Generalization of modern experience of control against the distribution of counterfeit medicines in highly developed countries

Abstract

One of the most dangerous forms of counterfeit products is counterfeit medicines. In recent years, there has been a marked increase in the production, trade and consumption of such drugs – often with dangerous and in some cases fatal consequences. The World Health Organization (WHO) receives reports of substandard or counterfeit medicines used in various areas of the health care system, from cancer to contraception. The range of products is counterfeit medicines is not limited to expensive drugs or well-known brands, and is distributed approximately equally between generic drugs and patented products.

Aim. To analyze modern methods of fighting the spread of counterfeit medicines in highly developed countries.

Results. A study of the peculiarities of the organization of state quality control of medicines and pharmaceutical activities in the field of fighting the spread of counterfeit medicines in highly developed countries (USA,Canada,Japan, etc.). Among the methods of counteracting drug falsification and preventing the spread of counterfeit medicines, in the developed economies we studied, the introduction of information technology to collect information about counterfeit medicines, codification of drug packaging, the introduction of software to work in the health care system and directly in pharmacies, raising public awareness about counterfeit medicines.

Conclusions. Factors that contribute to the active spread of counterfeit medicines in developed countries are the uncontrolled activities of online pharmacies, insufficient public awareness of all health risks from the purchase of counterfeit medicines, insufficiently controlled drug supply chains at all stages. The likelihood of an increase in counterfeit medicines acquisition depends on statistical and geospatial factors that should be considered when planning measures to combat counterfeit medicines proliferation. The real state of the counterfeit medicines spread is exacerbated by the fact that none of the countries we studied has signed or ratified the Council of Europe Convention on Counterfeit Medical Products and Similar Crimes Threatening the Health of the Population. Generalization and use of international experience will improve the methods of fighting the drug counterfeiting in Ukraine.