Does Scanning a QR Code on Medicine Packaging Really Confirm Authenticity? Here's the Truth

Imagine buying a medicine, scanning a small QR code on the packaging, and instantly knowing whether it’s genuine or potentially fake. Sounds futuristic? Well, in India, it's already happening — and it's part of a major step to protect public health.

In recent years, counterfeit and substandard medicines have become a serious global concern. To tackle this, India’s health authorities have introduced a smart solution — QR codes and barcodes on the packaging of many medicines. But how does this system work, and can it really help you verify the authenticity of your medicines? Let’s break it down in simple terms.

The Problem of Counterfeit Medicines

Fake or substandard medicines can have dangerous consequences. They may lack the right ingredients, contain harmful substances, or simply be ineffective — putting patients at serious risk. Recognizing this growing threat, the Indian government has taken proactive measures to make medicines more traceable and trustworthy.

The QR Code Solution for Medicines in India

In November 2022, the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, in collaboration with the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), implemented a mandate requiring QR codes or barcodes on the packaging of certain medicines.

This regulation initially applied to India’s top 300 drug brands — including household names like Dolo, Calpol, and Shelcal — with the goal of enhancing product traceability and giving consumers a quick, reliable way to check the authenticity of their medicines.

 What Happens When You Scan the QR Code?

The QR code, printed on the medicine’s primary or secondary packaging, contains essential product information such as:

• Unique product identification code
   
• Proper and generic name of the medicine
   
• Brand name
   
• Manufacturer’s name and address
   
• Batch number
   
• Manufacturing date
   
• Expiry date
   
• Manufacturing license number
   

When you scan the code using a reliable app or scanner, this information appears on your screen, often linked to an official database or website.

What if the Scan Shows ‘No Records Found’?

If the system cannot find any matching records for the scanned code, or if the displayed information doesn’t align with what’s printed on the packaging, it raises a red flag — the product could be fake or unapproved.

Strengthening the System: Enhanced QR Code Features

To stay ahead of counterfeiters, Indian authorities and pharmaceutical companies are constantly improving QR code technology. Reports suggest that additional security measures — such as encrypted data and even holographic elements — are being considered to make it even harder to replicate medicine packaging fraudulently.

Reference: Learn more about India's initiative on medicine traceability from the CDSCO official updates.

How Can You Use This as a Consumer?

If you purchase a medicine that has a QR code on its packaging:

1. Use a reliable QR code scanner app or your smartphone’s camera (if supported).

1. Scan the code and check the product details.

1. Compare the displayed information with the packaging.
    
2. If details are missing, incorrect, or the system shows "no records found," avoid using the product and inform the pharmacist or authorities.

One Bharat Pharmacy's Commitment to Safe Medicines

At One Bharat Pharmacy, your health is our top priority. That’s why we only source medicines from licensed and authorized suppliers, ensuring every product meets the necessary quality standards. We fully support and promote traceability practices like QR codes to help our customers feel confident about their medicines — whether purchasing within India or through our international medicine shipping services to the USA.

Explore our trusted pharmacy here: onebharatpharmacy.com

Final Thoughts

Yes, scanning a QR code on your medicine's packaging can help verify its authenticity — provided the system is implemented properly and the consumer knows how to use it. It’s not a foolproof solution yet, but it’s a significant step toward protecting people from counterfeit medicines.

Always buy medicines from reliable sources and take advantage of technology to stay safe. Your health deserves nothing less.