Keystone Folding Box Co., a designer and cGMP manufacturer of paperboard packaging solutions, has received an award from the National Association of Chain Drug Stores for a Limited Opioid Dose version of its Ecoslide-RX blister package.

The package offers prescription-limiting, product theft-averse solutions in response to the Opioid Crisis Response Act, which passed the U.S. Senate on September 17.

Leading up to the bill, blister packages were highlighted as useful tools to help address both overprescribing of painkillers and their subsequent abuse. Keystone’s modified, customizable version of its Ecoslide-RX prescription blister package is designed to limit dosages, discourage pill theft and improve dispensing safety.

The lower dose count Ecoslide-RX was introduced in response to efforts by the FDA and the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) to implement product packaging changes that deter opioid abuse. In an effort to combat dependency and overdoses, the design of the Ecoslide-RX allows doctors to prescribe smaller quantities of opioid medication via limited days of dosing presented in blister packs. The packaging also provides numerical identification of each dose to prevent pill-count errors.

The pack includes a re-closable locking feature for a safe, more streamlined experience. Ecoslide-RX is Child-resistant (F=1) and senior-friendly, and can be adjusted to accommodate patients with dexterity issues. Additionally, the blister pack’s broad format allows for pictographs and larger texts on all sides for easier patient instruction and accessibility. Ecoslide-RX is comprised of 100% recyclable paperboard, and the packaging separates from its internal blister for recycling.

“We are so pleased that the potential of Ecoslide-RX to help curb opioid abuse was recognized with the NACDS award,” said Ward Smith, director of marketing and business development at Keystone. “With the Senate passage of the Opioid Crisis Response Act of 2018, we believe our product will go a long way toward supporting the pharmaceutical industry’s goal of combatting this ongoing epidemic.”