| The E-Pharmacy Gamble |
| Online pharmacies tempt customers with attractive prices, but fail to mention the hidden costs. The inherently unregulated nature of the internet allows these 'e-pharmacies' to operate without proper accreditation in foreign countries. Because there is no international regulation of pharmaceuticals, it's impossible to enforce U.S. standards for quality and safety abroad.
Recently, the FDA surveyed 11,000 web sites claiming to represent Canadian pharmacies. A closer look revealed that only 214 pharmacies in Canada actually sell pharmaceuticals over the web. Some of the other 10,000-plus sites weren't even in Canada, they were based in places like Mexico, southeast asia, and Pakistan.
The hidden costs of buying from an e-pharmacy truly come into play after the medication arrives. Accompanying drug information could be inaccurate or unreliable. Unaccredited pharmacies have been known to supply expired medication, offer inappropriate substitutions, and provide improper dosages. Possibly worst of all, illegitimate e-pharmacies may even sell counterfeit drugs, a huge problem worldwide.
The absence of face-to-face service online may save money, but it could come at a long-term cost. Even if you found a legitimate e-pharmacy, it may not ask you all the necessary questions. Incomplete information about your state of health, other medications or even age may produce an inappropriate prescription. What's more, e-pharmacies may not provide adequate advice to avoid a drug conflict.
If the risks outweigh the benefits, visit us. You can expect friendly, personable consultation, professional practices, respect of your privacy and appropriate and understandable information.
What is peace of mind worth to you?
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| "X" Marks the Spot
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Storing your medication in the right spot may be as important as taking it on time and on schedule.
When considering a regular spot to keep your medication, remember these tips:
• Keep them organized so that you or someone else can find them quickly and easily.
• Heat and humidity can damage medicines. Unless your bathroom is always well ventilated, consider using a different room in the house.
• Prevent an accidental injury by storing your medicine out of youngsters' reach.
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| Inquiring Minds Want to Know |
| You know that generic drugs cost less than their brand-name counterparts, but what about the other differences?
The FDA requires that generic drugs only contain the same strength and dosage of the active ingredient. The inactive ingredients -used for color, flavor, binding or bulk- may vary. These differences may be harmless to most people, while other bodies may have an unexpected reaction.
When inquiring about generic alternatives, be sure to ask us about potential risks, side effects and special instructions.
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