The increasing concern over controlled substance diversion and misuse has highlighted the need for more effective security measures in community pharmacies, particularly in developing countries such as Nigeria. This review explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) in enhancing the security of controlled substances within pharmacies. The paper discusses the importance of securing controlled substances, the limitations of traditional security methods, and the emerging technological innovations that can address these vulnerabilities. It also examines the regulatory frameworks in Nigeria, the challenges faced in adopting advanced technologies, and global trends in drug diversion. AI-powered predictive analytics, blockchain for transparency, and IoT-enabled real-time monitoring systems are identified as promising solutions for improving security, reducing human error, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The review also highlights the challenges of technology adoption, including high costs, data privacy concerns, and resistance to change. Finally, the paper presents recommendations for future research, emphasizing the need for studies on the long-term impacts, cost-benefit analyses, and the integration of advanced technologies into existing pharmacy systems. The findings suggest that adopting these technologies is crucial for the future security of controlled substances in pharmacies and the protection of public health.
Haruna et al. (Thu,) studied this question.