MIPA Guide to Safe Purchasing Practices

MIPA is dedicated to the supporting the delivery of safe and affordable distance-based pharmacy care for the improvement of health and well being of individuals of all ages from around the world. Since 2001, MIPA member pharmacies have been demonstrating that it is safe to purchase medicines at a distance and online.

However, the internet is not without dangers. MIPA members recognize the need to continue to take very effort to ensure that the quality of their medicines are second to none, and to ensure our patients that purchasing their medicine from MIPA pharmacies is as safe (or safer!) than purchasing from a local pharmacy.

To Do Checklist:

Here are some things consumers should do to ensure that their drug purchases from Canada are safe:

  • Check for a pharmacy license number on the website (if in doubt, call the regulator to confirm licensure)
  • Verify the physical address (i.e. a "bricks and mortar" location)
  • Purchase only from known and established pharmacies with proven track records for quality and good service
  • Verify that the Canadian pharmacy is certified by MIPA or its federal counterpart, CIPA (www.ciparx.ca)
  • Ask where the drugs are coming from, and what they should look like
  • Ask the Canadian pharmacy about its safety measures and standards
  • Call if there are any questions or concerns with the medicine
  • Never buy from a business that sells prescription medicine without a prescription, or based on a mere questionnaire

Known Rogue Operations:

MIPA also wages an ongoing campaign against rogue internet drug operations that would tarnish and undermine the good reputation of its legitimate pharmacies and service providers. As part of that ongoing campaign, MIPA issues routine warnings to consumers whenever such a rogue operation rears its ugly head. These sorts of operations have been known to engage in SPAM activities, prey upon the weak and infirm with manipulating and misleading selling tactics, place fraudulent credit card changes, or sell counterfeit medicine. They hide their identity with false names and address information.

Concerned you are being scammed?

Whatever you do, stay away from these rogue sites. If their emails or websites reference the following business names be very cautious:

If you believe you have been tricked into buying from a rogue drug operation, or are subjected to SPAM from a company claiming to be a legitimate Canadian pharmacy, please CONTACT US and tell us about your experience, so that we can protect others.

Stay Informed:

In addition, here are some useful resources: