CDSCO Combating Counterfeit Medicine
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is intensifying efforts to combat counterfeit medicines in India by expanding its mandate for QR codes on pharmaceutical packaging. Initially applied to the top 300 drug brands, this requirement is set to encompass a broader range of products, enhancing drug traceability and ensuring consumer safety.
Understanding the CDSCO QR Code Mandate
Effective August 1, 2023, the CDSCO requires manufacturers to include QR codes on specified drug formulations. These codes must contain essential information such as:
- Unique product identification code as for the CDSCO Notification 17th Nov. 2022
- Unique product identification code;
- Proper and generic name of the drug;
- Brand name;
- Name and address of the manufacturer;
- Batch number;
- Date of manufacturing;
- Date of expiry; and
- Manufacturing licence number.
This initiative aims to enhance the authenticity and traceability of medicines, thereby protecting public health.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
While specific penalties for non-compliance are not detailed, the CDSCO has previously taken action against manufacturers failing to meet quality standards, including product recalls. Non-adherence to the QR code mandate could result in similar enforcement measures, emphasizing the importance of compliance for all pharmaceutical manufacturers.
Advantages of QR Codes Over Traditional Barcodes
QR codes offer several benefits compared to traditional barcodes, making them more suitable for pharmaceutical applications:
- Higher Data Capacity: QR codes can store extensive information, aligning with CDSCO's comprehensive data requirements.
- Space Efficiency: Their compact design fits well on limited packaging spaces.
- Flexible Scanning: QR codes can be scanned very easily, enhancing usability in various settings.
- Adaptability: They can accommodate additional data fields, supporting future regulatory requirements.
These features make QR codes a robust solution for ensuring drug authenticity and compliance.
Implementing QR Codes with Brandwise
For pharmaceutical companies, integrating QR codes into existing packaging processes may seem challenging. Brandwise offers solutions to streamline this transition, ensuring compliance with CDSCO regulations while enhancing operational efficiency.
By adopting Brandwise technology, manufacturers not only comply with regulatory mandates but also contribute to a safer pharmaceutical market, fostering greater consumer trust and safeguarding public health.
Summary & Next Steps
This is a commendable initiative by CDSCO, paving the way for a better society and fostering a foundation for future innovations. However, when it comes to ensuring product authenticity, relying solely on serial numbers or back-end data may fall short. Advanced technologies like encryption, AI-powered domain monitoring, and product digital certificates at scale are the need of the hour.
Ciphercode.co has proudly pioneered the world’s first authentication technology that redefines the limits of product verification. Premium brands can leverage Ciphercode’s cutting-edge solutions to transcend the limitations of simple QR codes and unlock unprecedented possibilities in product security and trust.
Rohaan Joseph
Marketing Executive at Ciphercode
Date
03 January 2025
