Pharmaceutical packaging plays a big role in the shelf life, ability to transport, safe storage and safe usage of medications. The drugs need to be in containers that protect the pharmaceuticals from damage caused by moisture, sunlight, pests and possible tampering. The tamper resistance level of the package is key to safety, especially in the decades since several bottles of name-brand acetaminophen were tampered with in the 1980s.
Another important quality of pharmaceutical packaging is its ability to maintain the shelf life of the product. By sealing out air and moisture, the packaging should prevent premature aging of the product. The ideal packaging also protects against degradation caused by direct exposure to sunlight.
Packaging of pharmaceutical drugs should also take into consideration how and where it will be used. Items that are used in a doctor’s office or hospital may come in bulk bottles. These bottles will need to fit in the appropriate storage unit, self or refrigerator. There may also be single-use products that need to be sealed but packaged in a bigger container so that one item can be taken out without compromising the other items.
Pharmaceutical drugs that are used by individuals in their homes may need different packaging features. They may need to have bottles that are easy to open, especially for people with arthritis or mobility issues. On the other hand, households with pets or children may need child-resistant packaging. The packaging should have clear instructions on how to store the medication. It should also have clear dosing information.
Packages of medications should have their expiration date stamped on at last one place in a typeface and size that is easy to read. It should also include the name, dosage, concentration and manufacturer of the drug as well as the lot number for possible recalls.
