The drug e-labeling and information provision service functions by electronically delivering drug attachment documents. (Image courtesy of MFDS)
CHEONAN, Nov. 14 (Korea Bizwire) – The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) has recently announced plans to gradually broaden the scope of items covered by the Drug E-Labeling and Information Provision Service. This initiative, initially operated as a pilot project, is set to expand starting next year.
The MFDS noted that Japan implemented a drug e-labeling system exempting paper attachments for specialized drugs in 2021. Meanwhile, various countries like Europe, Singapore, Taiwan, and others are currently in the phase of conducting pilot projects.
The drug e-labeling and information provision service functions by electronically delivering drug attachment documents, typically provided on paper, through QR codes affixed to containers or packaging.
This service has been under pilot implementation since April of this year, covering 27 types (from 10 pharmaceutical companies) of injectable drugs administered directly by medical institutions. Notably, it was recognized as one of the top 100 food and drug regulatory innovation projects announced by MFDS last year.
Since last month, the Korea Food and Drug Administration (KFDA) has been comprehensively assessing the effectiveness of this system for consumers, industry, healthcare professionals, and consumer awareness. Based on these evaluations, the program is scheduled for a gradual expansion over the coming year.
Oh Yoo-kyung, head of the MFDS, emphasized, “This service aims to establish an environment where consumers and medical professionals can promptly and efficiently access the most recent drug safety information. It’s a low-carbon, eco-friendly system enhancing information readability for consumers while conserving resources.”
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
