Which security label features are useful for pharmaceutical packaging?

Useful pharmaceutical security features can include serialised QR, Data Matrix, or barcode labels where track-and-trace is required, tamper-evident VOID or destructible constructions where visible opening evidence is needed, and overt or covert authentication features such as holograms or UV elements for anti-counterfeit protection. The right combination depends on the product, risk level, market, and applicable regulation.

For Indian export drug formulations, current DGFT track-and-trace and barcode provisions should be checked to determine the applicable identifier and packaging level; GS1 standards are commonly used in these systems. Other markets may impose different serialisation or verification requirements. Serialisation can also support diversion detection and supply-chain visibility even where a particular security feature is not mandatory.

Tamper evidence and authentication address different risks: tamper-evident labels show whether a pack has been opened, while holographic or covert features help verify origin. Whether any particular construction is required should be confirmed by regulatory affairs for the specific medicine and target market. Avoid presenting a generic VOID, honeycomb, or holographic feature as universally required for pharmaceutical packaging.