Blog Post
Battling the sensitivity of chemicals: How cold storage monitoring can enhance the effectiveness of chemicals for the pharmaceutical industry
Adapt Ideations • Jul 20, 2020
The viability of the chemicals used in the pharmaceutical industry is very volatile due to their temperature-sensitive nature.
The chemical industry is one of the most valuable industries in the market, both through its revenue turnover and value it provides to other industries. The chemical industry caters to many industries, including the pharmaceutical industry. The US IndustryGov
reported the final sales of the chemical industry in 2018 to being worth over USD 765 billion. Similarly, the pharmaceutical industry is projected to be worth USD 1170 billion in 2021, as reported by the Business Research Company 2018.
Both these industries produce high annual turnovers and greatly contribute to the economy. The chemical and pharmaceutical industry is highly interdependent with each other as the compounds in medicine are all essentially chemicals. The viability of the chemicals used in the pharmaceutical industry is very volatile due to their temperature-sensitive nature. Cold storage monitoring of chemicals and medications in warehousing would be an ideal solution to alleviating issues of temperature sensitivity. Further, a smart cold storage monitoring solution would further alleviate issues relating to temperature deviations.
The most common chemicals used in medicine such as Panadol or Advil are atorvastatin, fluticasone and clopidogrel are all temperature-sensitive. This means that these chemicals, and consequently the medication must be kept at a controlled temperature to maintain its effectiveness. For the most common medicines listed above, the required temperature is between 20-25 degrees celsius, as reported by PharmacyTimes 2015. Alkylating chemicals such as Alkylsulfonates or Busulfan, which are used in chemotherapy require more stringent adherence to temperature sensitivity. Valuable chemicals used in more critical cases such as for cancer treatment are usually kept at 15 degrees. Even the slightest temperature deviation would render the medication unviable. Ineffective or misused medication costs the pharmaceutical industry USD 70 billion annually, as reported by BioPharmaDive 2018.
This consequently affects the sales of the chemical industry which supplies chemicals to the pharmaceutical industry, thus creating a negative domino effect.
Smart cold storage monitoring solutions will revolutionise the way chemicals and medications are stored and monitored in warehouses, and enhance the effectiveness of the drugs. A study conducted by associate professor Dr Sarah Westberg of the University of Minnesota in 2012, found that medication such as nitroglycerin, which is commonly used to treat chest pain in people with cardiovascular diseases decreases in its efficacy if it is exposed to prolonged heat. However, most alarmingly, it was found that perished medications may not physically show their deterioration and often be sold in that state to customers unknowingly. This demonstrates the importance of cold storage monitoring of chemicals for the pharmaceutical industry, as these issues are often traced back to warehouses.
Adapt Ideations wireless temperature monitoring system PIXEL
offers a viable solution for the monitoring of chemicals in cold storages such as warehouses. The smart wireless monitoring system offers a holistic solution to enhancing the effectiveness of the chemicals present in pharmaceutical drugs. Adapt Ideations smart wireless monitoring system monitors the temperature, humidity and pressure levels of warehouses, cold storage areas, and refrigerators in storage. Near-real-time alerts are sent back if temperature, humidity or pressure excursions occur. Adapt Ideations smart temperature monitoring system PIXEL, would greatly benefit the chemical and pharmaceutical industry as it would enable them to monitor the viability of the drugs, to ensure its effectiveness.
Get in touch with us today
to enquire about our wireless temperature monitoring system and how it can benefit your company.
Powerful and reliable, asset tracking and monitoring solutions.
Innovative monitoring solutions for high-value & temperature-sensitive assets.
Share Our Post.
Awards & Recognition
Best Temperature Monitoring Solution Provider
Awarded by India Biologics & Vaccines Outstanding Industry Awards 2022
Adapt Ideations Recognised As A Supply Chain Leader
by Alcott Global on Supplify's Supply Chain Tech Map 2.0
Related Articles.
Temperature-controlled logistics is a crucial aspect of global supply chains, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry. Maintaining the correct temperature during transportation is not just a logistical issue but also a critical factor in ensuring the safety and efficacy of life-saving vaccines and other temperature-sensitive products. As the demand for temperature-sensitive products like vaccines and biologics continues to surge, ensuring their safe transportation is paramount. Any deviation in temperature during transit can compromise the efficacy of these products, leading to significant financial losses and potential health risks. This blog delves into the evolution of temperature-controlled logistics, critical challenges faced in this sector, and groundbreaking innovations that address these challenges. With a focus on real-time monitoring through IoT solutions, we aim to showcase the advancements that contribute to the efficiency and compliance of global pharmaceutical supply chains. Evolution of Temperature-Controlled Logistics Temperature control has undergone a remarkable transformation in the last two decades. Stringent global regulations, customer demand for new temperature ranges, emerging markets with extreme temperatures, and the growing value of drugs like biologics have been essential driving forces. These factors have spurred the evolution of temperature-controlled logistics to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. The landscape of temperature-controlled logistics is evolving, thanks to technological advancements. Trends include the growing availability of prequalified shippers simplifying the validation process, sophisticated supply chain services, a rising interest in reusable packaging, and advances in temperature-monitoring technology. These innovations contribute to the industry's ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic environment. Temperature-controlled logistics involves managing the flow of products through a cold chain. Divided into food and pharmaceutical sectors, the global market size of cold chain logistics is projected to grow significantly. From USD 242.39 billion in 2021 to USD 647.47 billion by 2028, exhibiting a CAGR of 15.1%, the industry is expanding rapidly, reflecting its critical role in modern commerce. 3 Key Challenges in Temperature-Controlled Logistics Compliance Issues Stringent Regulatory Standards: Global temperature-controlled logistics operates within a framework of strict regulations set by health and safety authorities. Meeting diverse regulatory requirements across international borders poses a significant challenge for companies in this sector. Documentation & Reporting: Compliance involves meticulous documentation and reporting of temperature-sensitive shipments. Keeping up with the evolving documentation standards requires streamlined processes and robust systems. Validation & Qualification: Ensuring the validation and qualification of equipment and processes according to regulatory standards is an ongoing challenge. The need for continuous validation adds complexity and time constraints to logistics operations. Risks of Temperature Deviations Product Integrity: Temperature-sensitive products, especially pharmaceuticals and biologics, are highly susceptible to temperature deviations. Even brief exposure to temperature breaches during transit can compromise the integrity and efficacy of these products. Financial Implications: Temperature deviations can lead to significant financial losses for companies. Replacing or disposing of compromised products and potential legal repercussions contribute to financial challenges. Supply Chain Disruptions: Temperature deviations can disrupt the entire supply chain, leading to delays in product availability. This not only affects businesses but can have critical implications for healthcare providers and patients relying on timely access to medications. Security & Theft Concerns Value of Cargo: Temperature-sensitive cargo, such as pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and high-value perishable goods, can become a target for theft. The significant value of these products heightens security concerns throughout the supply chain. Vulnerability During Transit: The vulnerability of cargo during transit, particularly in unsecured areas, poses a constant risk. The potential for theft during transportation adds complexity to securing temperature-controlled shipments. Need for Tracking & Monitoring: Ensuring the security of temperature-sensitive cargo requires robust tracking and monitoring systems. Integrating security features, such as real-time location tracking and tamper-evident technologies, is essential to mitigate theft risks. In navigating the intricate landscape of temperature-controlled logistics, companies must address these multifaceted challenges to uphold compliance, safeguard product integrity, and ensure the security of valuable shipments. Innovative solutions, such as advanced monitoring technologies and comprehensive security measures, are crucial in overcoming these challenges and fostering a resilient and efficient supply chain.
Explore the transformative power of end-to-end visibility in last-mile delivery. Embrace efficiency, security, and sustainability with Adapt Ideations' IoT solutions.
Navigate global supply chain compliance challenges with Adapt Ideations' IoT enabled KELVIN and PIXEL devices. Real-time visibility for efficient, secure, and sustainable logistics.
Explore the imperative of securing global pharmaceutical supply chains. Discover real-time track and trace solutions with Adapt Ideations for enhanced efficiency and compliance.
Unlock the secrets of global vaccine distribution! From US triumphs to South American innovations. Explore game-changing solutions for pharmaceutical challenges.
Explore sustainable cold chain logistics with real-time monitoring solutions. Discover Adapt Ideations' IoT devices for efficient, eco-friendly, and compliant supply chains.
Our Guides.
Cold Chain Risk Management with our comprehensive guide. Learn to safeguard temperature-sensitive products and streamline your supply chain.
Master cold chain compliance with our guide. Ensure seamless logistics in the US, optimizing temperature control for perishable goods' safety.
Unlock & master FDA perishable compliance effortlessly! Learn with the ultimate guide to easy traceability. Achieve end-to-end visibility! Read and act now.
Sign up to our monthly newsletter!
H.No.1-89/G/36, 3rd Floor, Plot No.36, Mindspace, Shilpi Valley, Madhapur, Hyderabad – 500081, India