Pharmaceutical packaging is specific to the processes and materials used for the storage, handling, and distribution of medical products. 

It is of vital importance for the maintenance of medicine quality, patient safety, and regulatory compliance. 

The packaging must protect against environmental factors such as moisture, light, and heat, ensuring the efficacy of the medication. 

Read on as we highlight the measures being taken by pharmaceutical product manufacturers and the kinds of solutions that will be presented at the upcoming PPMA Show here.

Types of Pharmaceutical Packaging Materials

There are three main categories of pharmaceutical packaging. Primary packaging varieties such as blister packs, vitals, and bottles come into direct contact with the product. 

Such packaging is designed to protect against contamination, also preserving quality through the product’s shelf life.

Medication is typically displayed in secondary packaging, which is also expected to provide some protection. 

For instance, pill blister packs may be grouped in cartons or boxes, with labels attached for consumer guidance. Such cartons or boxes may be placed inside tertiary packaging, such as large pallets, for safe distribution.

These materials are commonly used for the packaging of pharmaceutical products:

• Glass - ideal for injectables, despite being relatively heavy and breakable

• Plastic - a lightweight and versatile choice for bottles, ampoules, and blister foils

• Metal - with aluminum commonly used for the protection of blister packs and tubes

• Paper/paperboard - commonly in the form of boxes and cartons, with the relatively easy addition of branding elements and consumer information.

Ensuring Safety & Compliance

As mentioned, pharmaceutical packaging should protect against contamination, and environmental factors for the assurance of patient safety. 

It should provide a sterile environment, ensuring that the medication reaches the consumer in optimum quality and provides the greatest benefit. Given the growing risk of counterfeiting, it must be clear whenever there’s been any tampering, with child-resistance assured too.

There has been some innovation in pharmaceutical packaging, with IoT technologies allowing for the continuous monitoring of environmental conditions during product transportation. 

Such technology also enables pharmaceutical companies to keep real-time tabs on the location of medications for safety and integrity.

The development of such advanced technologies makes a difference as pharmaceutical companies have to maintain compliance with legislation, such as that of the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency). 

The requirements of the EU Falsified Medicines Directive (FMD) and ISO standards must also be fulfilled in the delivery of medications to UK consumers.

There are particularly stringent regulations specific to labelling, with packaging having to specify the medication name, dosage instructions, expiry date, and manufacturer details. Consumer safety is the main priority, with labels also having to indicate possible side effects and storage guidelines. 

Innovation in Pharmaceutical Packaging

Creativity in production and packaging is vital for growth within the highly competitive and regulated pharmaceutical sector. 

Pharmaceutical companies continue to explore the most innovative packaging solutions for the fulfillment of regulations and consumer expectations. 

This can be seen in the development of smart packaging, with RFID labels, QR codes, and other digital elements for product monitoring and authentication. The recognised need for environmental protection is also leading to the wider use of sustainable and eco-friendly packaging materials.

Other examples of pharmaceutical packaging innovation include:

• Personalised packaging for tailored therapies and greater patient adherence

• Packaging sensors, which automatically remind patients to take their medication and transfer real-time data to healthcare providers

• Specially designed seals, closures, and labels, to clearly indicate whenever medication has been tampered with.

• New drug delivery formats, including unit-dosed blister packs and electronic wearable injectors, for better patient outcomes.

Explore Cutting-Edge Solutions at the PPMA Show

As the UK’s biggest processing and packaging machinery exhibition, the PPMA Show will provide the ideal opportunity to learn about such pharmaceutical sector innovations. 

Visitors will have the chance to explore the latest materials, containers, and delivery concepts, with the opportunity for networking, knowledge sharing, and insights.

Don’t miss out on the chance to expand your pharmaceutical sector knowledge with a free ticket to the PPMA Show.