Traceability and Verification to Prevent Counterfeit Drugs: A Secure, Efficient Pharma Supply Chain with IoT-Enabled Blockchain and Smart Contracts

Abstract

Currently, the stakeholders involved in the pharma supply chain are manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and patients. The process is excessively complicated, offers minimum transparency and accountability, and appears poorly protected from counterfeiting. This paper proposes a novel integration of Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, blockchain technology, and Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), creating a transparent, immutable ledger that ensures the authenticity and visibility of drugs throughout the supply chain. IoT sensors provide real-time tracking of environmental conditions and moments of drugs, while blockchain technology ensures a secure, tamper-proof record of every transaction, enhancing traceability through the supply chain. Role-Based Access Control strengthens security by limiting access to sensitive data according to the roles of different stakeholders. The use of Smart contracts simplifies processes, as it removes intermediaries and ensures secure transaction histories. This integrated approach addresses counterfeiting and transforms pharmaceutical supply chain management by improving transparency, security, and efficiency. Enhanced blockchain performance facilitates more effective drug delivery, ultimately improving patient outcomes. By utilizing these advanced technologies, the proposed system significantly reduces risks associated with counterfeiting and supply chain disturbances, ensuring the delivery of safe and effective medications to patients.