We have become socialized to accept the possibility that a pill has the potential to provide us with whatever change it is we are seeking in our lives. Simply watching television on any given day, allows distributors to bombard us with advertisements attempting to sell us potions/drugs designed to:
– Keep us alert
- Help us fall asleep “naturally”
– Lose weight
– Enhance and alter our moods
- Improve sexual performance and pleasure
– Make us more attractive to the opposite sex
– Cause our eyelashes to grow longer
- Improve our memory
And, the list goes on. Buying into this concept has obvious risks; nevertheless, the consumer typically receives a long laundry list of warnings and potential negative side effects that can result from using the product. At this point, the consumer can decide whether or not the risk is worth taking. Unfortunately desire for instant gratification tends to outweigh safety concerns and the warnings mostly go unheeded.
However, the playing field changes dramatically when we’re dealing with prescription pharmaceuticals. Consumers can not afford to apply the same cavalier attitude toward prescription drugs as we’ve become accustomed to when regarding the easy access, and lowered cost of non-prescriptive “remedies”. Research reveals that the majority of individuals, who view TV drug ads, overlook two important facts; first, that a proper diagnosis by a medical professional is required before the medication can be recommended, and second, that a valid prescription must be obtained from the authorized medical professional before the drug can be purchased.
Many consumers tend to take matters into their own hands by believing they know what their symptoms indicate, and feel warranted by TV and print ads to obtain and use certain pharmaceuticals. As the phrase goes, “DON’T TRY THIS AT HOME”. Remember, there are no substitutes for seeing a medical professional, receiving a diagnosis and obtaining a verified prescription – if necessary. Any other plan of action, such as self-diagnosing and self-medicating is far too risky and definitely not recommended. For those who are using non prescriptive potions/drugs, we strongly advise that you take the list of potential side effects seriously.
For those who are in need of prescription medications, we caution you to avoid shortcuts when it comes to your health. Work closely with an authorized medical professional to receive a thorough examination before obtaining and taking any medication.
Finally, make use of independent online services such as LegitScript.com to determine if your pharmacy is operating legally. There are far too many illegitimate pharmacies and distributers in operation, dispensing questionable and often counterfeit product. Remember to be cautious, act wisely and stay safe.
Author’s Biography:
John Horton is President and Founder of LegitScript, and a former aide in the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). After five years working for the “Drug Czar,” John Horton founded LegitScript with the intent of helping people be sure that they are buying safe and genuine prescription medication on the Internet. LegitScript, is an internet enforcement service group, that has been successfully investigating sites to determine whether or not such sites are in compliance with the law and accepted standards of medical and pharmacy practice ethics.