Before making a choice
What is a reason to pause?
An offer can leave you with more questions than answers. Use these checks to slow the conversation and ask for evidence.
No prescription for a prescription drug
As of September 2026, federal law bars the supply of prescription medicine unless a valid prescription is in place.
That order must come from a doctor or other health professional who is legally allowed to prescribe.
Read the basisUS law on prescription medicines
A prescription is that order for medicine.
Ask who discussed your joint problem with you and who wrote the order.
A research label presented as treatment
In letters reviewed through September 2026, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) told sellers that drug rules still apply to products offered as medicine for people, even when the label says “research use only”.
Read the basisFDA letter explaining intended use
The words “research use only” mark the product as intended for research. Ask who will discuss or examine your joint problem and explain why the medicine fits your care need.
A polished page can still leave facts unchecked
On health websites, seals that look official, logos and money-back guarantees can all be fake, says the Federal Trade Commission.
Read the basisUS consumer protection agency on health offers
Ask for the person’s name, the pharmacy’s name and a written account of the proposed product. A reply that avoids those details leaves the check unfinished.