MeadWestvaco's Packaging Resources Group has developed a range of blister samples and an educational brochure to demonstrate how its new paperboard substrates can be used to enhance packaging for clinical trials, physicians' samples, prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and nutraceuticals.
"MeadWestvaco works closely with pharmaceutical companies to produce products with unique end-use properties that respond to their needs, which can change quickly as a result of government mandates, consumer demands and significant marketing and branding challenges," says Marc Tannenbaum, vice president of marketing for the PRG.
The first tool is a pair of physician's blister samples, used by the industry to increase visibility of new products. These samples are designed to demonstrate the branding benefits and heat-seal performance offered by MeadWestvaco's Printkote EasySeal and Printkote EasySeal Plus paperboards.
Specifically designed for construction of fold-over blister cards, these extrusion-coated paperboards seal with a fibre-tear bond to themselves and most commonly used blister films and foils, including PVC, PVDC-coated PVC and PET. MeadWestvaco also claims that Printkote EasySeal Plus is the only commercially available paperboard that seals consistently to Honeywell International's Aclar film.
The new samples demonstrate a three-day regimen, with one pill taken in the morning and a second in the evening, while the PRG's educational brochure highlights its entire portfolio of substrates for healthcare packaging applications, as well as exploring some of the many development and marketing issues faced by drug companies, such as the importance of clinical trials, shrinking patent windows, growing financial and regulatory pressures, the growth of generics, the need for tamper resistance and more.
Printkote EasySeal and Printkote EasySeal Plus also seal at lower temperatures with shorter dwell times than many competitive, heat-sealable paperboards, resulting in faster line speeds and less product and ink degradation, claims the PRG. "They also help lower total packaging costs as compared with press-applied coatings and deliver premium graphics for enhanced branding and shelf presence," said the firm."Pharmaceutical packaging substrates must suit market preferences, satisfy regulatory demands, enhance branding and help control costs," explained Tony Rozmes, segment manager, packaging, for the PRG.
To request a copy of the physician's blister samples or educational brochure, please contact Tony Rozmes.