The EDQM has launched a revised version of its Know-X database. This project jointly carried out by the Official Medicines Control Laboratories (OMCL) Network and the EDQM’s Committee of Experts on Minimising Public Health Risks Posed by Falsification of Medical Products and Similar Crimes (CD-P-PH/CMED) will favour better interaction between the analytical and enforcement actors involved in the fight against falsified medicines and medical devices. This latest release addresses the feedback received from users and most importantly, aims to facilitate more harmonised data entries for both OMCLs and health and law enforcement authorities.

The EDQM has created the Know-X database in 2014 to collect cases of falsified medicines and medical devices that are detected in Council of Europe member states. The tool supports officials by providing a basis for the exchange of information; it encourages cooperation between health and law enforcement authorities and it also allows for exchanging analytical information on falsified medicines testing within the Network of OMCLs.

Access to the Know-X database is secure and restricted to members of the OMCL Network and to officials in competent authorities within Council of Europe member or observer states who work on falsified medical products and similar crimes.

In line with the EDQM’s commitment to support the protection of public health in Europe, the updates, new layout and features of the revised Know-X database provide an efficient tool for professionals involved in the fight against falsified medicines and medical devices. While the main necessary updates have been implemented with this version, the EDQM will continue to work on further database improvements.

National competent authorities who would like to receive more information on the database and how to access it can contact the EDQM at: [email protected]