According to studies by the U.S. FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and IMS Health, within the pharmaceutical industry, counterfeiting, theft, and fraud can account for more than USD50 billion in annual losses to corporations. 10% or even more of all drugs are counterfeit worldwide. Counterfeiting techniques are becoming more sophisticated and fakes are passing into the legitimate supply chain unnoticed.

The FDA established the Counterfeit Drug Task Force in 2003 which explores the use of modern technology to fight this increasing problem, and to protect consumers against the dangers of counterfeit drugs.

Analytical Spectral Devices (ASD) tackled this issue in 2004 with the release of its RxSpec near-infrared (NIR) technology for drug verification. According to ASD, the system uses patented technology to directly inspect a drug while in the dispensing vial and validate that the correct drug and quantity are being dispensed. It uses sophisticated analytical and imaging technology to examine the chemical composition and dosage of the drug, then compare that information to a database of approved FDA drugs, and confirm that the drugs are in compliance with the FDA.

Since its introduction, RxSpec technology has checked more than 2.5 million prescriptions effectively and has successfully distinguished between drugs that may look identical, but in fact have different formulations or dosages.

The portable RxSpec 700Z was recently introduced by ASD which easily and cost effectively can get rid of the increasing problem of fakes in the supply chain and the harmful effects of counterfeit drugs.  It is expected to be a useful device for not only pharmaceutical companies but for Customs and Border Control agencies as well and provides the ability to test questionable drugs when and where desired.  Some features of RxSpec NIR technology include: real-time results, true portability, AC/DC operation and no sample preparation or waste.