Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Encyclopedia of Evidence in Pharmaceutical Public Health and Health Services Research in Pharmacy |
Editors | Zaheer-Ud-Din Babar |
Publisher | Springer, Cham |
Pages | 1-15 |
Number of pages | 15 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9783030502478 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | E-pub ahead of print - 26 May 2023 |
Abstract
Quality of medicine is a major challenge, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The factors contributing include weak regulatory capacity, the capacity of the pharmaceutical industry, supply chain issues, and technical manpower. This chapter presents the global research evidence related to the quality of medicines. This is presented in the form of reviews and research studies published on the topic. The chapter illustrates the global scenario regarding substandard and falsified medicines. The approaches to medicines testing are also discussed including field testing, visual inspection as well as the role of information technology. Consumer education about substandard and falsified medicines is also being discussed. The chapter concludes that the quality of medicines and other health products is a key healthcare concern, and it needs to be dealt with through a multistakeholder engagement process.