Is PubMed the same as MEDLINE?

No. PubMed includes MEDLINE citations and other records; use NLM Catalog to check journal-level information.

Can indexing status change?

Yes. Journals can be added, discontinued, or have partial coverage.

Is a journal website logo enough?

No. Verify the claim in the official database.

Indexing verification

How do I check if a journal is indexed?

Use the official database named by the journal. Do not rely on screenshots, logos, or copied “indexed in” lists on the journal website.

Maintained by the Beallslists.com editorial review team · Last reviewed: June 19, 2026

PubMed / MEDLINE

Use NLM Catalog. Check the journal title, ISSN, and whether it is currently indexed in MEDLINE or deposited in PMC.

Scopus

Use the official Scopus source lookup. Confirm current coverage and watch for discontinued titles.

Web of Science

Use the Master Journal List and Journal Citation Reports when checking Web of Science or JIF claims.

DOAJ

Search DOAJ for open access journal listing and transparency information.

ISSN match

Compare ISSN, title, publisher, and domain. Hijacked journals often misuse real journal identities.

Common indexing traps

Some journals say “PubMed indexed” when only selected article citations are visible, or they say “Scopus indexed” based on old coverage. Others use fake impact-factor badges or databases with names similar to official services. Always verify in the official source and record the date of your check.

For a deeper explanation, read verifying indexing claims and misleading metrics.

Useful external references

Use official databases and recognized publishing-ethics resources before making a submission decision. External links are provided for verification and do not replace your institution’s policy.