To spot a fake online pharmacy, check three things: it asks for a prescription, it shows an address in Canada, and a pharmacist can answer you.
Real pharmacy:
Asks for a prescription
Shows an address in Canada
Has a pharmacist you can reach
Shows normal prices
Fake pharmacy:
Does not ask for one
No address, or an address abroad
No one to talk to
Very low prices, « miracle cure »
How to check: in Quebec, look up the pharmacist’s name in the register of the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec. You should see their name and their place of work.
If you don’t see it: do not buy. Your neighbourhood pharmacy can often deliver or renew a prescription by phone.
Limitation: according to Health Canada, 96% of online pharmacies worldwide are not trustworthy, and 74% in North America. A good-looking website proves nothing.
To picture it: a serious online pharmacy follows the same rules as the one in your neighbourhood: prescription, pharmacist, address. A pharmacy that skips those steps is not following those rules.
Trusted links: Choosing a safe online pharmacy (Health Canada)