How NFC Can Help Pharmaceutical Brands Ensure Patient Safety

Between 8 percent and 15 percent of all medications sold internationally are either fake or not of the correct standard, according to the World Health Organization. Billions of counterfeit drugs are traded around the world, harming thousands of people every year, especially in developing countries. It is, therefore, crucial to find solutions to increase patient safety and security.

Near Field Communication, a wireless connectivity technology based on RFID, enables contactless communication between a reader and a tag. STMicroelectronics explains how NFC tags can be embedded in the packaging of medical supplies, such as medicines, vaccines or drug samples, to add wireless connectivity, allow pharmaceutical brands to track products worldwide, ensure authenticity, and create a two-way communication channel with consumers. (6 pages)

Download PDF