Online Pharmacy 101: What You Need to Know
The Problem
Consumers of all ages are just a click away from Illegal online drug sellers that peddle dangerous products in violation of US law.
Despite the existence of many safe online pharmacies that adhere to laws and safety standards, the Internet has opened the door to thousands of criminal Internet sites. At any one time there are approximately 35,000-50,000 active online drug sellers, 97% of which do not comply with U.S. laws, putting patients at risk.[1] Illegal online “pharmacy” operations are big business, the largest of which generate millions in sales each month.[2]
Implications for Your Health
Patients are just a click away from “medicines” sold online that may – at best – not provide the desired healing benefits, and at worst harm or even kill them. Illegal online drug sellers may appear legitimate and safe – using flashy websites with pictures of friendly looking “doctors” – but the vast majority actually endangers patients. These drug sellers often peddle prescription drugs without a prescription, sell counterfeit or otherwise illegitimate products,