Finding them is the challenge. Despite some common misconceptions, it is in fact legal to buy prescription medications online. As long as certain guidelines are followed and conditions are met, buying medication can not only be more convenient but also considerably cheaper than purchasing from brick and mortar pharmacies. According to the FDA:



"Legitimate pharmacy sites on the Internet provide consumers with a convenient, private, way to obtain needed medications, sometimes at more affordable prices. The elderly and persons in remote areas can avoid the inconvenience of traveling to a store to purchase medications. Many reputable Internet pharmacies allow patients to consult with a licensed pharmacist from the privacy of their home. Moreover, Internet pharmacies can provide customers with written product information and references to other sources of information like the traditional storefront pharmacy. Finally, the increasing use of computer technology to transmit prescriptions from doctors to pharmacies is likely to reduce prescription errors"

Purchasing from foreign countries is where the gray area begins. Many regions (the U.S. being one of them) have laws regulating the purchase of prescription medication directly from overseas companies. The reason for this is to help protect U.S. consumers from being prescribed the wrong medication or receiving medication that is of a different strength than what is normally prescribed in the States. Some foreign countries however have attempted to circumvent this by using a distribution company inside the United States.

Tips for Buying Medications Online

* Spend time looking over the website and figure out how long they've been in business and what their policies are on shipping, ordering, etc.

* Look for verified seals that are recognized by country from which you are ordering medication.

* Find out whether or not a pharmacist is available to assist you with your pain medication order and to answer questions.

* Ask the company you are dealing with if they not only take the orders but ships them as well, fraudulent companies usually do not ship.

* Ask for the expiration date of the medication you are buying to avoid buying outdated medicine.

* Avoid offers that look too good to be true, they likely are. Buying medication online can be cheaper but high discounts (60%+) are not realistic and should be questioned.

In the end, buying medications online can be both convenient and cost effective. Caution should be exercised when deciding on an online pharmacy to purchase from but this goes without saying and applies to anything you buy on the internet.

As with all medical issues, filling your medication prescription should not be done without seeking the advice of your doctor and having a clear understanding of your condition.

Copyright (c) 2008 James Lingk