Warning About Online Pharmacies
A growing number of people across the U.S. are buying dangerous, counterfeit medications from illegal online pharmacies, believing they are safe purchases. Here's what to know.
For Your Awareness
A rising number of people across the U.S. are purchasing medications from online pharmacies, and the vast majority of these online pharmacies — nearly 95% according to the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) — operate illegally.
These illegal online pharmacies disregard the safeguards followed by legitimate pharmacies, and the medications they sell are often unregulated and counterfeit. Many of the medicines contain fentanyl (a synthetic opioid 50-100 times stronger than heroin or morphine), meaning people who take the medications are at risk of serious overdose.
According to a recent survey, over 50% of adults in the U.S. have purchased medications from online pharmacies, often because these pharmacies provide deep discounts and added convenience. Most of these buyers operate under the false assumption that these pharmacies are safe.
What to Do
As a patient and/or caregiver, do not assume an online pharmacy is safe. Ensure you purchase your medications from legitimate licensed pharmacies. You can verify pharmacies here or here.
If you have already purchased medications from an unlicensed online pharmacy, dispose of them safely. Do not take them.
If you are a patient-facing team member, please be aware of the dangers of online pharmacies, and notify patients if appropriate.
Important note for all team members: Our clinicians can only electronically prescribe to pharmacies in a secure network that only includes legitimate online pharmacies.
If you have any questions, please contact Clare Jones, RN, Medication Diversion Prevention Program Manager.
More information can also be found here:
MyChart