1 in 6 Americans have purchased drugs online without a prescription

An estimated 36 million Americans have purchased at least one prescription drug online without a doctor's prescription, according to research presented this week by the Partnership at Drugfree.org. The nonprofit organization noted that illegal online drug sellers—known as rogue Internet pharmacies—expose consumers to counterfeit and unapproved medications. We recently found drugs from rogue pharmacies that were potentially lethal, including narcotic painkillers, drugs to treat epilepsy and ADHD, and supposed generic versions of big-name drugs such as Avodart, Crestor, Cymbalta, and Nexium.

It's no secret that millions of Americans are worried about medical expenses. Our May 2010 poll found that in the past year, 39 percent of adults reported taking some action to reduce drug costs. But many of those steps—such as failing to take a drug as prescribed, not filling a prescription, taking an expired drug, or sharing a prescription—are risky. So buying a less expensive medication online might seem like a good option, right? Maybe…if you get a prescription from a doctor who knows you first. But buying one without that crucial step puts you at risk for potentially dangerous fake, contaminated, or unapproved drugs. The Food and Drug Administration is taking steps to reduce those threats. Last year, it sent warning letters to 136 rogue pharmacies.

You can protect yourself by purchasing only from legitimate online pharmacies. Start by looking for those accredited by the VIPPS programs, developed by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. You can also safely save money on prescription drugs by checking with grocery and big-box stores, such as Costco and Walmart, and looking for $4 or other discount-generic program. Websites like AARP.org, CVS.com, Familymeds.com and Homemed.com also offer inexpensive choices. Finally, our free Best Buy Drugs reports offer cost-saving advice on medications in dozens of drug categories, including antidepressants, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and sedatives.   

—Ginger Skinner, web associate editor

Read more on the truth behind rogue online pharmacies, and take a look at some safe, simple ways to reduce your prescription drug costs, including asking for generics and splitting your pills (but always be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist first).