Schreiner MediPharm, in cooperation with OECHSLERhealth, a global industrialization partner for medical devices, has developed an innovative cap-lock solution specifically for vials.

The solution has been introduced for analog and digital first-opening indication. The solution addresses key challenges around product integrity, patient safety, and digitalization of primary packaging and was presented for the first time at Pharmapack in Paris.

The integrity of primary containers is an important factor for a secure pharmaceutical supply chain. In the case of vials, flip-off caps reach their limits because tampering attempts can frequently remain undetected. At the same time, there is a growing demand for digital solutions to further automate processes along the supply chain and make them more transparent.

The cap-lock label from Schreiner MediPharm is based on a special design with irreversible first-opening indication. A plastic cap designed by OECHSLERhealth is placed on top of the closed vial and permanently interlocks with the flip-off cap. Because the cap and the vial have the same diameter, the label from Schreiner MediPharm can simply be applied to them. When opening the vial the cap-lock label is irreversibly destroyed, making the first opening clearly visible – an undetected reapplication of the cap is not possible.

In addition to the analog security function, cap-lock for vials provides a variety of digital options. An RFID chip integrated in the label enables digital first-opening indication and tracking of individual vials on unit level. As a result, previously opened containers can be automatically recognized and processed in medication management, for instance, in hospitals, can be efficiently supported. Moreover, the integration of an NFC functionality enables easy digital smartphone-based authentication, thus making an important contribution to product and brand protection.

Cap-lock for vials is adaptable to all commonly used vial sizes and supports pharmaceutical manufacturers in reliably protecting the integrity of their products from the filling process to administration to the patient. The combination of clear first-opening indication and digital functionality shows how analog security and digital added value can be innovatively combined.