Online Pharmacy Guide: How to Buy Meds Safely & Legally in 2025

What Makes an Online Pharmacy Legit?

A legit site will ask for a valid prescription for prescription‑only drugs. If a store lets you purchase Metformin, Benazepril, or Keppra without a doctor’s note, that’s a red flag. Look for a pharmacy license number that matches your country’s regulator – in South Africa, that’s the SAHPRA number. A clear privacy policy and a real customer service phone line are also good signs.

Step‑by‑Step Checklist for a Safe Purchase

1. Verify the license. Type the pharmacy’s license number into the regulator’s website. If it doesn’t show up, walk away.

2. Check the prescription requirement. Legit sites will ask you to upload or fax a prescription for drugs like Keppra or Leuprolide. If they promise “no prescription needed,” that’s a scam.

3. Compare prices. Use a price‑comparison tool or look at a few trusted pharmacies. Extremely low prices often mean counterfeit meds – especially for high‑demand drugs such as Vistaril or Glyburide.

4. Read the reviews. Look for reviews on independent forums, not just the pharmacy’s own page. Real users will mention shipping speed, packaging, and whether the pills matched the description.

5. Secure payment. Choose payment methods that protect you, like credit cards or PayPal. Avoid direct bank transfers to unknown accounts.

When you follow these steps, you’ll lower the odds of getting fake meds or getting scammed. This is why it’s worth spending a few minutes on research before buying.

Many people start with common meds like Metformin for diabetes, Benazepril for blood pressure, or Keppra for epilepsy. Our tag page lists detailed guides for each of these drugs – from dosing tips to what side effects to watch for. Reading those guides can help you ask the right questions when you contact a pharmacy.

Shipping is another piece of the puzzle. Reputable online pharmacies will provide a tracking number and use discreet packaging. If a site says “free shipping worldwide” but gives no tracking, that’s a warning sign. Also, be aware of customs rules – some countries block certain drugs, and you could lose your package or face legal trouble.

What about over‑the‑counter items like allergy pills (Allegra) or eye drops (Careprost)? Even though they don’t need a prescription, you still want a trusted seller. Look for clear ingredient lists, reputable brand names, and clear return policies. Cheap knock‑offs often lack quality control and can cause irritation or worse.

Finally, keep your health records handy. Having your prescription, dosage, and doctor’s contact info ready speeds up the ordering process and reduces errors. If a pharmacy asks for a refill, they can quickly verify everything without you having to dig through old papers.

Buying medication online can be a safe, convenient option – as long as you stay alert, verify the pharmacy, and follow the checklist above. Use the guides on our site for specific drugs, compare prices, and never compromise on a prescription when it’s required. Your health is worth the extra few minutes of research.