India's War Against Counterfeit Medicines - Fighting Pharma Fraud with Innovative Solutions

The recent news of counterfeit antibiotics supplied to government hospitals in Maharashtra, which were found to contain talcum powder and starch instead of actual medication, underscores the urgent need for robust measures against pharmaceutical fraud in India. This incident, involving an inter-state gang that has operated since 2021, highlights the critical risks posed by counterfeit drugs not only to public health but also to the integrity of the healthcare system. As authorities continue to unravel this operation, it is clear that stronger regulatory frameworks and advanced anti-counterfeiting technologies are essential in combating this pervasive issue.

State of Pharmaceutical Counterfeiting in India?

The state of pharmaceutical counterfeiting in India is a complex and concerning issue. While India is a major global supplier of generic drugs, it also faces a significant challenge with counterfeit and substandard medicines.?

Prevalence

A 2020 study by ASSOCHAM titled Fake and Counterfeit Drugs in India – Booming Biz revealed that counterfeit drugs accounted for approximately $4.25 billion (Rs 352 crore) of the Indian domestic drug market, which is valued between $14 billion and $17 billion (Rs 14 trillion).

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 10% of medicines in low- and middle-income countries are ineffective due to being substandard or falsified.?        

Impact

Counterfeit drugs can have serious health consequences, including illness, hospitalization, and even death. They often contain incorrect or insufficient active ingredients, or harmful substances.

Sources

Counterfeit drugs can originate from various sources, including illegal manufacturing facilities, unauthorized online pharmacies, and even some legitimate retail outlets.

Regulatory Efforts

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) is the regulatory body responsible for ensuring the quality and safety of drugs in India. They conduct inspections, sample testing, and take action against manufacturers and distributors found to be producing or selling counterfeit drugs.

CDSCO is responsible for ensuring the safety, quality, and efficacy of medical products in India. CDSCO publishes a monthly list of Drugs, Medical Devices, Vaccine and Cosmetics declared as spurious. Check out the latest list HERE.

Holostik Innovative Authentication Technologies - The Future of Authenticity

In light of these regulatory advancements, pharmaceutical companies are increasingly turning to modern technologies to enhance drug authentication. Holostik offers a range of anti-counterfeiting solutions, some of the key solutions for the pharma industry include:

Multi-layered Security Features:

• Holographic elements with 4th Generation OVDs
• Security Inks
• Various Overt, Covert & Forensic features

Smart Packaging Solutions:

• Holographic Packaging
• Temperature-Sensitive Indicators
• Tamper-Evident Seals
• Variable Data Printing - Serialization, Coding and more

Digital Authentication:

• Blockchain-based Track and Trace Solutions
• Real-Time Verification Systems
• Product Authentication Apps such as the Sure Assure app

Phygital Authentication - Bridging the Physical and Digital?

Phygital authentication is the future of product verification. By seamlessly blending physical and digital security features, this innovative approach offers a comprehensive solution to combat counterfeiting. With unique physical markers linked to digital verification systems, customers can easily authenticate products using their smartphones. This not only ensures product authenticity but also enhances brand trust, consumer engagement, and supply chain transparency. As technology continues to advance, phygital authentication will play a pivotal role in safeguarding brands and protecting consumers from fraudulent products.

Best Practices for Implementation

To effectively combat counterfeiting, pharmaceutical companies should adopt best practices that include:

• Layered Protection: Combining overt, covert and forensic security features while regularly updating them.
• Supply Chain Integration: Implementing end-to-end tracking systems with real-time monitoring capabilities.
• Consumer Education: Promoting easy authentication methods through public awareness campaigns and clear verification instructions.

The Road Ahead

As regulations tighten and technology evolves, pharmaceutical companies must remain vigilant in their fight against counterfeiting. Investing in advanced authentication solutions not only ensures compliance but also protects brand reputation, safeguards public health, maintains market trust, and prevents revenue loss.

The recent incident involving fake antibiotics serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by counterfeit drugs. By leveraging modern technologies alongside stringent regulatory measures like the Drugs and Cosmetics (Amendment) Act, India can create a more secure pharmaceutical landscape where patients receive genuine medications.

All in all, the combination of a strengthened regulatory framework and innovative anti-counterfeiting solutions provides a robust foundation for fighting pharmaceutical fraud. As stakeholders across the industry collaborate to implement these strategies, they will not only comply with legal requirements but also uphold their commitment to public health and safety.