Originally Published PMPN January 2005
Product Update
Convenient Unit-dose packaging
Single-dosage forms allow drugs to be dispensed and applied with accuracy, while reducing waste.
Thermoform-Fill-Seal Containers
A line of unit-dose, thermoform-fill-seal plastic containers can be used to package liquids, gels, lotions, creams, and semisolids. Customers can select from film types, hundreds of product applications, a wide range of design options, unlimited decorating choices, and dozens of unit sizes. Single- and multilayer high-barrier film choices include but are not limited to PVC/PE, PVC/PVDC/PE, and PET/PE. The company’s VersaPak line of containers offers flexibility in package geometry and decorating options. The containers can be formed to duplicate full-sized signature products, and designed to emphasize critical product features and unique brand identity. By using high-clarity films, up to six-color printing, and custom color films, decorating options are many. Sizes range from 3 to 45 ml, with any fill level available within that range. Unicep Packaging Inc., Sandpoint, ID; 208/265-9696; www.unicep.com.
Foil Laminates
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A supplier of sample packaging and contract filling offers unit-of-use tubes with a foil laminate structure. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, the tubes can be printed in full color. They offer barrier protection against moisture transmission and UV-light exposure and are reportedly more cost-effective than plastic tubes. The company can fill short runs and particularly difficult jobs, including labeling, sealing, secondary packaging, ink-jet coding, and point-of-purchase materials. Unette, Wharton, NJ; 973/328-6800; www.unette.com.
Plastic Ampules
A plastic ampule was created specifically for contract packaging and features a single-use dispensing system for package integrity, safety, and single-handed use. The glass-free system comprises a one-piece molded polyethylene or polypropylene unit that remains intact and sealed until activated by the user by a gentle squeeze of the package. The squeeze breaks a plastic inner membrane that seals in the contents prior to use. A second gentle squeeze then dispenses the product. The ampule package is manufactured in a variety of sizes and styles ranging from dropper tips to swabs to custom dispensers. In addition to producing, filling, and sealing the ampules to exact customer specifications, the company also provides printing and secondary packaging services, including date and lot code stamping for direct sale, resale, and point of purchase. James Alexander, Blairstown, NJ; 908/362-9266; www.james-alexander.com.
Premoistened Swab
A swab is premoistened and sealed into a single-dose, snap-open tube. The manufacturer’s unique plastic-fusion molding process results in plastic tubes with uniform, thin walls. Liquid filling, tube sealing, and packaging operations are performed by the manufacturer as well, resulting in a premoistened, snap-open swab that is disposed after one use. The product can be used for both pharmaceutical and medical applications. Contact the company directly for samples and a quote. Innovative Swab Technologies, Antioch, IL; 800/788-9873; www.innovativeswab.com.
Prefillable Syringe
A prefillable glass syringe contains a transparent tip that promotes proper needle-hub attachment. Other features include a rigid cap that is securely attached to the tip to prevent inadvertent cap removal and a rib tip cap that firmly seals the syringe tip aperture. The syringe also has a unique tip cap design that helps healthcare professionals maintain aseptic technique during cap removal. The product is compatible with both conventional and safety-engineered needles. BD Medical Pharmaceutical Systems, Franklin Lakes, NJ; 800/225-3310; www.bd.com.
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