In a pioneering move to ensure drug safety and curb the circulation of counterfeit medicines, Kerala is rolling out a new mobile application “MedWatch” that empowers citizens to verify the authenticity and quality of medicines purchased from pharmacies.
The app, to be developed under the aegis of Kerala State Drugs Control Department, allows users to scan the QR code on medicine packaging to access critical information, including the drug’s approval status by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), manufacturing details, batch number, expiry date, and laboratory test results confirming its safety for consumption.
This initiative is aimed at preventing the sale of counterfeit drugs and is a significant step towards safeguarding public health by providing vital information about drug quality. “The app will bridge the gap between consumers and the pharmaceutical industry, ultimately fostering a healthier, more informed society,” said a senior officer of the drugs control department.
As per the official details, the drugs control department has initiated the process for selecting a startup to develop the MedWatch app. An official document reveals that the department has approached Kerala Startup Mission for selecting the startup.
“This application is a significant step towards empowering consumers and ensuring that the medicines they consume are genuine and safe. It reflects our commitment to leveraging technology for better healthcare delivery,” said the official.
The app’s database will be integrated with all testing labs in the country. Users can also report any discrepancies or suspected counterfeit medicines directly through the app, enabling prompt action by regulatory authorities.
