GERMANY – Munich-based provider of functional labels for the healthcare industry, Schreiner MediPharm has developed Needle-Trap, a unique label with integrated needle protection.
Needle-Trap indicates whether a prefilled syringe has been previously opened, helping protect the integrity of its contents until final use, notes the company.
Schreiner MediPharm will showcase the new technology for the first time at Pharmapack in Paris, in early February.
Due to its integrated plastic trap, the Needle-Trap needle protection label poses special challenges to a first-opening indication feature.
In addition to smooth processing in pharmaceutical manufacturing operations, ease of use by healthcare staff also required consideration.
Schreiner MediPharm has designed for its Needle-Trap solution a novel closure seal with a tab ending on the syringe cap.
Before injection, the needle trap is first folded sideways, as usual. While the cap is being pulled off, a perforation automatically activates the label-integrated seal, which irreversibly indicates the label’s initial opening.
Special security cuts prevent undetected removal of the seal. For authenticity verification, overt authentication features such as a guilloche pattern or covert security features can be added.
The addition of the new feature provides pharmaceutical manufacturers with a multifunctional and cost-efficient solution.
It combines the protection of healthcare staff against needlestick injuries with first-opening indication ensuring the integrity of the prefilled syringe on a unit level. Product and patient safety are enhanced, according to Schreiner.
In addition, the new Needle-Trap version can be easily integrated into existing pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.
Before the unveiling, Schreiner MediPharm conducted a comparable sustainability of its Needle-Trap safety solution relative to conventional needle safety systems.
Needle-Trap proved particularly environmentally friendly primarily due to its special design. Its plastic trap requires less plastic material than conventional needle safety systems and comprises up to 50 percent re-granulated material.
In addition, due to the label’s compact design, there is no need to adjust its secondary packaging.
As a result, Needle-Trap requires less space during transportation and storage. It also generates less waste, which protects the environment and reduces the environmental footprint.
With sustainability playing an increasingly key role in the healthcare industry, it is incumbent upon manufacturers of all products – especially existing ones – to evaluate and optimize their solutions’ materials from an eco-conscious standpoint.
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