Delivering Biologics in Prefilled Syringes: An innovation in parenteral packaging

Abstract

A prefilled syringe is a single-dose packet of vaccine in which a needle has been fixed by the manufacturer, used to deliver parenteral medication. In the past metal or glass syringes were popular, but increasingly there has been a movement towards plastic and disposable syringes so the needle is protected and cannot be re-used. This has stimulated the demand for convenient and safe prefilled syringes in the medical field over conventional glass vials for packing parenteral drugs. Parenteral packaging innovations and applications have made devices easier to use for both the healthcare professional and the patient. Prefilled syringes are used to package injectable drugs and diluents. Filling and stoppering of prefilled syringes are carried out by three process traditional filling and stoppering, online vacuum filling and stoppering and online vacuum filling followed by offline vacuum stoppering in a vacuum chamber. Pre-filled devices which are available in the market as dual chambered syringes, unijet prefilled syringe and BD ready fill TM. Sterilization of prefilled syringe was mainly done by ionizing radiation or by autoclaving. Prefilled technology developments are primarily to accommodate the increasing number of biologic drugs reaching the market. Additionally, the companies have developed multi chamber prefilled syringes for use with lyophilized drugs.