A May 2012 FDA survey of over 6,000 adult internet shoppers found 23% had purchased pharmaceuticals online.  Of those surveyed, 30% were not confident about the appropriate way to safely buy prescriptions online.  This data is concerning, as a recent NABP review of 10,000 online pharmacies found only 3% followed US pharmacy laws and regulations.  This puts consumers at an increased risk of receiving inferior or even dangerous medication for their medical conditions.  To combat this problem, on September 28 2012, FDA launched BeSafeRx-Know Your Online Pharmacy patient education campaign.  BeSafeRx is designed to caution consumers about the hazards of purchasing prescriptions from online pharmacies. 

The BeSafeRx website features helpful tips that assist consumers in identifying fraudulent versus safe online pharmacies.  It is recommended consumers only buy from pharmacies that require a valid prescription, have a location in the US, have a licensed pharmacist available, and are licensed by the state board of pharmacy.  Links to all 50 state boards of pharmacies’ license databases are available on the website, allowing consumers to determine if an online pharmacy is licensed in the United States.   BeSafeRx also provides healthcare providers resources on talking to patients about the importance of purchasing drugs from safe venues.    

To view the FDA press release please visit: http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm321470.htm

For more information on the campaign or to view resources please visit: www.fda.gov/besaferx