Pharmaceuticals are chemical substances designed to act on physiological processes. Despite legitimate uses, there is potential to misuse pharmaceuticals for harmful purposes. State and non-State actors can exploit the legitimate chemical supply chain to acquire pharmaceutical compounds, chemicals, and their precursors. In October 2002, Russian security forces used a pharmaceutical based agent, suspected to be a fentanyl derivative, to end a hostage situation in the Dubrovka Theater Incident in Moscow resulting in the death of 170 people and demonstrating the potential of weaponizing these substances. In 2021, to address the threat of pharmaceutical based agents, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory launched a webinar series for international partners on Countering Diversion of Pharmaceutical Based Compounds Along the Chemical Supply Chain.<br/>This series focuses on countries that play a role in the global trade of pharmaceutical chemicals. The program consists of twelve educational sessions combined with interactive discussion amongst government officials, chemical producers, distributors, academic researchers, and others associated with the chemical supply chain life cycle. Participants learn to recognize supply chain diversions through red flag indicators and “know your customer” best practices. The webinar series provides a forum for sharing perspectives and insights amongst stakeholders along the chemical supply chain. This poster will present an overview of the threat posed by pharmaceutical chemicals, an outline of the course design and materials, participant feedback, and insights for addressing international chemical supply chain security.

Countering diversion of pharmaceutical based compounds along the chemical supply chain: A workshop

ACS Spring 2022

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