How to buy medicine online in Pakistan without getting a fake
Buy only from a licensed pharmacy that shows a physical address and pharmacist, asks for a prescription when it should, gives an invoice, and delivers sealed packs, then scan the pack when it arrives. Online ordering is convenient and often safe, but it is also how many fakes reach homes.
Before you order
- Check who is sellingA real business name, a pharmacy address you can verify, a landline or official number, and ideally a licence number. A WhatsApp number alone is not enough.
- Prescription rules are a good signBeing asked for a prescription for antibiotics or controlled medicines is what a legitimate pharmacy does.
- Compare the priceEvery pack prints a maximum retail price. Large discounts on branded medicines, especially imported ones, are the classic lure.
- Avoid social media sellersPages selling "imported" weight-loss, fertility or strength products are a frequent source of unregistered and spurious items.
When it arrives
- Inspect the packagingIntact seal, clean printing, no re-glued flaps, leaflet inside.
- Match box and stripBatch and expiry on the outer box should match the strips or bottle.
- Scan before useScan the square code. The result also checks the batch against DRAP recall alerts.
If something is wrong
Do not use it. Message the seller with photos and ask for a replacement or refund, keep the pack and invoice, and report it. Pay with a method that offers a record, such as a bank transfer or card, rather than cash to an unknown courier.
Questions people ask
Is it legal to buy medicine online in Pakistan?
Medicines must be sold by licensed pharmacies. Many licensed pharmacies now take orders online and deliver. Selling medicines without a licence, including through social media pages, is not allowed.
Should an online pharmacy ask for my prescription?
For prescription-only medicines, yes. A seller who happily ships antibiotics, strong painkillers or hormones without asking for a prescription is a warning sign.
What should I do when the order arrives?
Check the seal, compare the batch and expiry on box and strip, and scan the square code before using it. If anything is wrong, contact the seller and do not use the medicine.
