A Guide to Online Pharmacies: What You Need to Know

Mandy Jimenez
2 days ago
3 min read

Ordering prescriptions online has become more common than ever. For many people, online pharmacies offer lower prices, greater convenience, and the comfort of home delivery. But with those benefits come important questions about safety, legality, and quality. Here’s what you should know before filling your prescriptions online.

Are Online Pharmacies Safe?

The short answer: some are, and some aren’t. Licensed online pharmacies follow the same safety rules as your local pharmacy. They require a valid prescription, keep pharmacists available to answer questions, and use secure systems to protect your information (National Association of Boards of Pharmacy [NABP], 2025).

Unfortunately, there are also many illegitimate websites that sell counterfeit or unsafe medications. A safe way to verify a pharmacy is to check through the Safe Pharmacy | National Association of Boards of Pharmacy database. Look for sites that clearly list a U.S. address and phone number and are willing to answer your questions (FDA, 2025).

Is It Legal to Buy Prescriptions Online?

Yes—if you use a licensed U.S. pharmacy. Ordering medication from overseas websites may seem cheaper, but it can be risky. International shipments are more likely to be counterfeit, mislabeled, or stopped by customs (FDA, 2025). To stay safe and avoid legal issues, stick to pharmacies licensed in your country.

Are Online Pharmacies Cheaper?

Often, yes. Many online pharmacies offer competitive pricing, generic options, and discount programs (GoodRx, 2025). Some accept insurance, while others operate on a cash-only model but provide lower out-of-pocket costs. Shipping is usually inexpensive or free for larger orders, though delivery times may vary.

Before you buy, compare prices using a tool like GoodRx or by calling your insurance provider to see which online options are covered (GoodRx, 2025).

How Do Online Pharmacies Work?

If you already have a prescription, you can usually transfer it to an online pharmacy by providing your current pharmacy’s details. Some online platforms also offer telehealth visits so you can get a prescription if you don’t already have one (Healthline, 2025).

Once your order is placed, delivery typically takes 3–10 days, depending on the service. Many providers also offer automatic refills to help you avoid running out.

Will My Privacy Be Protected?

Legitimate pharmacies safeguard your medical information with secure websites and clear privacy policies. Most also use discreet packaging so your medications arrive without drawing attention. Always check that the site starts with https:// before entering personal or payment information (FTC, 2025).

Risks of International Pharmacies

Buying medications from outside the U.S. may sound appealing because of the lower prices, but there are serious risks. Drugs may be counterfeit, expired, or in the wrong dosage. Even if the medication is real, customs can confiscate it (FDA, 2025). In the end, what looks like a deal could cost you more—in both money and health.

Red Flags to Watch For

Avoid any online pharmacy that:

Does not require a prescription.
Offers prices that seem “too good to be true.”
Does not provide a physical address or phone number.
Floods your inbox with unsolicited offers (FTC, 2025).

If you see these warning signs, move on to a verified source.

Final Thoughts

Online pharmacies can be a safe, convenient, and cost-effective option for managing your medications—but only if you choose carefully. Stick to licensed providers, verify their legitimacy, and always consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure. With the right precautions, ordering prescriptions online can make your healthcare routine easier and more affordable.

References

National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. NABP Verified Pharmacy Programs. Safe.Pharmacy. https://www.safe.pharmacy. Accessed August 28, 2025.
U.S. Food & Drug Administration. How to Buy Medicines Safely From an Online Pharmacy. FDA. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/how-buy-medicines-safely-online-pharmacy. Accessed August 28, 2025.
Federal Trade Commission. Buying Health Products and Services Online. FTC. https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0023-buying-health-products-services-online. Accessed August 28, 2025.
Healthline. How to Get a Prescription Online. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-get-a-prescription-online. Accessed August 28, 2025.
GoodRx. Save on Prescription Drugs. GoodRx. https://www.goodrx.com/. Accessed August 28, 2025.

Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board