Packaging for ophthalmic medicines: innovations and challenges

The pharmaceutical sector is constantly evolving, and one of the most challenging yet sensitive areas is ophthalmic medicines. These products, intended for the treatment of eye disorders, require highly specialised packaging to ensure their safety, efficacy and durability. Packaging for ophthalmic medicines is not just a product wrapper, but a critical component that can directly influence the quality of treatment.

Types of ophthalmic medicines

Ophthalmic pharmaceuticals are specialised formulations designed for topical application to the surface of the eye, for intraocular administration or for use in the area surrounding the eye (periocular). The most common ophthalmic dosage forms include:

• Liquids: eye drops, ophthalmic solutions, or suspensions.
• Semisolids: gels and ointments.
• Solids: drug-coated contact lenses or ocular inserts.

Types and materials for ophthalmic medicine packaging

There are different packaging solutions for ophthalmic medicines, each with specific characteristics to meet different drug and patient needs. Different pharmaceutical companies use various methods and materials to package ophthalmic products.

The most commonly used materials for packaging ophthalmic products are plastic bottles generally made of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and so on, depending on the product’s specific requirements.  In addition to plastic, glass bottles are also used, primarily borosilicate glass.

• Dropper bottles: these are the most common type for eye drops. These bottles are made of plastic or glass materials and include a dosing system that allows the drug to be dispensed in precise drops. Some bottles are equipped with 'preservative free' systems, which eliminate the need for chemical preservatives, increasing safety for patients with sensitive eyes.
• Single-dose bottles: used for a single application, they ensure maximum sterility and are often used for more delicate drugs or treatments that do not require preservatives. They are practical to use and reduce the risk of contamination between applications.
• Innovative dosing systems: some companies are developing ophthalmic applicators with controlled and precise drug delivery, reducing waste and improving the patient experience. These include devices with pump dispensers or continuous delivery systems.

Features of ophthalmic packaging

Packaging for ophthalmic medicines must meet strict technical and regulatory requirements. Some of the key factors to consider are:

• Sterility: our eyes are extremely sensitive, and any contamination can lead to infection or serious complications. For this reason, the packaging must be designed to maintain product sterility, even after opening. Advanced closure systems and sterile materials are indispensable.
• Protection from light: some ophthalmic drugs are photosensitive, i.e. they can degrade when exposed to light. The packaging must therefore provide adequate shielding to prevent the drug’s efficacy from being compromised.
• Biocompatible materials: since ophthalmic drugs are applied directly to the eyes, the materials used for packaging must be biocompatible, i.e. they must not cause adverse reactions when they come into contact with the drug or the eye.
• Ergonomics and ease of use: many patients, particularly the elderly or visually impaired, may have difficulty administering eye medication. The packaging must therefore be ergonomic, easy to handle and designed to allow precise and safe application of the drops or ophthalmic gel.

Innovations in pharmaceutical packaging

Packaging for ophthalmic medicines faces several challenges, which continuously drive pharmaceutical companies to innovate.

• Environmental sustainability: the increasing focus on environmental impact has led to the development of more sustainable packaging solutions, such as the use of recyclable materials, or materials from environmentally sustainable sources. The introduction of environmentally friendly materials must, however, be balanced with the need to maintain high standards of safety and sterility.
• Elimination of preservatives: many ophthalmic medicines contain preservatives to prevent bacterial contamination once opened. However, prolonged use of preservatives may cause eye irritation or damage. As a result, new closure systems and bottles that maintain sterility without the use of preservatives are being developed, improving the tolerability of the medicine.
• Smart technologies: the introduction of smart devices in ophthalmic packaging is emerging as an interesting trend. These devices can monitor the correct use of the drug, alerting patients in the event of medication errors or provide reminders to take doses, improving adherence to treatment.
• Accessibility and inclusiveness: ergonomic and user-friendly packaging is essential to ensure that all patients, including those with visual impairments or limitations to their mobility, can use ophthalmic medicines safely and independently.

Packaging for ophthalmic medicines is an area that requires advanced solutions to meet increasingly complex clinical and regulatory requirements. Innovation in this field focuses not only on drug protection and preservation, but also on the patient’s user experience, ensuring safety, sustainability and ease of administration. As technologies evolve, the future of ophthalmic packaging will be increasingly oriented towards smart, environmentally friendly solutions, improving the quality of eye care worldwide.