Pharmaceutical packaging plays a fundamental role in the protection of medicines during storage and transport. Tablets, syrups, ampoules, vaccines… Everything must be packaged in compliance with strict safety requirements so that they reach the patient in optimum conditions.
In addition, the way in which medicines are administered determines the design of the packaging, which must facilitate opening and dosing.
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Pharmaceutical packaging regulations
Pharmaceutical packaging is regulated by different regulations aimed at ensuring the safety and efficacy of medicines, as well as the protection of people and the environment.
In Europe, Directive 2001/83/EC determines the information, packaging and labeling that medicinal products must carry. There are also specific rules governing other aspects, such as protection against counterfeit medicines (Directive 2011/62/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council) and waste management (Directive 2008/98/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council).
Types of pharmaceutical packaging
The most common types of packaging in the pharmaceutical sector are:
Blister:
Consists of a plastic or aluminum foil containing the drug, allowing its administration in doses such as tablets, individual capsules, dragees, etc.
Bottle:
Made of glass or plastic, used for the storage of liquids and solids.
Which packaging is the most suitable for the pharmaceutical sector?
Pharmaceutical products are a delicate type of goods, which require special control conditions during the whole packaging process. Therefore, a pharmaceutical packaging must be able to keep the medicines intact throughout the entire supply chain.
For example, using opaque materials that protect it from light, that act as a barrier to water vapor and oxygen, and with a correct sealing and immobilization that prevents degradation or overturning of the product.
In this sense, corrugated cardboard boxes on wooden or cardboard pallets are an interesting option, because they are suitable for both storage and transport of this type of merchandise.
They are also compatible with the standardized European and American palletizing systems and, as they are certified with the ISPM -15 phytosanitary seal, they are suitable for export.
In addition, auxiliary fastening systems such as strapping help to keep the goods securely fastened. Likewise, desiccant salts absorb the humidity inside the packaging during transit.
Sustainable pharmaceutical packaging
Pharmaceutical packaging is constantly evolving. Innovation, sustainability and safety set the trends in the sector.
Environmental impact is another of the challenges facing the industry. In the area of primary packaging, the first steps are being taken in the manufacture of recyclable paper blister packs.
Regarding secondary and tertiary packaging, 360 Eco Packaging has been developing sustainable packaging for years, using reusable and recyclable materials. All this together with an optimization service aimed at helping companies implement more efficient logistics, with lower energy consumption and less impact on nature.