The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) is responsible for overseeing the testing, manufacturing, and distribution of prescription drugs in the United States.

Drug companies in the United States operate in a free market and can charge whatever they want for their medications. The United States remains one of the few nations that do not regulate drug companies to help control costs. As a result, Americans are forced to pay exorbitant amounts of money for prescription medications.

With the internet's increased popularity as a source for goods and services, it was only a matter of time before Americans began to search for online sources of prescription drugs. The FDA is trying to do its part to safeguard the public from online pharmacies that may be less than reputable. Every market suffers its share of dishonest companies seeking to make a quick buck, but in the case of prescription drugs, the effects can be more serious than just loosing money.

The FDA has stated major concerns that people choosing to use an online pharmacy should be aware of. Among the most important is the need for a one-on-one physical exam by your doctor prior to taking any medication. Though a visit to your doctor is not always required by law, it is the smartest way to insure your safety, especially if you are taking a prescription drug for the first time.

Another concern is whether or not the drugs you are buying are FDA approved. You should only buy from pharmacies that supply FDA approved drugs (This applies only to pharmacies based in the United States. All U.S. pharmacies recommended on this web site advertise to sell only FDA approved medications).

The FDA also recommends that you check to see that the pharmacy posts their address and/or phone number on the web site, and that there is a means of contacting their pharmacist should you choose to do so.

It would surprise many to see that the FDA is not as close minded as you might expect with regard to Internet prescription drug sales. They recognize the benefits the Internet can offer individuals, such as convenience, privacy, and access to drugs for the disabled.

Their biggest gripe seems to be with the fact that many people will use the Internet to circumvent important safeguards such as proper supervision by a physician. Taking a prescription drug for the first time can cause side effects that may go unnoticed by the individual. A doctor might be able to spot these effects and adjust the dosage, or recommend you discontinue taking the drug.

The bottom line is that the FDA can only do so much. It will ultimately be up to you, the consumer, to be diligent and responsible when making choices regarding your prescription drug usage.