Want to know whether a site, pill, or article is legit? Recognition is a practical skill. You don’t need to be an expert — just use a few quick checks to protect your health and your wallet.
First, check for a real prescription policy. If a site sells prescription meds without asking for a prescription, walk away. Look for clear contact info — a phone number, a physical address, and staff details. Reputable pharmacies list these.
Next, watch for accreditation and seals. In Canada and other countries there are bodies that certify pharmacies. Don’t trust a seal alone — click it. If the seal link goes nowhere or opens a logo image, that’s a red flag. Also check for HTTPS, a privacy policy, and clear shipping and returns info.
Price can tell you something. If the price is way lower than everywhere else, that might mean counterfeit or low-quality drugs. Read recent customer reviews from independent sources (not just the site’s testimonials). Real sites usually have consistent reviews across platforms.
Start with the basics: check the active ingredient, strength, and packaging. Genuine pills have consistent color, shape, and imprints. If the pill looks different from the official image or the package lacks a batch number and expiry date, stop using it.
Watch for odd tastes, unexpected side effects, or if the medicine doesn’t work at all. Keep the original packaging and take photos if you suspect a fake — pharmacies and regulators need evidence. When in doubt, compare the product to trusted pharmacy references or ask a pharmacist.
Supplements are less regulated than prescription drugs. Look for third-party testing (USP, NSF) and transparent ingredient lists. If a supplement claims to cure major illnesses, that’s a marketing trick, not a medical fact.
For alternatives to a drug (like when you’re searching for a substitute to save cost or reduce side effects), check approvals and side-effect profiles. Articles on alternatives should list pros and cons and suggest talking to your prescriber before switching.
Check the author and date. Real medical articles list the author or reviewer, their credentials, and when the content was updated. Reliable pages cite studies or official guidelines. If an article makes big claims but has no sources, be skeptical.
Look for balanced language. Trustworthy content mentions risks, side effects, and when to see a doctor. If a post pushes one product or site nonstop, treat it as an ad, not unbiased advice.
Need a quick checklist? Prescription required, clear contact info, accreditation, realistic pricing, packaging details, author credentials, and cited sources. Use those checks every time — they’ll save you stress and keep you safer.
Want help with a specific site or pill? Read our related articles or send a question — we’ll point you to reliable resources and explain what to look for next.
