MM Packaging gathers experts in their field to lay the foundations for the conversation about counterfeit pharmaceuticals; looking into the realities, impact, and potential solutions to this pandemic of problems. This article provides a detailed overview of the approaches taken to understand, tackle, and prevent the threat of counterfeit drugs – by looking deeper at the two-way street between consumers and the corporations.

The issue of counterfeit pharmaceuticals is a critical global problem with significant implications for both public health and the economy. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), counterfeit products represent about 10% of total market sales in some regions. In the European Union, this figure is around 2%, yet it still costs the economy approximately 10 billion euros annually. This economic impact translates into a loss of around 38,000 jobs within the industry each year.

One of the most alarming aspects of this issue is the impact on health and safety. The WHO estimates that counterfeit drugs contribute to around a million deaths globally per year. The rise of online and e-commerce platforms has exacerbated the situation, allowing consumers to bypass traditional healthcare systems and access drugs from potentially untrustworthy sources. This shift has opened new trade routes for counterfeiters worldwide.

We bring together Yann Ischi, Vice President and General Manager, Product Authentication at Crane Currency, Claire Clark, the director of healthcare engagement at GS1, along with Philip Allen, technical account manager, and Laura Lopez, marketing manager from MM Packaging to discuss and dissect these pressing matters.