Pharmaceutical Supply Chain in the US – Advances in RFID and ePedigree Systems to Limit Drug Counterfeits

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Pharmaceutical Supply Chain in the US - Advances in RFID and ePedigree Systems to Limit Drug Counterfeits

The top three wholesalers in the US, AmerisourceBergen Corporation, Cardinal Health and McKesson Corporation, accounted for 86.7% of the overall US pharmaceutical market in 2011 and combined revenue of $295.2 billion. Various supply chain models are followed across the pharmaceutical industry, such as traditional wholesaler models, limited distribution models and direct distribution models. Pharmaceutical companies are now focusing on supply chains as a value-adding process rather than viewing them as a money drain, which was the scenario in the past. Managing a supply chain is a complicated task, as there are a number of issues that can affect performance and disrupt product and information flow.

Counterfeits have emerged as the greatest threat to the smooth functioning of the supply chain in the US. The recent case of fake Avastin entering the legitimate supply chain has raised concerns over administrative abilities, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken numerous steps to track and trace counterfeits. The state of California has implemented the E-pedigree model and announced implementation deadlines for wholesalers, manufacturers and pharmacies. In 2009, 1,742 drugs were recalled by FDA, for a range of reasons such as quality of raw materials, defective labeling, packaging issues and contaminated products. Over-the-counter (OTC) and generic products account for the most recalls.

- Key issues facing the pharmaceutical supply chain in the US

- Analysis of strategies adopted by pharmaceutical manufacturers and wholesalers to remain competitive

- Key parameters which are considered for rejuvenating the existing supply chain

- Profiles of key pharmaceutical supply chain management companies

- Emerging technologies being developed for anti-counterfeit operations.

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Pharmaceutical Supply Chain in the US - Advances in RFID and ePedigree Systems to Limit Drug Counterfeits