Online pharmacies offer convenience and cost savings. However, this ease comes with risks, particularly when it comes to safety and security. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that some online pharmacies operate outside US laws. It�s important to understand the pros and cons of purchasing medications from an online pharmacy. Here are some tips to help you evaluate an online pharmacy: Check if a prescription is required online Most online pharmacies are legitimate and require a valid prescription from a licensed clinician. If the online pharmacy does not require a prescription, this is a red flag. Verify pharmacy credentials Authentic online pharmacies display the pharmacy�s license number, its state of origin, and a contact phone number on its website. You can then verify the license by checking with the appropriate state board of pharmacy. Understand the fees, insurance and shipping costs Legitimate online pharmacies disclose their fees, shipping costs, and insurance policies upfront. These charges are often included in the total cost of the medication. If the online pharmacy does not disclose its fees and shipping costs, this could indicate that it is not an authentic online pharmacy.