Unit dose systems

The cost of generic substitutes is usually considerably less than that for the trade name psychotropic drugs, but issues of bioequivalence must also be considered (see the section The Four Primary Pharmacokinetic Phases in Chapter 3). Using the fewest tablets to achieve a targeted dose level is always less expensive. Unit dose systems, sustained release preparations, and concentrate forms all increase the cost ( 26). 

Another important way to minimize calculation errors is to avoid the need for calculations. This can be accomplished by using the unit-dose system exclusively as follows ... 

Using commercially available unit-dose systems such as premixed critical care parenteral products. 

Early dry powder inhaler devices were all unit-dose systems and depended on loading and triggering procedures. The Spinhaler and Rotahaler are two early examples of DPI technology. Both utilize premetered doses packed into hard gelatin capsules although different mechanisms of powder delivery are employed ... 

For delicate drug formulations, the industry offers a modified unit-dose system. The lyophilized ingredi-ent(s) are stored separately from the solvent. Prior to administration, the drug formulation is reconstituted and ready to be dispensed. 

Hoolihan, R.J. Skoogman, L.H. Documentation of phMmacist interventions in a decentralized unit dose system. Hosp. Pharm. 1991, 26, 875-879. 

Warrian, K. Irvine, M.J. Cost-benefit of a clinical services integrated with a decentralized unit dose system. Can. J. Hosp. Pharm. 1988, 41, 109-112. 

Centralized units have some advantages, such as less investment in equipment, better use of multidose vials, recycling of unused preparations, better working conditions, a good opportunity for clinical intervention by pharmacists, and improvement in the quality of patient care when the CIVAS is well coordinated with the unit-dose system. 

Unit-dose systems offer the easiest technical solution to this problem, but have the disadvantages of higher cost of manufacture and of not being as compact as a multidose product containing equivalent doses. Unit-dose products are usually made of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), with the formulated sterile solution being without a preservative, and sealed using the form-fill-seal process. 

Pfeiffer CAptarGroup Inc.] Unit-dose system Comprises plastic body, glass ampoule and West Company elastomeric plunger. ... 

A closure is therefore an essential part of any basic pack and as such must assist in providing a product with protection, presentation, identification/information and convenience on an economical basis until such time as the product is totally removed from the pack. The latter may be a once-off operation (i.e. it is a one-use or unit dose system) or multiple use in that the product is used over a period, thereby creating the need for a reclosable pack. In all instances the time between the creation of the packed product and its ultimate removal/use while it is still in a satisfactory state represents the shelf life of the product. 

When using a unit dose system, do not remove die wrapping of the unit dose until the drug reach die bedside of the patient who is to receive it. After administering die drug, die nurse charts immediately on the unit dose drug form. The mediod of administering dni by die unit dose system is widely used. 

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