Is it safe to order medication from the internet?
June 10, 2024 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Jan Voigt
Dear Doctor,
My name is Ulrike Zollmann and I am reaching out to you with a question that has been weighing on my mind for some time. I suffer from chronic back pain for which my primary care physician regularly prescribes pain medication. Lately, I have heard about various online pharmacies that offer medications at lower prices. Now I am wondering if it is safe to order medications from the internet.
I am aware that there are many advantages to ordering medications online, such as convenience, a wider selection of products, and potential cost savings. However, I am concerned about the quality of the medications I could receive there. How can I be sure that the medications are genuine and effective? Are there risks that I should be aware of when buying medications online?
I want to ensure that I do not jeopardize my health by obtaining medications from questionable sources. Are there ways for me to verify if an online pharmacy is reputable? Are there certifications or quality standards that I should look out for? And how can I ensure that the delivered medications contain the same active ingredient and dosage as the ones prescribed by the doctor?
I would greatly appreciate your insights on this matter and ask for your expert advice. Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Ulrike Zollmann
Dear Mrs. Zollmann,
Thank you for your question and the trust you have placed in me. It is understandable that you are concerned about the quality and safety of medications that you want to order online. Purchasing medications online does indeed pose certain risks, but there are also ways to ensure that you receive high-quality and effective medications.
First and foremost, it is important that you only order from reputable online pharmacies. Reputable providers have official approval and are usually registered in Germany or the EU. Look for certificates such as the EU security logo or the package insert symbol, which should be displayed on the pharmacy's website. These certifications provide you with a certain level of assurance regarding the quality of the medications.
Furthermore, it is advisable to research the pharmacy and its reputation online. Look for reviews and testimonials from other customers to get an idea of the reliability and credibility of the provider. Also, pay attention to whether the pharmacy provides a valid contact address and a phone number for inquiries or in case problems arise.
Another important point is to verify the medications themselves. Compare the packaging, imprint, and shape of the tablets or capsules with the original products you are already familiar with. Make sure that the dosage and active ingredient match the doctor's prescription. If you have any uncertainties or doubts, be sure to consult your doctor or pharmacist.
It is also important to note that not all medications can be ordered online. Some drugs, especially prescription medications, can only be purchased with a valid prescription. Therefore, be cautious with providers who offer you prescription medications without a prescription.
Ultimately, it is up to you to weigh whether the potential cost savings and convenience of online purchasing are worth the risks. However, if you follow the tips mentioned above and carefully research, you can ensure that you receive high-quality medications that do not harm your health.
I hope that this information has been helpful to you, and I am happy to answer any further questions you may have.
Best regards,
Jan Voigt
