The use of stable isotopes to prove authentication of manufacturing location

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a manufactured composition, material or device comprising at least two different nonradioactive isotope atoms. Each nonradioactive isotope atom is present in an amount sufficient to increase the total amount of the nonradioactive isotope atom above the total amount found in the manufactured composition, material or device in the absence of adding the nonradioactive isotope atom to increase said total amount. The ratio(s) of the at least two nonradioactive isotopes in the manufactured composition, material or device are measurably different than the ratio(s) found in the manufactured composition, material or device in the absence of adding the nonradioactive isotope atom to increase said total amount.

Description

Background technique [0001] Counterfeit pharmaceuticals, packaged foods (including baby formula), and other cash crops can lead to major safety concerns as well as major economic problems. Analytical techniques can often be used to verify the country of origin or authentication of active ingredients in pharmaceuticals. One of the most straightforward ways to detect counterfeit medicines is to analyze the characteristics of the product itself. This can be achieved using laboratory-based testing of purchased or seized samples. These analytical methods are especially effective when used to verify the active ingredient and chemical composition of the dosage form itself. Due to the complexity and time intensity of many of these approaches, it is not always possible to deploy these solutions in markets where counterfeit drugs are most prevalent. Some of these techniques include X-rays, atomic absorption, nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, liquid ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

For example, experts say counterfeit or adulterated food costs up to $40 billion a year and the problem is difficult to address due to large economic incentives