Finding the Right Packaging for Your Drugs

Posted in: Product Knowledge 10th September 2020

We all know that the way we package things is vital to make a good impression. However, when it comes to pharmacy packaging there’s more at stake than simply looking nice.

 

According to the NHS, an average of 2.7 million items are dispensed from pharmacies in England every day. Physically storing the variety of boxes and bags that this quantity of medication requires can prove to be a logistical nightmare.

Both community and hospital pharmacists are under a lot of pressure to meet regulatory, budgetary and time expectations, and it’s easy to understand why the choice of which medicine carton or bag to order falls to the bottom of the priority list. However, getting packaging right can improve efficiency, patient safety and save money.

Medicine cartons come in all shapes and sizes. While they are a stockroom staple for any pharmacy, patients and pharmacists alike can overlook the simple ways tablet cartons can improve patient safety and boost efficiency.

Many pharmacists select plain white boxes as cartons to dispense medicine in. While these can be the more economical choice initially, by comparison, a carton that is clearly branded as containing pharmacy medication with dedicated space for necessary warning labels could be a life saver.

By selecting quality, purpose-built packaging pharmacies can be assured that the vital medications they are dispensing to customers are clearly distinguishable from other boxed goods. For example, including the word ‘prescription’ on a carton, while being a seemingly obvious addition, can often be overlooked by packaging providers – yet this can be vital in helping patients, particularly the elderly, keep their vital medications in check.

Opting for packaging suppliers, like Valley Northern, who not only think about patient safety, but operational efficiencies and the needs of the environment will significantly help save space, keep your pharmacy running smoothly and appeal to the eco-conscious consumer. We offer sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic wherever we can, because we believe a clean and cared-for environment contributes towards maintaining patient health and wellbeing.

Contact us today to find out how Valley Northern can help you find the perfect packaging for your drugs. We offer a Custom Print service, so you can tailor your packaging to best suit the needs of your patients and your business. Call us on 01785 250123 or email sales@valleynorthern.com.