Schreiner MediPharm, a Germany-based global provider of specialty pharmaceutical labeling solutions, has introduced a solution for the safe disposal of patches containing active ingredients, including opioids. Developed for PS Marketing & Outsourcing GmbH, Schreiner MediPharm’s Patch-Safe is a multilayer specialty label applied to sachets that reliably seals a used transdermal patch between two layers. In the case of patches containing high concentrations of opioids, an accidental transfer of active ingredients via the skin – and the resulting health risks as well as potential for abuse – can thereby be prevented.

When properly used, transdermal patches with high concentrations of active ingredients are an effective and safe means of drug delivery used in chronic pain management or hormone therapy. However, when patches that contain opioids come into contact with the skin of non-patients, this may lead to serious, even fatal health problems—especially for children.

In addition, pain patches in particular pose a high risk of abuse by those suffering from drug addiction and, in some cases, by patients with chronic pain. This is because even used patches still contain large amounts of active ingredients. Therefore, health authorities in various countries have issued recommendations and requirements for safe disposal of such patches.

Utilizing Schreiner MediPharm’s new label solution, patches containing active ingredients can be safely stored and disposed of following use. The specialty label solution for sachets of transdermal patches is applied to the individual packaging unit and consists of several layers. The bottom layer permanently adheres to the sachet, while the transparent top layer can be partially opened to insert the patch and firmly seal it by reclosing the label.

For additional safety, Patch-Safe can be provided with a perforation for tamper protection: Attempts to reopen the label with the inserted and sealed patch will cause the label to tear along the perforation; peeling off the top label layer will then only be possible with great force, serving as an additional impediment to abuse.