Packaging materials can significantly influence the stability of a pharmaceutical product.
Improper packaging may lead to degradation, reduced potency, or contamination.
1) Moisture Transmission
Plastics like LDPE may allow water vapor transmission, potentially degrading moisture-sensitive drugs.
Blister packs often use PVdC or aluminum foil to minimize moisture ingress.
2) Oxygen Permeability
Certain drugs undergo oxidation in the presence of oxygen.
Oxygen barrier properties of packaging (e.g., multi-layer laminates, glass vials) are crucial for products prone to oxidative degradation.
3) Light Transmission
Some drugs degrade when exposed to UV or visible light.
Amber glass or opaque containers can help protect light-sensitive products.
4) Chemical Interactions
Leaching of plasticizers, stabilizers, or metal ions can compromise product safety or efficacy.
Container surface treatments or linings can help mitigate interaction.
5) Physical Stability
Glass delamination (formation of flakes inside vials).
Changes in container integrity during shipping or storage (e.g., denting of metal cans).
6) Temperature and Humidity
Extreme temperatures or high humidity can accelerate degradation.
Packaging must maintain integrity under typical transportation and storage conditions.