Low-cost Portable Raman Instrument, a Tool toward Counterfeit Medication Identification

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Spectroscopy
• Public Health

Background:

• Counterfeit medications pose a significant threat, particularly in low-income regions.
• Portable and affordable analytical tools are needed for drug quality control in resource-limited settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a low-cost, portable Raman spectrometer for identifying counterfeit drugs.
• To demonstrate the feasibility of using consumer electronics for building such a device.

Main Methods:

• Construction of a portable Raman spectrometer prototype using scavenged consumer electronics.
• Cost analysis, with the prototype built for under 500 CHF.
• Proof-of-concept analysis of over-the-counter drugs.

Main Results:

• Successful development of a functional, low-cost portable Raman spectrometer.
• Identification of acetaminophen, a common analgesic, in multiple over-the-counter drug samples.
• Demonstration of the instrument's potential for real-world application.

Conclusions:

• A cost-effective portable Raman spectrometer can be built from readily available components.
• This technology offers a viable solution for combating counterfeit medications in underserved areas.
• The developed instrument can aid in ensuring pharmaceutical quality and public safety globally.