How to Spot a Fake Online Pharmacy – Check the GPhC Register
In this guide
Buying medicines online? Always check the pharmacy is registered
Every legitimate pharmacy operating in Great Britain must be listed on the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) register. Fake online pharmacies operate illegally and can sell medicines that put your health at serious risk — so it only takes a moment to check before you buy.
How to check an online pharmacy is registered
Find their registration number
Look in the 'About us' section or the footer of the pharmacy's website.
Search the GPhC register
Search by pharmacy name or registration number and check the details match.
Only buy if listed
If a pharmacy isn't on the register, don't purchase medicines from it.
Weldricks Pharmacy is fully registered with the GPhC
You can verify our registration yourself at any time. Weldricks Pharmacy is registered under H. I. Weldrick Ltd, registration number 1091175, with a status of "Registered" and no notices or conditions attached.
View our GPhC registration →Why it matters
Medicines bought from unregistered sellers, without input from a UK-registered healthcare professional, can be genuinely dangerous. Fake medicines have been found with the wrong ingredients or dosage — and in some cases with harmful contaminants such as mercury, arsenic, rat poison or cement. Beyond the health risk, using a fake online pharmacy can also expose you to card fraud or identity theft.
10 warning signs of a fake online pharmacy
Source: MHRA
Help stop fake pharmacies
A GPhC Inspector explains why it's important to check the pharmacy register before buying medicines online.
Spotted a suspicious seller?
You can report a suspicious online seller of medicines to the MHRA, or use the Yellow Card scheme to report unsafe medicines.
Published 2nd July 2026 by
Allan Green
Registered Pharmacist & Head of E-commerce
Allan has been a Registered Pharmacist for 25+ years
He specializes in Ecommerce and Over the Counter medicines.
He is a Registered Pharmacist, who studied at University of Bradford.
He has been with Weldricks since 2006, starting as a branch manager before moving into area management and deputy superintendent roles.
His current responsibilities include web development, marketing, content, customer service and web operations teams.