Finding time to go to see the doctor can be challenging, but when that visit would involve an uncomfortable topic like erectile dysfunction (ED), putting off making that appointment does not seem like such a big deal. Using an online pharmacy that isn’t asking too many questions seems like the best, most discreet solution to your problems.
However, most online pharmacies aren’t really pharmacies, and the fewer embarrassing questions they ask, the more likely they are to be fake pharmacies. And fake pharmacies sell fake drugs. When the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) reviewed nearly 11,500 internet drug outlets, they found just over 4% to comply with U.S. pharmacy laws and standards that are in place to protect your health. According to one study, 77% of the Viagra purchased from pharmacy websites was counterfeit.
As preferable as avoiding the topic of ED with your doctor appears to be, the truth is your ED might be a symptom of a bigger problem, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or Multiple Sclerosis. Having that awkward conversation could save your life.
It may not seem like a big deal if your little blue pills are not 100% legit, but you should have real concerns about has been found in the fake ones. Laboratory analysis of fake Viagra pills found ingredients such as printer ink, amphetamines, too much or too little of the active ingredient (either of which can do you harm), drywall, brick dust, rat poison, road paint, and ingredients not listed that might cause a dangerous and deadly reaction to another medication that you are taking. Additionally, you also put yourself at risk for contracting a fungal and bacterial infection if the counterfeit pills were manufactured in unsanitary conditions.
The relief that you feel by purchasing those pills via the anonymity of the internet cuts both ways. The people and criminal organizations who run those websites are relieved too. For them, it is not only a payday. When someone suffers any serious consequences from taking their pills, there is little that authorities can do to hold them accountable.
If you have already spoken to your doctor, but the thought of picking up your prescription at your local pharmacy is stopping you, your best option is to fill your prescription at any online pharmacy whose website address ends in .pharmacy. The NABP, a nonprofit association that protects public health and offers programs that promote safe pharmacy practices, manages the .pharmacy domain. An online pharmacy can only receive and keep their .pharmacy address if they are operating safely, legitimately, and in accordance with NABP standards.
