Experts warn of dangers of online drug renewals

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An online service that offers prescription drugs without a visit to a GP has been launched amid warnings it could put patients at risk.

Health experts have expressed concern that doctors are selling drugs on the internet without meeting patients face to face or without access to their medical records.

NSW-based prescription service Doctus promotes itself as a convenient and safe alternative to visiting the GP. It offers 450 medications that have ”minimal potential for abuse or adverse side effects”, including drugs for blood pressure, cholesterol, emphysema, asthma, STDs and non-narcotic pain relief.

Patients complete an online questionnaire that is reviewed by a doctor. If approved, they are charged $25 for the prescription plus the cost of buying the drugs and postage.