Detecting tampering, safeguarding integrity, digitizing supply chains—these requirements are playing an increasing role in pharmaceutical packaging. With its new Cap-Lock Solution for Vials, Schreiner MediPharm in cooperation with CDMO OECHSLERhealth has developed a solution addressing precisely this challenge. The holistic security solution was unveiled at Pharmapack in Paris and met with strong interest.

The integrity of primary containers is of central importance along the entire pharmaceutical supply chain—from the filling stage to administration to the patient. In the case of vials, flip-off caps offer a certain level of protection but are prone to tampering without it being detectable by the user. That’s exactly where Schreiner MediPharm’s Cap-Lock comes into play by enabling a first-opening indication that is unequivocal, irreversible, and clearly visible. Due to the interlocking of the specially developed plastic cap from OECHSLERhealth with the flip-off cap of the vial, and the Cap-Lock Label applied on top of it featuring a special security design, any opening attempt is immediately visible, precluding any undetected recapping.

Analogue Security Meets Digital Intelligence
Besides its analog security function Cap-Lock for Vials supports digitalization of pharmaceutical applications. A label-integrated RFID chip enables digital first-opening indication and tracking of individual vials on unit level. The RFID functionality enables thus automated medication management in hospital settings and helps optimize processes and avoid inventory errors. Previously opened vials can be automatically detected, which signifcantly enhances patient safety. An additional NFC functionality enables smartphone-based authentication and supports product and brand protection.

Combined Expertise
The implementation of Cap-Lock for Vials is the result of the targeted collaboration of two specialists. While Schreiner MediPharm contributed its many years of expertise in the development of multifunctional high-tech labels and comprehensive RFID know-how, OECHSLERhealth designed the custom-fit plastic cap. The focus was on achieving an efficient, reliable, and feasible solution meeting the requirements of the pharmaceutical industry in terms of product and patient safety.

Strong Interest at Pharmapack
At Pharmapack in Paris, Schreiner MediPharm presented Cap-Lock for Vials to an international audience of industry professionals for the first time. Response at the trade show booth was very positive. Especially the combination of clear first-opening indication and digital functionality met with strong interest by pharmaceutical manufacturers and packaging experts. Cap-Lock shows how analog security and digital added value can be effectively combined and how innovative packaging solutions deliver concrete answers to growing demands made on product integrity, transparency, and automation.