There are two different ways that changes occur in any industry. One is through innovation based on research and customer feedback, and the other is through regulations or standards that are designed to increase safety or reduce risks with a product or group of products.
When it comes to drug packaging, both of these methods are equally important. Most drug manufacturers are geared up to fully compliant with the drug serialization requirements that were imposed through regulations. Putting this aside, there are still trends and changes that are trending in the industry and are revolutionizing the drug packaging industry.
Packaging Needs for Biologics
A recent change in the market has occurred with the introduction of a wide variety of different types of the “biologic” medications. These are medications that contain human genes in genetically engineered forms, or they may contain materials from other organic sources such as animals or microorganisms. However, there are also complex mixtures of sugars, nucleic acids, and proteins in these medications, which can pose a concern with many traditional types of packaging.
These complex products, which may be liquids, can reach with packaging materials in pre-filled syringes, specific types of glass bottles and even in plastics. Finding materials to safely store these medications without damaging or changing proteins through the chemical interactions is an ongoing drug packaging industry trend.
Specialized Production
The ability to bring in drugs from other areas of the country or even internationally through online shopping and ordering is something pharmaceutical companies have to consider. It means companies are increasingly looking for drug packaging that is easily identifiable to their customers and serves as a visual branding tool.
Packaging companies specializing in inner and outer packaging are working more creatively to develop practical, cost-effective options for their customers to not just safely deliver the product to the consumer but also to make it stand out as a branding and marketing tool.
