Survey Result for E-labeling Initiatives in Asia

• Published in: Therapeutic innovation & regulatory science 2023-03, Vol.57 (2), p.251-260
• Main Authors: Matsui, Rie, Yamaguchi, Koji, Lee, Jadz Jevz Venzon, Ting, Ivy, Khairilisani, Destita, Chang, Jenny, Seo, Jeong-Min, Park, Ina, Chee, Alice Seat Mee, Quizon, Paul Marvin, Harnpramukkul, Usanee, Sem, Ellen, Nguyen, Thuy, Padhye, Anagha, Mo, Runyi
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Asia; COVID-19; Digital transformation; Drug Safety and Pharmacovigilance; Health care; Health Personnel; Humans; Labeling; Medical electronics; Medicine; Original Research; Pandemics; Pharmaceutical Preparations; Pharmaceuticals; Pharmacotherapy; Pharmacy; Product information; Regional development; Surveys
• ISSN: 2168-4790; 2168-4804
• DOI: 10.1007/s43441-022-00462-5

Under the COVID-19 pandemic, various electronic labeling initiatives have accelerated worldwide in the healthcare and pharmaceutical fields as part of a wider digital transformation [ 1 , 2 ]. Although there is no universal definition of electronic labeling (e-labeling) globally, it is widely understood that e-labeling refers to the product information that is distributed via electronic means. There are 5 factors to be considered in e-labeling, and these are discussed in this publication. APAC is an industry-driven initiative with 13 R&D-based pharmaceutical associations joining from 11 markets in Asia. e-labeling was discussed as a new topic starting in 2020, and a 22-question survey was conducted in November 2021 to understand the current e-labeling status. The survey results showed that e-labeling initiatives were at different levels of maturity in the Asian region, although most markets have started to discuss e-labeling initiatives. Various challenges exist around e-labeling initiatives due to a variety of different approaches being taken in the region. It would be advisable to develop regional guidance on how to proceed with e-labeling initiatives in the Asian region to have a consistent and efficient approach. The close collaboration between agencies, Health Care Professionals (HCPs), patients, and industry associations is important to move e-labeling initiatives forward in Asia.