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This article discusses medication and is not a replacement for individual medical advice. Please make sure that you consult with your doctor before changing your medication regime. 

Online healthcare services are becoming more and more popular. This is due not just to the pandemic but because of the convenience and ease that online services offer. What are the reasons that someone might find it advantageous to get their medication filled online? Alternatively, what are the potential downsides? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of getting medication online so that you can decide if it might be the right choice for you. 

Pros of Getting Medication Online

• Convenience

As mentioned, one of the most apparent reasons why people choose to get medication online is convenience. Online pharmacies can add some much-needed free time to your day or week, depending on who you are, or they can make it easier to ensure that you get your refills on time and don’t miss a day of your medication. Rather than drive to the pharmacy and wait in line, your medication comes to you directly. This may be particularly helpful for parents, busy professionals, and so on. 

• Accessibility

More than just convenience, online healthcare options of various forms increases access to care. Someone may live in a rural area, have a disability, or face other challenges that make getting the medication they need in person less accessible, safe, or reliable. Online pharmacies may bridge this gap.

• Privacy

If you want to get a prescription for a medical need that you choose to keep private, using an online pharmacy can give you peace of mind. 

Cons of Getting Medication Online

• Mailing issues

Though most online pharmacies take serious precautions to ensure that mistakes won’t be made in the shipping process, the fear that something might happen to your prescription is real and valid. There are also some things you can’t control; those who do not have locked mailboxes, for example, may worry about stolen mail, which can be a big deal for someone who gets medication online.

• Scams

There are many legitimate online pharmacies out there. Still, scams tend to be one of the biggest concerns for those considering online pharmacy options, and rightfully so. The good news is that this apprehension can be mitigated in most cases. There are a couple of green flags that you can look out for, such as a physical mailing address, a licensed pharmacist on staff, and the requirement for a valid prescription. Never get medication from a pharmacy that does not require a prescription, as the risks of doing so can be serious.

Not sure if an online pharmacy is valid or not? The best way to confirm legitimacy for sure is to find or ask for a copy of licensure. If you want to learn more about medication as a general topic, you can read medically-reviewed articles on the BetterHelp website.

Are Online Pharmacies Right for Me?

As with many things in life, the choice is personal. Medication is a necessity for many people who live with various physical and mental health concerns or conditions, but not everyone is comfortable with getting their prescriptions filled online. Regardless of how you get your medication filled, make sure that your doctor and pharmacist alike are willing to spend adequate time addressing any questions you have in addition to discussing potential side effects and medication interactions that could occur. As long as you ensure that the online pharmacy you use is legitimate and are getting a full scope of quality care from licensed professionals, it is both a real and appropriate way to get your prescriptions filled. 

Marie Miguel Biography

Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.