The global surge in counterfeit medicines is a growing public health crisis, especially in low- and middle-income countries. New tools and digital platforms are emerging to help consumers and pharmacists verify drug authenticity in real time, aiming to curb this dangerous trend.
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The proliferation of fake medicines has become a silent but deadly threat to global health systems. According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 10 medical products in developing countries is substandard or falsified. These counterfeit drugs not only fail to treat illnesses but may also contain harmful substances, risking lives and fueling drug resistance.
India, being one of the largest drug markets globally, has witnessed a concerning rise in substandard or fake pharmaceuticals. In response, health regulators and researchers have turned to technology to combat this menace. One such innovation is the digital verification of medicines using QR codes, mobile applications, and blockchain-backed solutions that track supply chains.
The West Bengal Government’s initiative via wbpay.in has shown how localized verification systems can empower the public to check the validity of medicines before use. Users can scan a QR code or enter batch information to confirm the drug’s origin, manufacturer, and regulatory compliance.
In a 2025 peer-reviewed article published in Frontiers in Medicine, researchers emphasize the urgency of integrating digital verification tools into public health systems. Their findings point to a need for better education, cross-border cooperation, and AI-supported platforms to detect anomalies in the pharmaceutical supply chain.
The responsibility, however, doesn’t lie with authorities alone. Pharmacists, healthcare providers, and consumers must remain vigilant and report suspicious drugs. Simple steps like checking packaging, spelling errors, expiration dates, and purchasing only from licensed pharmacies can go a long way in ensuring safety.
Source:-httpsverify.pharmasecure.com
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Verify packaging and batch numbers via QR or online portals.
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Buy from reputable pharmacies—avoid unverified online sellers.
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Check for spelling mistakes, faded printing, or odd logos.
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Confirm manufacturer details on the drug package.
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Report any suspicious or ineffective medication to the nearest health authority.
