Blockchain-Based Solutions as an Anticounterfeit-Measure in Pharmaceutical Supply Chains
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School of Business |
Bachelor's thesis
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Authors
Date
2023
Department
Major/Subject
Mcode
Degree programme
Tieto- ja palvelujohtaminen
Language
en
Pages
17 + 5
Series
Abstract
Counterfeit medicines are a significant problem in pharmaceutical supply chains around the world and can pose serious health risks to patients. One of the main reasons is the high demand for affordable medicines. Many counterfeit medicines are cheaper than genuine drugs, making them attractive to consumers who cannot afford the high cost of prescription medications. Counterfeiters take advantage of this by producing fake drugs that mimic the appearance of genuine pharmaceuticals and sell them at a lower cost. Another reason for the prevalence of counterfeit medicines in the pharmaceutical supply chain is the complex nature of the global drug supply chain. Pharmaceuticals are often manufactured and distributed across multiple countries, and they go through various intermediaries before they reach the end-users. This complexity provides opportunities for counterfeiters to infiltrate the supply chain and introduce fake drugs into the system. Furthermore, inadequate regulations and enforcement measures in many countries make it easier for counterfeiters to operate. The lack of strong regulatory frameworks means that counterfeiters can produce and distribute fake drugs without fear of punishment. To solve this issue, researchers have proposed blockchain-based tracking solutions. The use of blockchain technology can help prevent counterfeit drugs from entering the market, as the transparency and immutability features of blockchain can ensure that the products are genuine and have not been tampered with. The purpose of this thesis is to explore the possibilities of blockchain technology as an anticounterfeit measure in pharmaceutical supply chains.Description
Thesis advisor
Kauppi, KatriKeywords
blockchain, pharma, counterfeit, supply chain, medicine