Pharma's Flirtation With RFID — Will There Be A Second Date By Bret Kinsella, ODIN technologies

You've heard about Pfizer RFID tagging Viagra shipments. You may have heard about Perdue tagging bottles of Oxycontin. You may also have heard the FDA's gentle recommendations in support of RFID. And, if you are really on top of things, you may also know that Florida and California drug pedigree laws can be supported by RFID. But unless you have been following the story closely, you are likely to have more questions than answers. Here are some answers.

Why does Pharma care about RFID
This isn't your Wal-Mart's RFID program. The Pharmaceutical industry, from the FDA to pharmacies to distributors and especially manufacturers are concerned about counterfeiting and public health. While Wal-Mart frets about lost sales due to stock-outs and drools over potential inventory handling efficiencies, the Pharma industry is concerned about authentication and patient safety. While Wal-Mart looks for goodies, Pharma chases evils.