The use of glass in pharmaceutical packaging offers numerous benefits. First, glass is highly resistant to temperature changes, a crucial property for the pharmaceutical industry, where products often require specific temperatures to ensure stability and efficacy. This allows glass to help maintain the optimal temperature of the products it encases.
Glass is also non-reactive to chemicals, which is vital for preserving the purity of pharmaceutical contents, even if the exterior is exposed to other substances. Given the precise molecular composition of pharmaceutical products, any contamination poses a significant risk to patients. The non-reactive nature of glass thus makes it exceptionally suitable for pharmaceutical packaging.
In contrast, certain plastics commonly used in pharmaceutical packaging are reactive, limiting their use as they may interact with the products they encase. Scientists carefully assess potential reactions before selecting the most appropriate packaging material. Due to its non-reactivity, glass is often preferred as the safest option.
Another advantage of glass is that it does not leach chemicals, unlike some types of plastic, which can release substances such as Bisphenol A (BPA). BPA contamination has been linked to adverse effects on brain function and blood pressure. While more research is needed to confirm these effects, choosing glass for pharmaceutical packaging effectively eliminates this risk. Additionally, glass can withstand sterilisation processes and high temperatures without degrading, ensuring the elimination of bacteria and germs.
Glass has further benefits as a packaging material: it is tough, durable, easy to sterilise, and can be labelled or moulded into custom shapes and sizes to meet specific needs.
While some experts anticipate that glass and elastomeric closure systems may eventually be replaced as scientists develop even more effective protective barriers, glass is likely to remain essential in pharmaceutical packaging. The sector's future will embrace eco-friendly solutions, with a focus on recycled glass as a significant material. Strong, durable, safe, and sustainable pharmaceutical packaging is the priority, and glass will likely continue to be relied upon for tablets, syringes, and other medicinal products for years to come.
Ashikujaman Syed
Business Development Manager
Fuyi (Xiamen) Material Technology Co. Ltd.
Xiamen, China
syedashikujaman@yahoo.com