Bengaluru: Indian pharmaceutical industry faces significant challenges with counterfeit drugs, which undermine patient safety and impact the sector’s integrity. In response, there has been a growing push towards innovative authentication solutions to combat this issue.
Some of the technologies being explored are blockchain and smart packaging which incorporate QR (quick response) codes, RFID (radio frequency identification) tags, and NFC (near field communication). All these are used in packaging, allowing the end-users to verify the authenticity of a product. In addition, some companies are developing digital platforms that use identifiers or digital certificates to verify the authenticity of drugs. These are integrated with existing supply chain systems to provide a user-friendly interface for verification.
Even serialization combined with robust data management systems helps in identifying and preventing counterfeit drugs from entering the market. Techniques like spectrometry and chromatography can analyze drug samples to confirm their authenticity. These methods are used in quality control labs to ensure that drugs meet required specifications and are free from counterfeit components.
The adoption of these innovative solutions aims to safeguard public health and restore confidence in the pharmaceutical industry. By leveraging technology and improving systems, the industry can better protect consumers from the risks associated with counterfeit drugs, said ASPA.
Puneet Maithani, associate director of industry affairs at the Authentication Solution Providers’ Association (ASPA), delving into ASPA: Leading the Fight Against Counterfeiting and Ensuring Product Authenticity’ at the ASIA Security Conference & Exhibition, Anti-Counterfeiting, Trademark & Brand Protection emphasized the urgency of the counterfeiting problem.
He highlighted ASPA’s mission to combat it through innovative authentication solutions. Our programs have been crucial in spreading knowledge and fostering a proactive approach to combating counterfeit goods.
Advocacy and industry partnerships are essential components of ASPA’s strategy. It is here industry will need to collaborate to develop best practices for anti-counterfeiting.
Research is another cornerstone of ASPA’s efforts. Puneet showcased studies and reports produced by ASPA, including the ASPA-CRISIL State of Counterfeiting report in India, which provides valuable insights to inform strategies against counterfeiting.
Maithani highlighted the advanced solutions ASPA members offer, such as security design, holograms, security inks, track and trace systems, NFC/RFID, and blockchain technologies, protecting over 15,000 brands worldwide.
Manoj Kochar, ASPA president and IHMA board member, presented on the newly launched Security Image Register. This innovative tool designed to enhance the protection of Optical Variable Devices (OVDs) through advanced image registration technology.
Maithani emphasized the need for industry stakeholders to opt for ASPA membership, which provides access to the latest technologies, research, and a robust network of industry experts—resources invaluable for companies in the fight against counterfeiting. He underscored the critical role of awareness and the indispensable support of brand owners in the ongoing battle against counterfeit goods.
