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What Are The Risks When Ordering Drugs Via The Internet?

From Office of Diversion Control, for About.com

Question: What Are The Risks When Ordering Drugs Via The Internet?
Also - How can those risks be minimized?
Answer: Persons considering purchasing drugs via an Internet pharmacy should exercise good common sense and scrutiny in selecting an Internet pharmacy. An "Internet pharmacy" site should provide a physical address for the pharmacy, in addition to the Internet address and a telephone number for the pharmacy.
  • Some common indicators that the "Internet Pharmacy" site may not be legitimate and should not be used as a source for controlled substances include the following:
  • The site is not a participant in any insurance plan and requires that all payments be made with a credit card.
  • The site requires that you waive some rights before they send you the drugs.
  • The site advises you about the law and why it is permissible for you to obtain pharmaceutical controlled substances from foreign countries via the Internet.
  • The site does not ask the name, address, or phone number of your current physician.
  • The site advises you to have the drugs sent to post office boxes or other locations to avoid detection by U.S. authorities.
  • The site does not require that you provide a bona fide prescription issued by your personal physician or mid-level practitioner.

Next FAQ > Can Underage Individuals Acquire Drugs On The Internet? How Can This Be Prevented From Happening?

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