Current Status and Challenges of Serialization in Pharma Industry

Abstract

Access to safe and quality medicines to all is long stated goal of healthcare agencies across the globe. Pharmaceutical industry has reached the new milestones with respect to quality of the manufactured medicines due to combined efforts of all - industries, regulators, international agencies etc. However merely manufacturing of quality medicines does not necessarily guarantee its access to those in need. In fact, more organized efforts are required to control the counterfeit medicine trade which is finding easy access to the countries in the world, especially middle or low income countries having weak legal framework of drug regulations. Pharmaceutical serialization is proving to be critical tool to help control the illegal trade across the globe. Though serialization and subsequent aggregation is getting good pace in recent time, the implementation of the system is having some challenges. Adaptation of the serialization, its current status and the difficulties involved for industry is discussed in the current review.