Social Mercor

Do you know who’s touching your stuff? This was the question posed by Charles Forsaith to an invite-only audience during a recent Marken-sponsored roundtable discussion. Forsaith, a 20- year law enforcement veteran and former U.S. military security operations director, functions as the supply chain security director for Purdue Pharma — makers of the opioid pain reliever OxyContin (oxycodone). A schedule II narcotic, OxyContin has proven to be a highly effective painkiller — retailing for around $6 to $12 legally. But in addition to it being effective, the drug has been shown to be somewhat addictive, leading to abuse and target for theft, commanding prices of $50 to $80 on the street. Forsaith and other logistics professionals have a tough job (keeping their company’s supply chains secure), one which often takes a back seat to industry headlines focused on R&D developments, FDA recalls, and quarterly earnings. But the shipping of drugs is often the second largest cost incurred by pharmaceutical companies, with R&D being first. This is why Marken, a pharmaceutical and life science supply chain service provider, brought together a number of key opinion leaders, including Forsaith, to discuss supply chain security, regulatory compliance, and best shipping practices in conjunction with the grand opening of their newest depot in Farmingdale, NY. Believe it or not, the safe handling and security of drugs may be the difference between life and death for you or a loved one. Here’s why.