AstraZeneca stamping out counterfeiting

This move has been prompted by the need to prevent tampering and illegal counterfeiting which, according to product manager Kunesha Chetty, is a disturbing trend that the company is determined to stamp out.

Chetty says that figures published by the global Pharmacy Security Institute show that counterfeiting incidents have more than doubled between 2005 and 2007 which is alarming considering that counterfeiting medicines can kill and present a very real public health risk.

“For this reason from August 2008 Meronem® will be sold in unit packs with the TESS,” adds Chetty.

The TESS consists of a holographic image that alternates, when turned, with the word ‘OK' next to a tick and the word ‘Genuine'. The TESS has also been printed with ‘AstraZeneca' and the company logo. The holographic seal and logo is also a unique visual display of the product's authenticity.

“The holographic seal being applied to Meronem® cartons will allow doctors and patients to quickly and easily see whether or not the product has been opened or tampered with in any way. AstraZeneca will only be able to guarantee the contents of the pack if the security seal has not been broken. The new packaging is an essential and important aspect of ensuring the safety and authenticity of the medication,” says Chetty.

“As the new TESS packs begin to penetrate the market the old packs will be phased out - a process we anticipate being complete by the end of October 2008. That said, during the introduction of the TESS packs, products without the seal can still be considered authentic,” adds Chetty.

Meronem® is used in a wide variety of infections, including in cases of pneumonia, septicemia and meningitis and is usually used in patients who have been admitted to hospital with serious infections. World demand for antibacterial antibiotics is high, due to escalating resistance and the increased risk of serious infections in both immunosuppressed patients and ageing populations.

AstraZeneca is an international healthcare organisation engaged in the research, development, manufacture and marketing of variety of prescription pharmaceuticals as well as the supply of healthcare services. It is one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies with a range of products in seven therapeutic areas, including gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neuroscience, respiratory, oncology, pain and anesthesia and infection. In South Africa it has been ranked the fastest growing pharmaceutical company.

For any information on Meronem® or the new security seals contact Kunesha Chetty on 011 797-6000.