ABSTRACT

Counterfeit medicines present a dire threat to global health, with far-reaching implications for patient safety and public well-being. This research delves into the multifaceted impact of fake medicines and proposes a groundbreaking approach to their detection using blockchain technology (BCT) within the Metaverse, specifically on the polygon blockchain. Counterfeit drugs not only jeopardize individual health but also undermine healthcare systems, erode public trust, and fuel criminal enterprises. Leveraging the attributes of the polygon blockchain, such as scalability and low transaction fees, we present a robust framework for tracing and verifying the authenticity of pharmaceutical products within the Metaverse. Through the tokenization of medicines as nonfungible tokens and the utilization of smart contracts, a secure and decentralized system is established, empowering users to authenticate medicines and participate in a transparent marketplace. The integration of QR codes or NFC tags enhances user engagement, while real-time tracking and data transparency foster informed decision-making. By exploring the dynamic synergy of BCT, the Metaverse, and the polygon blockchain, this research contributes a comprehensive solution to the urgent challenge of counterfeit medicine, paving the way for a safer and more trustworthy pharmaceutical ecosystem.