QR codes made mandatory for 300 popular drug brands
PTC Web Desk: Starting from August 1, 2023, the use of QR codes has become mandatory for 300 popular drug brands. These QR codes will be incorporated on the packaging of medicines, including well-known brands like Dolo, Allegra, Athalin, Saridon, Limsey, and Calpol.
By scanning the QR code, buyers will gain access to essential information such as the manufacturing license and batch number. This measure is aimed at helping consumers verify the authenticity of the medicines they purchase, effectively preventing the circulation of counterfeit products in the market.
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The Drugs Control General of India (DCGI) has issued stringent instructions to pharmaceutical companies, requiring them to comply with the new guidelines. Under these orders, well-known drug brands must incorporate a bar code or QR code on their medicine packaging. The DCGI has explicitly warned that failure to adhere to these instructions may result in substantial fines for the companies.
The notification states that the manufacturers of drug formulation products listed in Schedule H2 must include a Bar Code or Quick Response Code on their primary packaging label. In cases where there is insufficient space on the primary package label, the code can be placed on the secondary package label. The purpose of this code is to store data or information that can be read using a software application, which will help facilitate authentication and ensure the genuineness of the product. This measure is introduced to enhance drug safety and combat the distribution of counterfeit medicines.
- With inputs from agencies
