A Review on Online Pharmacy

Abstract

E-pharmacy is a rapidly growing sector in India, driven by increasing internet penetration and consumer demand for convenient access to medicines. Online pharmacies offer numerous benefits, including home delivery, cost savings, and improved medication adherence. However, they also present challenges such as the risk of self-medication, drug abuse, counterfeit medicines, and regulatory concerns, particularly for Schedule H and X drugs. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated the adoption of e-pharmacies, highlighting their importance in ensuring access to essential medicines while raising concerns about patient safety and data security. Despite these risks, e-pharmacies provide significant advantages, such as enhanced accessibility, reduced travel time and costs, and informed decision-making for consumers. However, approximately 95% of online pharmacies operate illegally, distributing counterfeit and expired medicines. The rapid expansion of e-pharmacies requires stringent regulatory frameworks to ensure quality, safety, and ethical compliance. Policymakers must address challenges such as patient privacy, regulatory adherence, and equitable healthcare access, especially in underserved regions. The Indian government has taken initiatives to Due to the COVID-19 lockdown; a significant number of consumers have shifted to purchasing medications online. Governments are implementing crucial measures to safeguard lives, including lockdowns, testing, isolation, and treatment efforts. As the infection continues to spread globally, people are limiting their outdoor activities. E-commerce is steadily expanding in both wholesale and retail sectors. E-commerce businesses have observed a surge in orders, with customer activity increasing by around 20-30%.q