Security printing, RFID and related mechanisms to address counterfeiting and others supply chain fraud depend on the stick (investigation, evidence, prosecution) and the carrot (reward for compliance). The carrot is readily addressed through variable data printing.

The stick must be wielded carefully. This is the goal of the Partnership for Safe Medicines:

http://www.safemedicines.org/

And, they even provide a helpful acronym, "LEADER" for pharmacists (http://www.safemedicines.org/leaders-guide-for-pharmacists.html):

"The World Health Organization estimates that as much as 10 percent of medicines sold worldwide are counterfeit...It is important for all pharmacists to be aware of the dangers of counterfeit drugs, as well as be able to recognize and help prevent counterfeit drugs from reaching patients...Here are six steps for becoming a L.E.A.D.E.R. in the fight to protect patient safety.

Learn about contraband and counterfeit drugs.

Educate customers.

Avoid unsafe medicines and vendors

Decline suspicious offers.  (Partnership for Safe Medicine claims of 365 pharmacies on-line, only 2 are legitimate).

Evaluate your medicines.

Report counterfeit drugs and suspicious vendors."

Good advice. This kind of education goes a long way. Successful anti-counterfeiting ecosystems are designed with a good estimate of the compliance rate. Education like that provided by PSM may not increase compliance, but it makes those pre-disposed for compliance more effective. Remember that 2x2 is equal to 4 just as 2+2 is. If the same number of users are compliant, but are on average twice as effective, the brand and the patient both win.

Cheers,

Steve

(Pipo Caban, gracias para la informacion acerca de PSM)