With the development of technology and the rise of the online world, more and more daily activities are performed online, including ordering medication for delivery. So the question arises, is it safe to get your medication delivered by an online pharmacy in Canada?

 

While buying your medication from online pharmacies is a new concept, there are a few key tips to help ensure you’re working with trusted partners during this process. 

Identifying an Accredited Online Pharmacist

Whenever ordering your prescription online, it’s important to choose an accredited pharmacist.  

In Canada, online pharmacies need to be licensed by a Canadian pharmacy regulatory authority that is a member of the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA). 

Find out more about the pharmacy regulatory authorities in Canada.

The following can help build confidence that the online pharmacy is legitimate:

• The order requires a valid prescription from a physician or health practitioner that is licensed to practice within Canada

• Showcase their licence issued by a provincial or territorial pharmacy regulatory authority

• The pharmacy offers assistance from a Canadian-licensed pharmacist who can answer questions

• Provide a street address in Canada that matches their listed address under the directories from their respective provincial or territorial pharmacy regulatory authority

Extra services such as virtual medical assistance and mental health support further indicate that the pharmacy will go the extra mile to support your needs. 

 

What Should You Check Before Ordering Medication Online?

If you’re wondering how to buy medication online, then follow these tips for safe pharmacy delivery.

Licensed Pharmacist

First, you need to make sure that the online pharmacy is legitimate and licensed to deliver prescriptions. The pharmacy should have a physical address located in Canada. Cross-reference the pharmacy’s address with the province’s regulatory authority.

For example, if the pharmacy’s physical address is registered in Ontario, then you can cross-reference the Ontario College of Pharmacists to confirm that the pharmacy is licensed. 

If the online pharmacy has more than one pharmacy site, then you can check each of their locations. You can confirm the legitimacy of each physical address listed on their website, from Nova Scotia to British Columbia and beyond.

In the uncommon scenario where there is no Canadian address provided, then you need to check that the pharmacy is a part of the Pharmacy Verified Websites Program. The platform is designed to help consumers identify safe and legitimate online pharmacies. 

Trustworthy

How do you know if you can trust an online pharmacy’s services? Checking online reviews is one of the most effective ways to determine whether or not a pharmacy is reputable. 

Recent statistics show that 97% of consumers use online sources to shop locally. Further statistics reveal that only 48% of consumers are willing to deal with businesses with less than four stars. Before placing an order with an online pharmacy, you can read their online reviews and consider their Google rating.

As pharmacies provide life-saving medications, it’s even more important to be certain of the pharmacy’s reputation and legitimacy compared to other online services.

 

Health Canada’s Role 

Health Canada is a government department that is responsible for national health policy. The department has several federal health-related agencies under its umbrella, including pharmaceutical activities. 

Licensing Drugs

Health Canada regulates therapeutic drugs by putting them through an intensive licensing process. An extensive pre-market review and continuous post-market assessment are conducted to monitor the drug’s safety, effectiveness and quality. 

 

The eight-digit DIN is proof that the drug has been assessed by Health Canada and determined as safe and effective. In addition, it helps to track bad drug reactions. 

Conducting Regular Inspections

Health Canada is also responsible for conducting regular inspections of all companies involved in the drug delivery process - from manufacturing and importing, to distributing the medication. 

Monitoring Complaints

If you have any bad experiences with a health product, then you can report the issue to Health Canada through their health product complaint form. 

If you experience any adverse reactions to medication, then you can report them to Health Canada through MedEffect Canada.

Control Illegal Entry of Medication

Health Canada helps to manage medications that enter the country. Together with Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), Health Canada helps to control drugs from illegally crossing the border. 

Individually, Canadians are permitted to import a three-month supply of therapeutic drugs (with certain restrictions). Packages may be seized if they are suspected to be counterfeit, adulterated, or do not meet the importation requirements.

An Online Pharmacy You Can Trust

With Mednow, getting medication delivered has never been easier with our streamlined home delivery medication solution. As a pharmacy that puts people first, we offer a modern approach to integrated health care, helping consumers when buying prescriptions online. 

We offer personal care, fast and free prescription delivery services, and health advice when needed. 

We’re a Canadian online pharmacy that is accredited by the Ontario College of Pharmacists, College of Pharmacists of BC, and Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists.  From smart prescription refilling to conducting a medication review, our services are expansive and trustworthy.

Get started with Mednow today!

This article offers general information only and is not intended as medical or other professional advice. A healthcare provider should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While the information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgement of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Mednow or its affiliates.

Get Started