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SCHOTT Pharma Launches Next Gen Polymer Syringe System

Offers first-opening indication, oxygen and light protection, and can include an RFID chip for drug traceability and inventory management.

By: Kristin Brooks

Managing Editor, Contract Pharma

Photo: SCHOTT Pharma/Oana Szekely

SCHOTT Pharma, a provider of drug containment and delivery solutions, launched the next generation of SCHOTT TOPPAC infuse polymer syringes, a system designed to improve safety and efficiency. Developed with SCHOTT Pharma’s Alliance to Zero partners, Schreiner MediPharm and Körber Pharma, the system consists of a new cap, a functional label, and a carton packaging. This solution aims to address challenges hospitals face, including high levels of medication waste, inefficient manual processes, and storage constraints.

The new syringe system is a pre-assembled cap that simplifies the filling process for pharmaceutical companies. The next generation of SCHOTT TOPPAC infuse syringes can be filled on existing filling lines without requiring modifications or additional investment. Combined with a functional label, the new design covers the syringe shoulder completely, providing a first-opening indication for each syringe. With conventional syringe systems, the first-opening mark can only be found on the secondary packaging. However, when provided directly at the point of use, the syringe can be re-used if it has not been previously opened. Combined with the cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) material used to manufacture SCHOTT TOPPAC infuse, the new syringe system is designed to ensure drug stability throughout its shelf life, reducing the risk of drug contamination.

The new cap design allows for a functional label that provides additional protection, such as oxygen and light protection, but can also contain relevant information about the specific medication, such as expiration date or batch number. These can be digitalized by integrating them into the label with an RFID chip, enabling an automated, more efficient medication inventory process.

While traditional secondary packaging for prefilled polymer syringes consists of a polymer blister, the new cap and label features provide the basis for a blister-free package, while allowing for a first-opening indication, maintaining the integrity of the prefilled syringe and protecting against mechanical impact or dust. This allows the use of cartons instead of polymer blisters, which are easier to open for nurses and doctors, less space-consuming for disposal, and easier to recycle.

The next generation of SCHOTT TOPPAC infuse polymer syringes are available in 3, 5, and 10ml volumes.

“With our next-generation polymer syringe system, we are setting a new standard in the pharmaceutical industry by providing a solution that ensures drug stability, improves operational efficiency, and reduces precious drug and packaging waste,” said Andreas Reisse, CEO of SCHOTT Pharma. “Our collaboration with Schreiner MediPharm and Körber Pharma has enabled us to create a product that truly meets the needs of our customers, healthcare providers, and patients alike.”

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