RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track objects. In pharmaceuticals, RFID enhances inventory management by enabling real-time tracking of medications. It ensures accurate stock levels, monitors expiration dates, prevents counterfeiting, reduces waste, and significantly improves compliance and patient safety.

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology does not decrease the efficacy of medications. Here’s why:

1. Low Power and Frequency: RFID systems operate using low-power radio waves, typically in the LF (125–134 kHz), HF (13.56 MHz), or UHF (860–960 MHz) bands. These levels are insufficient to cause any chemical or physical changes to pharmaceutical compounds.

2. No Evidence of Interference: There is no scientific evidence or reported cases indicating that RFID waves impact the stability or effectiveness of medications. Studies and real-world applications in hospitals and pharmacies have successfully used RFID without adverse effects on drug quality.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) | FDA

"The FDA is not aware of any adverse events associated with RFID."

Evaluation of Thermal and Nonthermal Effects of UHF RFID Exposure on Biological Drugs | IEEE Journals & Magazine | IEEE Xplore

"Radiated powers several times higher than recommended by current normative limits were applied (10 and 20 W)...The results obtained for a particular case study, the ActrapidTM human insulin preparation, showed temperature increases lower than 0.5 °C and no significant changes in the structure and performance of the considered drug."

Fresenius Kabi appears to be the industry-leader in pre-RFID tagged, pre-programmed medications. Home | +RFID, Fresenius Kabi US

Other manufacturers, such as Purdue, GSK, Merck, and Novartis have run pilot programs.

Reach out to your suppliers to see what RFID-tagged meds they offer!

Leave your contact information in the form on the Home page and we can discuss running a pilot at your facility!

Pre-requisites:

1. Commitment to purchase pre-tagged medications

2. Live on Willow Inventory

3. 3 hrs/week bandwidth of the Willow Inventory analyst

4. Current accurate waste reporting data

5. Appetite for innovation