Blog Post


Counterfeit drugs - Putting the whole world at risk

Adapt Ideations • Jun 03, 2019

Peter Pitts, president of The Center for Medicine in the Public Interest estimates that counterfeit drugs are now a $75 billion industry.

Consider how hopeless you would feel seeing your child or someone close to you suffering from a deadly illness. You are told it is malaria, one of the deadliest diseases. Considering the doctor prescribed medicine for malaria, your loved one has a chance of survival. How would you feel if your loved one didn't survive even after taking the medicine? The reality is that the counterfeit drug industry is worth billions of dollars. According to an article by BBC News, the World Health Organisation states more than 120,000 people a year die in Africa as a result of fake anti-malarial drugs alone, that either does not meet the standards of the drug or contain no active ingredients, meaning that they have little to no impact. Unbelievably the counterfeit drugs find their way into pharmacies, clinics and street vendor stores, mostly undetected.  
 
The World Health Organisation, estimates that 1 in 10 medical products circulating in low and middle-income countries is either substandard or falsified. Peter Pitts, president of The Center for Medicine in the Public Interest estimates that counterfeit drugs are now a $75 billion industry.  
 
Large pharmaceutical companies are worried about counterfeiting. For them, this is an issue of trust and reputation. Even though the government and companies have been able to eliminate counterfeiting to some degree, the problem is still ongoing and does occur.  
   
Yes, the answer is blockchain. By implementing emerging technology such as blockchain, the number of stolen and counterfeit pharmaceuticals can be greatly reduced. Blockchain’s attributes can restore trust in our supply chains, businesses, and governments. The technology itself acts as an encrypted, unalterable permanent record or ledger in a centralised network that can only be altered by concerned parties allowing greater trust in partnerships to grow.  
 
Adapt Ideations has developed a smart asset tracking device. The device empowers employers to digitally track their temperature-sensitive inventory and assets allowing each consignment to be tracked from origin to destination, thereby preventing theft and other related loss. Our smart asset tracking solution allows production flow to be improved, and greater optimisation of the supply chain. The solution effectively allows for easier intervention to take place immediately when a violation has occurred as near real-time data is relayed. With the use of the smart temperature-sensitive asset tracking device, data is collected allowing it to later be analysed in order to make smart business decisions. No longer are the days of making decisions on a whim.  

Enquire today to start your trial and understand the difference our smart asset tracking solution can make.  

Powerful and reliable, asset tracking and monitoring solutions.

Innovative monitoring solutions for high-value & temperature-sensitive assets.

Share Our Post.

Awards & Recognition


A silver laurel wreath with the words india biologics and vaccines awards 2022 written inside of it.

Best Temperature Monitoring Solution Provider


Awarded by India Biologics & Vaccines Outstanding Industry Awards 2022

A silver leader recognition badge with a star and laurel wreath.

Adapt Ideations Recognised As A Supply Chain Leader


by Alcott Global on Supplify's Supply Chain Tech Map 2.0

A silver laurel wreath with a star and the words `` technology excellence in cold chain ''.

Technology Excellence in Cold Chain


Awarded at the 15th ELSC Leadership Awards


elscconclave.com

Related Articles.

02 May, 2024
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.
Seamless integration of multiple transport modes ensures optimal resource allocation, reducing lags
22 Feb, 2024
Explore the transformative power of end-to-end visibility in last-mile delivery. Embrace efficiency, security, and sustainability with Adapt Ideations' IoT solutions.
17 Jan, 2024
Navigate global supply chain compliance challenges with Adapt Ideations' IoT enabled KELVIN and PIXEL devices. Real-time visibility for efficient, secure, and sustainable logistics.
there are many different types of pills and bottles on the table .
By Adapt Ideations 14 Dec, 2023
Explore the imperative of securing global pharmaceutical supply chains. Discover real-time track and trace solutions with Adapt Ideations for enhanced efficiency and compliance.
By Adapt Ideations 11 Dec, 2023
Unlock the secrets of global vaccine distribution! From US triumphs to South American innovations. Explore game-changing solutions for pharmaceutical challenges.
Cold Chain
By Adapt Ideations 06 Dec, 2023
Explore sustainable cold chain logistics with real-time monitoring solutions. Discover Adapt Ideations' IoT devices for efficient, eco-friendly, and compliant supply chains.
Show More

Our Guides.

Logistical Transportation
By Adapt Ideations 26 Oct, 2023
Cold Chain Risk Management with our comprehensive guide. Learn to safeguard temperature-sensitive products and streamline your supply chain.
Master cold chain compliance in the US
By Adapt Ideations 18 Oct, 2023
Master cold chain compliance with our guide. Ensure seamless logistics in the US, optimizing temperature control for perishable goods' safety.
By Adapt Ideations 27 Jul, 2023
Unlock & master FDA perishable compliance effortlessly! Learn with the ultimate guide to easy traceability. Achieve end-to-end visibility! Read and act now.
Show More
Share by: