With hundreds of drug-dispensing Websites in business, how can consumers tell which sites are legitimate ones, especially when it is very easy to set up a site that is very professional looking and promises deep discounts or a minimum of hassles?

Here are some tips to consumers who buy health products online:

Avoid sites that do not identify with whom you are dealing and do not provide an address and phone number to contact if there's a problem.

Don't do business with sites that have no access to a registered pharmacist to answer questions.

Beware of sites that advertise a "new cure" for a serious disorder or a quick cure-all for a wide range of ailments.

Be careful of sites that use impressive-sounding terminology to disguise a lack of good science or those that claim the government, the medical profession, or research scientists have conspired to suppress a product.

Steer clear of sites that include undocumented case histories claiming "amazing" results.

Talk to your health-care professional before using any medications for the first time.