Keystone Folding Box Co., a designer and cGMP manufacturer of paperboard packaging solutions, has developed a modified, customizable version of its Ecosite-RX prescription blister package to address the ongoing opioid epidemic currently taking place in the US. The updated Ecoslide-RX package is designed to limit dosages in an effort to curb overdoses while providing added benefits for safe dispensing.

The lower dose count Ecoslide-RX was introduced in response to efforts by the FDA and the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) to implement product packaging changes that deter opioid abuse. In an effort to combat dependency and overdoses, the design of the Ecoslide-RX allows doctors to prescribe smaller quantities of opioid medication via limited days of dosing presented in blister packs. The packaging also provides numerical identification of each dose, eliminating the possibility of pill-count errors.

Major benefits of Keystone’s original Ecoslide-RX package also are incorporated. The pack includes a re-closable locking feature offering consumers a safe yet streamlined experience. Child-resistant yet senior-friendly, Ecoslide-RX is also versatile by design, meaning it can be adjusted to accommodate patients with dexterity issues. Additionally, the blister pack’s broad format allows for pictographs and larger text on all sides for easier patient instruction and accessibility.

Per its name, Ecoslide-RX also is eco-friendly: Comprised of 100% recyclable paperboard, the packaging separates easily from its internal blister for easy recycling.

“Ecoslide-RX can revolutionize the manner in which controlled substances are dispensed,” says Ward Smith, director of marketing and business development at Keystone. “It represents a forward-thinking solution that supports the pharmaceutical industry’s goal of combating our opioid epidemic.”

Healthcare Packaging Breakthroughs from Constantia Flexibles
Constantia Flexibles, a global manufacturer of flexible packaging products for market leaders in pharmaceuticals and consumer products, will be touting what it says is a technological breakthrough at its Healthcare Packaging Expo booth, from October 14-17 in Chicago, IL, USA.

The company’s Pharma Division now operates a multicolor UV inkjet digital printing machine capable of high-definition resolution (up to 720 x 1260 dpi). The sophisticated equipment can print on aluminum blister foil, coated and uncoated paper, PET and paper laminates. For quality assurance, the machine features a web inspection system that cross-checks approved customer artwork.

Also at Healthcare Packaging Expo, Constantia Flexibles will be showcasing its expanded portfolio of Stick Pack solutions. Following the installation of new state-of-the-art equipment, including a narrow web and short-run slitter with enhanced laser perforation capabilities, the company now offers stick pack solutions encompassing a wide range of benefits, including a pre-determined breaking point for convenient, easy-to-open packaging and integrated perforation of the packaging, with no necessary equipment modifications. It also features a flexible perforation layout to accommodate varying customer needs, plus child-resistant options. Both printed and unprinted offerings and packaging that remains impermeable to O2 and moisture are highlights. There is a significantly lower use of material compared with sachets, equaling a cost savings of up to 40% on square sachets and associated costs such as reel storage, space reduction and more.

Sophisticated laser technology is key to the popularity of Constantia’s stick packs. Laser perforation allows for a broad array of opening features to be incorporated into primary packaging material – with no effect on a customer’s preferred packaging process. The packages are comprised of PET/AL/PE or even paper/AL/PE to protect the contents against moisture, oxygen and light. A laser perforation ensures easy opening. 

Finally, Constantia Flexibles will be highlighting its extended efforts in – and expanded options for – child-resistant packaging solutions. Evidenced by its dedicated child-resistance packaging website, www.protect-the-kids.com, Constantia is at the forefront of pharma’s ongoing push to improve child safety without inconveniencing intended end users. Through the years, the company has developed an impressive portfolio of solutions, including: blister packaging achieving an F=1 child-resistant rating – the highest possible; a two-step “Bend & Tear” process combining different opening mechanisms; a “Pinch & Tear” solution requiring a folding motion per on-product instructions; peel-only and peel-and-push solutions in which products are accessed by removing one or more exterior layers; and reinforced materials requiring added strength, meeting CR requirements without additional opening features.