Google Fine

The US DOJ fined Google $500 million for allowing advertising by Canadian pharmacies. According to the New York Times:

Google was aware that some Canadian pharmacies that advertised on its site failed to require a prescription for substances like the painkiller Oxycontin and the stimulant Ritalin. Google continued to accept their money and assisted the pharmacies in placing ads and improving their Web sites, according to the Justice Department.

Sorry, but I fail to see the problem.

One can find almost anything on Google (and other search engines) including items that may be illegal.

If you want to gamble, you can find sites on Google.

If you want to engage in illicit sex, you can find sites on Google.

If you want to research people or places with the intent of planning a crime, you can do so on Google.

Why target online pharmacy's?

After Google became aware of the investigation, it has required that all Canadian pharmacy advertisers be certified by the Canadian International Pharmacy Association and has specified that they can advertise to Canadian customers only. American pharmacy advertisers must be certified by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy.

Google had previously relied on the private firms Square Trade and PharmacyChecker.com to certify pharmacy advertisers

For years I have been recommending Blue Sky Drugs to clients and friends as well as using them personally. The savings are significant.

Just last week I helped a new client save over $100 per month on Lipitor.

Blue Sky is certified by CIPA.