Packaging of medicines II

Question 1

Complex packaging materials

Answer 1

Custom made, mainly multi-laminates, designed for online manufacture of packs, challenge to produce a pack immediately prior to filling that ensures the stability of the product

Question 2

Blister cavities

Answer 2

Thermoforming- films heated to 120-145c to improve ductility for moulding blisters, cold moulded- aluminium films, to avoid pin holes in foil needs to be > 20 microns thick

Question 3

Push through blister foil
Peelable child resistant lidding foil
Moisture proof foils

Answer 3

Push through blister foil- strong seal to blister foil, one step removal, good barrier
Peelable child resistant lidding foil- for application to strong foil, two step process to open
Moisture proof foils- OPA laminate, ordered polyamide, impermeable to water vapour, balance cost with performance

Question 4

Blisters and medication errors

Answer 4

Removal of dosage form from blister by carer for confused or visually impaired patients, further cause of problem, the dispensing of cut up blister packs in community/hospital practice

Question 5

Adulteration

Answer 5

The dilution of an active raw material with another material or the direct substitution with something of the same appearance

Question 6

Products and packaging

Answer 6

Some products can only exist because of their packaging e.g. labile substances that need protection from the environment, delicate materials that cannot be handled without breakage, formulations with volatile components

Question 7

Pack safety and usage

Answer 7

Problem balancing safety with access: geriatric and paediatric patients, arthritic patients have difficulty in gripping and turning tops, resultant problem is open containers, exemption for use of child proof containers if requested at time of dispensing