How to Buy Medicine Online Sensibly

Generic medicines contain the same active ingredient as the brand-name versions and usually cost much less. For that reason, more people now choose to buy medicine online, from eye drops such as bimatoprost to weight loss capsules such as orlistat. A little care goes a long way.

Start with a prescription: a valid prescription is required for every order of a prescription medicine. A sensible supplier will ask for it. Avoid any website that does not ask for one.

Next, check the details: the active ingredient, the strength and the pack size should be clearly listed. Generic packs often look different from the brand you know, and that is normal.

To read a fuller guide, see this plain-English guide explains what to look for.

A few examples: glaucoma drops such as bimatoprost or latanoprost are used once a day in the evening, and you should leave five minutes between different generic bimatoprost drops. Orlistat 120 mg is taken with meals that contain fat and works best with a low-fat diet, plus a multivitamin at bedtime.

Once your order comes, compare the pack with your prescription and keep the leaflet. Let your doctor know which product you are taking.

More tips are on this page.

This article is for general information only. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before starting any medicine.