Pharmacies are retail establishment where prescription medications as well as health related products are available. They are also known as a Chemist or Druggist. In order to run a pharmacy one has to procure drug license from the competent authority. Otherwise the operation of the pharmacy is termed as "illegal". The people who work in pharmacies are known as pharmacist. They should ideally be trained professionals who should know the pros and cons of medication and allied health business. Various Universities and institutions offer bachelors degree in pharmacy. A pharmacist ideally should be a holder of the said degree.

   Some or all of the following products are normally available at pharmacies. Like, Baby, child and skin care, Vitamins and supplements, personal care and bath materials.

   Products, which are related to sexual health like condoms, female contraceptives, sanitary napkins, Viagra, lubricants, sexual enhancers etc. are also normally available at pharmacies. With the influx of competition pharmacies are also selling various other health related products apart from medicines for example soaps, facial cleansers, deodorants, facial moisturizers, hair and foot care items, hosieries etc. Some pharmacies also has diabetes and cholesterol information centers too.

   Nowadays pharmacies are spreading their business by going online. Yes, we are talking about online pharmacies, which are becoming very popular due to certain keys merits. There are price advantages; facility of home delivery of medicines and the best part of it is that one can order the same from the convenience of his or her home. The patient has the option of paying by using a variety of credit cards. The transactions are also processed using a secure server. Options for consulting a physician online is also available. Then there are discount pharmacies which sells drugs and health related products at a much cheaper price.

   However it is important for a patient to keep in mind that an online consulting should not be used for the following purposes:
      * To treat a case of medical emergency
      * To treat a case where the patient is suffering acutely
      * Provide a final verdict pertaining to a patient's health.

   Decide, and start practicing a treatment plan