Online pharmacies in Ireland provide the same professional service you would expect in store when they are registered and operating under Irish law. A few quick checks help you confirm that a website is genuine before you place an order. Once you know what to look for, ordering becomes straightforward, with secure payment, delivery options, and easy access to a pharmacist for advice.
How to confirm a genuine Irish pharmacy
Start by finding the legal trading name and the geographic address on the website. Search the name on the PSI public register, which lists all retail pharmacy businesses in Ireland. A genuine site shows phone and email contact details and explains how to speak with a pharmacist. If a site offers prescription only medicines without asking for a valid prescription, avoid it.
Non prescription medicines supplied online must appear on the PSI Internet Supply List, and the seller must be registered. If you cannot find any registration details, or the website hides behind only a contact form, choose a different provider.
How prescriptions are handled online
For prescription medicines, a valid Irish prescription is required. Doctors can send this directly to the pharmacy using Healthmail, which is a secure clinical email service for healthcare professionals. If you do not yet have a prescription and your condition is suitable for remote assessment, you can consider an online doctor.
What good service looks like
Trustworthy sites describe the order journey in plain language. Expect clear delivery timelines & options for collection. Look for opening hours and a phone number so you can speak to a pharmacist about side effects & interactions if necessary.
Transparent pricing helps you plan. Review our prescription prices, and ask for a quote if you are unsure. For a simple walkthrough of submitting a prescription and arranging delivery or collection, see how to order a prescription online in Ireland.
Common red flags
Be cautious if the site ships any prescription medicine without a script, quotes only international delivery, or lists a virtual mailbox rather than a pharmacy address in Ireland. A lack of access to a pharmacist is another warning sign. If in doubt, search the PSI register or call the number on the site to confirm details before ordering.
Comparing providers fairly
Compare like for like. Look at the same medicine, strength and pack size. Note delivery timeframes and whether there is a collection option. Check whether the site provides counselling by phone and whether follow up questions are welcomed. Many pharmacies publish service standards such as call response time or delivery windows, which helps you judge what to expect.
When to contact a pharmacist or doctor urgently
Use the contact details on the pharmacy website if you are unsure about dose, miss a dose, notice side effects, or need device support. Seek urgent medical help if you experience severe reactions such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or chest pain. Pharmacists can advise on next steps and whether you should attend a doctor or emergency department.
FAQs
Is it legal to buy prescription medicines online in Ireland?
Yes, when you use a registered Irish pharmacy and provide a valid prescription.
Can my doctor email the prescription to a pharmacy?
Yes. Doctors can send prescriptions securely using Healthmail.
How do I spot a genuine site quickly?
Check for an Irish address, a phone number, and a listing on the PSI public register.
Do online orders cost more?
No. State schemes such as the Drugs Payment Scheme and medical card charges apply in the usual way.
Can I talk to a pharmacist?
Yes. Registered pharmacies provide access to a pharmacist by phone or in person for advice.
New to ordering online? See how to order a prescription online in Ireland for a step by step overview, read about prescription delivery in Ireland, or check prescription costs in 2025 for budgeting tips.
