Are internet pharmacies safe?

Please do not use internet pharmacies that are not a part of your insurance; almost all of these are illegitimate. FDA testing of medications from such “pharmacies” shows that many do not provide what you think you are buying, and in some cases, what is in the pills is actually toxic to humans. Please see the FDA website for more information about on-line pharmacies.

Your mail-away pharmacy through your insurance plan is safe, in general. Just make sure you have received the medication that you ordered. The pills inside the bottle should match a description on the label which includes the color and shape, and perhaps markings. If you have received a refill of a medication that you have taken before, but the pills look different, then check the label and make sure it is what it is supposed to be. If there is any question about whether this is the correct medication, always investigate before taking it. You can even take it to a brick-and-mortar pharmacy and ask for help to make sure it is correct.

Less Expensive Option

Sometimes medications (usually generics) are actually cheaper if you do not use your insurance to pay for them, but always buy them from a brick-and-mortar pharmacy.