Packaging plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, integrity, and proper dispensing of pharmaceutical products. There are several types of common pharmaceutical packaging: unit-dose packaging individually packages each dose of medication and is used in hospitals to reduce medication errors; blister packaging consists of individual cavities for each dose and is used for over-the-counter medications; bottle packaging varies in size depending on the quantity prescribed and is used for liquid medications. Proper packaging helps protect products from factors like light, moisture, and temperature fluctuations that can affect stability and efficacy.

1. Packs and packing. Types of
packing in pharmacy
Made by Shaimerden Aruzhan

2. Introduction
In pharmacy, packing refers to the process of packaging and
preparing medications or pharmaceutical products for
distribution and dispensing. Packaging plays a crucial role in
ensuring the safety, integrity, and proper dispensing of
medications and healthcare products. Proper packaging
helps protect pharmaceutical products from external factors
such as light, moisture, temperature fluctuations, and
contamination, which can affect their stability and efficacy.

3. Key aspects of packaging
Safety and Protection
Child-Resistant Packaging
Dosage Forms
Light and Moisture Protection
Temperature Control
Labeling
Patient Information
Unit-Dose Packaging
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Packaging
Environmental Considerations
Innovations

4. Unit-Dose Packaging
This involves individually packaging each
dose of medication. It's commonly used in
hospitals and long-term care facilities to
ensure accurate dosing and reduce the risk of
medication errors.

5. Blister Packaging
Medications are pre-packaged in blister packs,
which consist of individual cavities or pockets
for each dose. This type of packing is often
used for over-the-counter medications and
some prescription drugs. Blister packaging is a
common form of packaging used in various
industries, including pharmaceuticals,
consumer goods, and electronics. In the context
of pharmaceuticals, blister packaging is widely
used to package individual doses of
medications, especially solid oral dosage forms
like tablets and capsules.

6. Bottle Packaging
Medications are dispensed into bottles, which can
vary in size depending on the quantity of
medication prescribed. Child-resistant caps are
often used for safety. Pharmaceutical bottle
packaging is a flexible and widely used approach,
particularly for liquid medications, but it is also
suitable for certain solid oral dosage forms. It is
essential to select the appropriate type of
packaging based on the specific medication, its
formulation, and the needs of both healthcare
professionals and patients.

7. Vial Packaging
Liquid medications are typically dispensed in vials,
which may be single-dose or multi-dose. These are
commonly used for injectable medications.
Materials: Vials are typically made of glass or plastic,
with each material offering specific advantages and
considerations. Glass vials are often preferred for their
inertness and ability to maintain the integrity of sensitive
medications, while plastic vials are lightweight and less
prone to breakage.

8. Ampoule packaging
Ampoule packaging is a specialized
form of pharmaceutical packaging used
primarily for the storage and delivery of
sterile liquid medications. Ampoules are
small, sealed containers made of glass
or plastic, and they have unique features
and advantages. Here are some key
aspects and considerations regarding
ampoule packaging:
Materials: Ampoules are typically
made of glass or plastic. Glass ampoules
are often preferred for their inertness
and ability to maintain the sterility and
integrity of sensitive medications.
Plastic ampoules are lighter and less
prone to breakage but may be less
suitable for certain medications due to
compatibility concerns.

9. Sachet Packaging
Sachet packaging is well-suited for a wide
range of pharmaceutical products,
including oral solid dosage forms,
powders for reconstitution, and even
certain liquid medications. It offers
convenience, dosing accuracy, and
protection, making it a popular choice for
both patients and healthcare providers.
The choice of sachet material and design
should be based on the specific
requirements of the medication and the
needs of the target population.

10. Types of packaging
Strip Packaging: Similar to blister packaging,
medications are individually sealed in strips,
which can be convenient for packaging specific
regimens or combinations of medications.
Specialty Packaging: Some medications require
specialized packaging, such as pre-filled
syringes, auto-injectors, or pen devices for
administering specific drugs.
Tamper-Evident Packaging: This type of
packaging is designed to show if a product has
been tampered with or opened, ensuring the
safety and integrity of the medication.