact is reached, it only takes a few direct messages to make a sale. Additionally, the disappearing chat and photo feature on Snapchat can make some drug deals virtually untraceable. Also, innovative features like hashtags, trending pages, “Quick Add” contacts, and disappearing direct messages can all contribute to mass drug distribution that law enforcement struggle to trace.
If a website lacks any of these features, it’s best to avoid making a purchase.
Step 2: Consult with a Healthcare Professional
Before purchasing any drugs online, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help determine if the medication is appropriate for your condition and provide dosage instructions.
Step 3: Compare Prices and Options
Other websites may not follow established procedures meant to protect consumers. For example, some sites only ask you to fill out a questionnaire before ordering prescription medicines. They don’t require face-to-face interaction with a healthcare professional. Officials spoke with former drug users and sellers and families of overdose victims for the report. Currently, because enforcement activities have targeted illicit online pharmacies, the market has adapted, namely, through cryptomarkets. These markets often have fully developed systems of customer feedback and dispute resolution.
Risks Associated With Buying Drugs Online
Once you’ve verified the legitimacy of the website and consulted with a healthcare professional, it’s time to compare prices and options. Look for websites that offer competitive pricing and a wide selection of medications.
Step 4: Place Your Order
After selecting the medication and dosage, follow the website’s instructions to place your order. Be sure to double-check all information, including your name, address, and payment details, before submitting your order.
Step 5: Wait for Delivery
Most online pharmacies offer discreet packaging and shipping. Wait for your medication to arrive, and be sure to inspect the package upon delivery for any signs of tampering or damage.
FAQs
Is it legal to purchase drugs online? Yes, as long as the website is legitimate and you have a valid prescription from a healthcare professional.
How To Rebuild Your Life After Addiction
Can I purchase prescription drugs without a prescription? No, it’s illegal to purchase prescription drugs without a valid prescription from a healthcare professional.
Tor’s creation was originally sponsored by the United States Naval Research Laboratory, and it is used by political activists around the world to send messages. But it also allows dealers in drugs and other illegal products to meet online without leaving any trace of their identity. Because it is almost impossible to locate the servers where the website is hosted, it is extremely difficult to take down, in spite of calls from politicians such as Charles Schumer, a New York senator, for the site to be closed.
- Any site that sends you prescription medicines without first receiving a prescription from a doctor is breaking Australian law.
- It primarily bypasses censorship but is also used to access the general dark web.
- Far as I can tell, it’s the most legitimate resource out there for these kinds of things.
- If you are thinking of buying medicines online, look for the website pages called ‘About us’ or ‘FAQs’.
- Buying drugs online from a stranger is dangerous because you do not know who made the drugs, where they came from, or how they were made.
How can I verify the legitimacy of an online pharmacy? Look for signs of a legitimate online pharmacy, such as a physical address and phone number, a licensed pharmacist available for consultation, prescription requirements, secure payment options, and a privacy policy and terms of use.
Is it safe to purchase drugs online? Yes, as long as you take precautions and verify the legitimacy of the website. Avoid websites that lack important features, such as a physical address and phone number, a licensed pharmacist available for consultation, prescription requirements, secure payment options, and a privacy policy and terms of use.
