13 June 2012 - The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy(r), in conjunction with a global coalition of stakeholders, has applied to own and operate the new .PHARMACY generic Top-Level Domain, with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers.

It was revealed yesterday that the organisation aims to establish the .PHARMACY space as a secure and trustworthy destination where consumers can be sure that the medications they buy online are authentic and safe.

NABP president, Michael A. Burleson, RPh, said, 'The .PHARMACY registry will help us to further protect patients who choose to purchase medications online. We will do this by vetting all registrants prior to acceptance so as to ensure that they meet all applicable regulatory standards, including pharmacy licensure, drug authenticity, and valid prescription requirements. NABP is uniquely positioned to accomplish this due to its long history of protecting patients from illegal pharmacies through its VIPPS(r) (Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites) accreditation program, which has been accrediting online pharmacies since 1999. Additionally, through its Internet Drug Outlet Identification program, NABP has reviewed more than 9,800 Web sites selling prescription drugs to determine if they are operating legitimately. A list of the 'Not Recommended' sites, as well as a list of VIPPS pharmacies, is available for consumers to review and make an educated choice about where they can safely purchase their medications.'