When to Use Pharmacode (Laetus)? Timing, Triggers and Alternatives for Packaging Control

Knowing when to use Pharmacode helps packaging teams apply the right tool for the right job. Pharmacode is a targeted verification technology designed to prevent packaging mistakes at specific moments in production rather than serve as a universal identification system. This article outlines the typical scenarios and triggers for using Pharmacode, explains when it may not be appropriate, and compares it to alternative technologies.

Ideal moments to use Pharmacode

• During changeovers and product setup — Changeovers are high-risk moments for incorrect component assembly. Use Pharmacode to confirm that the new carton, leaflet set, and labels match the intended SKU before full-speed production begins.
• On high-mix or multi-variant runs — When a line runs several similar products differing by language, dosage, or regional labeling, Pharmacode provides a quick verification signal to ensure correct component grouping.
• At critical assembly points — Use Pharmacode at insertion, sealing, or labeling stations where an incorrect component could lead to a serious mix-up or patient safety issue.
• When reading speed and robustness matter — If you require rapid scanning at high line speeds or expect variable print quality (e.g., shiny cartons, thermal-printed leaflets), Pharmacode's tolerance for imperfect printing can be advantageous.

Specific triggers and control logic

Pharmacode is typically linked to logic that defines accept/reject conditions. Common triggers include:

• Mismatched code — If the detected code does not match the expected value, the control system stops the line or diverts product for inspection.
• Missing code — No read when a code should be present causes a halt since the absence could indicate missing components or a printing failure.
• Duplicate or unexpected value — Unexpected integers can trigger alarms that prevent mixed packs from continuing down the line.

When Pharmacode is not the right choice

• When you need serialized traceability — Pharmacode does not carry batch, serial or expiration data. For regulatory serialization and full supply-chain traceability, you will need GS1 2D barcodes, Data Matrix, or serialized 1D barcodes.
• When consumer-facing identification is required — Pharmacode is intentionally small and often hidden; it is not a replacement for a product identifier visible to consumers and downstream partners.
• When data density is required — Pharmacode encodes a single integer. If you need to store multiple data elements (lot number, expiry date, serial number) on the package, choose a richer data carrier.

Use case scenarios

• Example 1: Language leaflet verification — A multinational drug manufacturer runs multiple language variants on the same line. For each carton, the leaflets carry a Pharmacode that maps to the language variant. The leaflet folder station scans the code; if it does not match the run order, the line stalls and operators correct the input.
• Example 2: Preventing blister-carton mix-ups — Blister strips and cartons for similar-strength products are nearly identical. A Pharmacode printed on blister edges ensures the right blister is paired with its carton; mismatches trigger divert gates before sealing.
• Example 3: Contract packing with many SKUs — A contract packer handling dozens of SKUs uses Pharmacode to prevent mis-packs during rapid SKU changes, reducing manual checks and increasing throughput while maintaining safety.

Combining Pharmacode with other technologies

Pharmacode is commonly used alongside other barcodes and vision checks. For example, a line might use Data Matrix for serialized identification and Pharmacode for a final verification that the right labels and leaflets were applied. When combined with PLC logic and MES recording, Pharmacode reads add a valuable gate in the overall quality assurance strategy.

Timing recommendations

• Implement Pharmacode at the station closest to the risk event, e.g., before sealing or final packing, to ensure the check is meaningful.
• Include a read during start-of-run validation and periodically during long runs to detect drift or intermittent printing issues.
• Use Pharmacode reads as part of a documented SOP for changeovers and batch release to satisfy auditors and to reduce human reliance.

Summary

Use Pharmacode (Laetus) when you need a fast, reliable in-line verification that the correct physical components are being assembled on the packaging line, especially during changeovers, multi-variant production, or where print quality or space is limited. Do not use it as a replacement for serialization or supply-chain identifiers. When strategically placed and integrated into control logic, Pharmacode significantly reduces the chance of costly or dangerous packaging mix-ups.