Getting an appointment to see a GP these days is increasingly difficult, so many people are now sourcing their medications online. You might think it’s a simple solution that’s potentially cheaper, but it’s easy to get things wrong, which could harm your health.
The main problem is that it’s hard to tell which websites can be trusted versus those taking you for an expensive and often dangerous ride. ‘For this reason, I’d favour a face-to-face interaction with your own GP’, advises GP Dr Pixie McKenna.
‘If that’s not possible, only opt for the well-known pharmacists online. If in any doubt, ask your local pharmacist for their opinion.’
When asked to fill in a medical questionnaire on a website, do so truthfully – this includes avoiding white lies or omitting information because you don’t think it’s relevant. Then inform your regular GP if a prescription is given.
The notion that online prescriptions should be ‘off the record’ is incorrect and can lead to overprescribing or drug interactions. If your request for medicines is refused, that’s a sign you’re getting a good service, not a signal to search for someone who will say yes.
The market for counterfeit drugs is huge and – thanks to AI and some very slick marketing – it is easy to be duped. Proceeding to check out with a basket of ‘goodies’ could ultimately cause serious ill health or debt if you get scammed.
This column is originally published in the October 2024 issue of Woman&Home SA.
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