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Prescrire's yearly review of drug packaging: small changes would reap big benefits

In its yearly review of drugs packaging, the independent French journal Prescrire noted several improvements in 2013, but too many cases of poor-quality or even dangerous packaging.

In the course of reviewing new drugs, or in reporting on changes in existing drugs, Prescrire methodically examines drug packaging, carrying out around 150-250 such analyses every year. That allows Prescrire's editors to single out quality packaging, and also to detect packaging that can give rise to confusion or even danger. All aspects of the packaging are examined: the labelling of the boxes, blister packs, bottles, syringes, etc; any devices supplied in the box for the preparation or administration of the drugs; safety features such as caps; as well as the informational value of the leaflets as regards directions for use, adverse effects, etc.

For 2013, three Packaging Awards were given out as part of the annual Prescrire Awards, the first time this has happened since 2008. This goes to show yet again that pharmaceutical companies can indeed achieve quality drug packaging.

But the amount of problematic or even hazardous drug packaging is very worrying, and was again on the increase in 2013, with 33 drugs receiving a "Yellow Card" (6) or a "Red Card" (27) for drug packaging from Prescrire's editors. The worries mainly centre upon patients who are particularly vulnerable to adverse effects, especially children and pregnant women. There are also problems linked to self-medication (with so-called "umbrella brands"), dosing devices for liquid medications, and injectable drugs.

©Prescrire 1 May 2014

"Drug packaging in 2013: small changes would reap big benefits" Prescrire Int 2014; 23 (149): 136-139. (Pdf, free)
Download the full review.
Pdf, free

Prescrire's Red Cards for
drug packaging, 1991-2012:
some improvements,
but many dangers persist
Pdf, free

For more information:

The Prescrire Packaging
Awards for 2013
(February 2014)
Free