There have been many concerns raised about veterinary internet pharmaceutical companies and the integrity and quality of their medical products. Their products are being sold over the internet for the prevention and treatment of medical diseases. Many profess “discount” prices and shipment to your door, but beware of potential problems. There are some very important considerations to make before purchasing drugs over the internet. Realize that in this article I am only referring to veterinary products. This does not pertain to all internet pharmacies, only those who have acquired certain products that should only be purchased from your licensed veterinarian.

In a recent publication of the Journal of American Veterinary Medical Association, PetMed Express and Savemax internet pharmacies have been charged for operating an “alternate veterinarian program” that contracted with veterinarians to write prescriptions for animals they had never examined. They were also charged with selling drugs not approved by the Food and Drug Administration-both are illegal and unethical. These two pharmacies have both “accepted penalties, but did not admit guilt.”

QUALITY is the main concern with the purchase of any drug. The State Board of Pharmacy must approve Internet pharmacies for each state in which they distribute pharmaceuticals. Some of these products are originally sold to veterinarians and then illegally resold several times before arriving to the consumer. Storage and temperature control may be inadequate, which in some cases may render the product ineffective or toxic. If a problem did arise from using veterinary supplies purchased through an internet pharmacy, most drug companies will not guarantee, refund, or aid in further diagnostics or treatment. There is no regulatory agency like the State Board of Pharmacy of the American Animal Hospital Association that inspects such companies or oversees how these products are handled.

Products purchased through veterinary clinics are guaranteed, first by the veterinarian, and second by the manufacturer. They are shipped direct under a controlled environment so as to ensure quality of the product. This includes deworming medications, antibiotics, vaccinations, heartworm preventatives, or other veterinary supplies. If a problem does occur, most companies will stand behind their products.

One other consideration is most companies have a base price and then charge additional fees for shipping and handling. Please consider these things before making an internet purchase for prescription drugs. Your local veterinarians look forward to helping you with your pet’s needs and in giving them the highest quality of life for years to come.

Scott Carter, DVM
Mountain View Veterinary Health Center