Self-contained, bronchial package simplifies storage and use - Retailer Perspective - GlaxoSmithKline packaging versus Novartis - Brief Article

CATEGORY: Prescription bronchial Inhaler

What package(s) I like and why? Here's an example of how a company "got it right" when it comes to the packaging. Serevent Diskus from GlaxoSmithKline is an inhaler device that is pre-loaded with the medicine so it's simple for the patient to use.

The Serevent Diskus is also simple to store, both for the user and for the pharmacy. It doesn't need to be refrigerated and the device holds a one-month supply.

The product comes one to a carton and, inside, it's packaged in a convenient pouch. The product is designed so that everything you need is in one piece. All you have to do is open the pouch and press a button to dispense the medicine. A counter on the device even keeps track of the number of doses.

It's a bit more expensive than the competitive product but it's very easy to store, use and carry.

What package(s) I don't like and why?

The package for Foradil Aerolizer from Novartis is more cumbersome. For one thing, it does have to be refrigerated in the pharmacy, but not by the patient at home. We've had to buy a bigger refrigerator to accommodate the number of products that now ask for refrigeration. I don't know why they need to refrigerate this drug in the pharmacy. But it's a hassle for us.

Another thing that I don't like is that this product is packaged with the inhaler device and the medicine capsules separate and it needs to be put together by the patient. But the pharmacist needs to be able to show the patient how to assemble and use the product. The capsule goes in a certain way and the device is in multiple pieces that you have to put together just right. It's a procedural process that's cumbersome. And there's several capsules in the pouch to use over time that you have to keep track of.

Plus, there's a sticker on the outside of the carton that the pharmacist has to write on, and the patient has to write on, to keep track of the date the capsules are used. With in this product and package, there's more work for the patient. Maybe the company had to do this because of the stability of the drug or maybe they tried to hit a certain price point. The thing about that, though, is because most patients have insurance, the price may not even be an issue. I know that, for my family, I don't care about the cost difference. I care about the ease of use.

Tim Smith is Pharmacist in Charge at Burger Drugs Inc., a small, community drug store located in St. Charles, III. He's also one of the owners of the privately held store that provides personal service to its customers.

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