online pharmacies

[charlesrpearson]

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Hey, what do you think about websites like http://americangenericpharmacy.com where patients are not required to have a doctor’s approval in order to get medication? All that’s needed is a questionnaire. Can anyone think of pros or cons of this?

 

[ernievdb]

I believe a better question would be: Are there any Pros? The list of cons is endless...just a couple of examples:

1. How can you possibly tell what is wrong with someone without seeing them?
2. How many people actually can describe their symptoms?
3. How do you counsel a patient on their medication?
4. Who keeps track of the meds they receive from an actual pharmacy?
5. Who do you hold accountable for drug interactions and errors?

As I said..this list is endless, and basically online healthcare is a bad idea in general.

 

[uclasushi]

I'm actually writing a paper on this topic right now for my pharmaceutical policy class (due tomorrow).

There are mostly cons for online pharmacies, as ernievdb mentioned previously. Another con is that because most online pharmacies operate outside of the United States, the safety of the drug is not guaranteed. Also, the "doctor" that approves your online questionniare and prescribes the medication may not be licensed in your state, if they are even licensed. Not to mention, is is illegal to prescribe without a valid prescription.

I guess ther are some pros for the consumer. Online pharmacies are cheaper, it may be more convienent, it helps them avoid any potential embarrassment that they may feel if they walked into a regular pharmacy, and it increases access to people living in really remote and rural areas.

 

[Praziquantel86]

I think you need to stop plugging your website.

 

[Kruton]

I think you need to stop plugging your website.

This man knows whats up.