Revolutionizing the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain with Blockchain Technology
The pharmaceutical industry is critical to public health but faces threats from counterfeit drugs and lack of supply chain transparency. The NEXUS project, funded by The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, leverages cutting-edge blockchain technology to ensure authenticity and trust in pharmaceutical products. By integrating real-time tracking, smart contracts, and consumer-friendly features, NEXUS represents a paradigm shift in drug safety.
– To combat counterfeit drugs using blockchain technology. – To provide real-time visibility into the pharmaceutical supply chain. – To empower consumers with tools to verify drug authenticity.
Anticipated Outcomes
– Reduced counterfeit drugs in the market. – Enhanced consumer confidence in medications. – Improved operational efficiency for supply chain stakeholders.
Team
Principal Investigator: Dr. S. Sriram, spearheading innovation and research CO- Investigator: Mr C.D. Shakthivel, leading technical development and operational coordination Key Contributors: The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, Chennai Sri Ramakrishna Institute of Paramedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy – Coimbatore Acknowledgments: This project is supported through funding by The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, Chennai under the Theme-Based Research Initiative 2024.
Our Story
The NEXUS project was born from the pressing need to address counterfeit drugs in the global market. Supported by The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University and implemented at Sri Ramakrishna Institute of Paramedical Science, NEXUS showcases the transformative power of technology in healthcare.
Action: The manufacturer registers the product on the NEXUS blockchain.
Output: A unique QR code is generated for each product and batch.
Purpose: Ensures that all product details, including manufacturing and batch information, are immutable and traceable.
Warehouse
Dispatch and Tracking
Action: The manufacturer dispatches the products to warehouses.
Tracking Method: Warehouse staff scan the QR codes on batch cartons to update the blockchain with location and shipment details.
Purpose: Adds transparency and real-time tracking from the warehouse to distributors.
Distributor
Distribution to Pharmacies
Action: Distributors receive the products and scan the QR codes to confirm receipt.
Tracking Method: Blockchain auto-updates shipment details as products are dispatched to pharmacies.
Purpose: Prevents counterfeit insertion at the wholesale level.
Pharmacy
Stocking and Consumer Readiness
Action: Retail pharmacies receive the products and scan QR codes to log inventory.
Tracking Method: Blockchain records product arrival, stock updates, and shelf life.
Purpose: Ensures traceability and readiness for consumer purchase.
Consumer
Verification and Purchase
Action: Consumers scan the QR code on the product via a mobile app.
Features:
Verification of product authenticity.
Access to detailed drug information, including expiration date, manufacturer, and potential side effects.
Purpose: Empowers consumers with transparency and builds trust in the product.
Consumer Benefits
NEXUS ensures the safety and authenticity of pharmaceuticals through advanced blockchain technology. With real-time tracking and QR code verification, consumers can easily verify the legitimacy of their medications. This transparency helps reduce the risk of counterfeit products and builds trust.
