Drug package material, glass

Packaging Materials. As in the case of fibers, thermal analysis can easily distinguish between most polymeric films on the basis of the glass transition and the thermal history dependence of the melt and recrystallization (20, 21). From the analysis of thin films--as, for example, used in plastic bags recovered with drugs—it should be possible to identify by comparison the bag manufacturer and possibly the manufacturing lot. 

Topical dosage forms such as unpressurized sprays, lotions, ointments, solutions, and suspensions may be considered for marketing in glass bottles with appropriate dispenser. Some topical drug products, especially ophthalmic, are sterile or may be subject to microbial limits. In these cases, packaging material and handling should be done as those for injectables. 

Due to the need to check for particles, fibers, and possible discoloration in drug solutions transparent and colorless packaging materials are desirable. Hence, uncolored glass and plastic, bottles and bags, are commonly used as primary packaging for parenteral. To attain photo protection without losing VIS controllability, transparent containers or covers are necessary. 

Containers used for topical administration include plastics, glass, and metals. Most topical preparations are packaged in plastic jars, metal tubes, glass jars or, in some cases, a combination of these materials. Suitable tests are performed to ensure that drug products do not leach or react with the proposed containers. The various types of topical formulations are discussed in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms (1151) of the USP/NFP ... 

PEN for Medical Applications. Another application for PEN is medical packages, where material selection is driven by chemical resistance, safety, and strength. One example is a package from Abbott Laboratories (24), used for the drug Sevoflurane, a volatile anesthetic used in hospital operating rooms. PEN was chosen to replace glass because of its chemical resistance, low extractables, and strength. The container needs to be able to contain pressure buildup if the contents increase in temperature. 

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