Two women standing at a table with ampoules in hand
Published on Wednesday, January 24, 2024

How to choose the best ampoules for your filling line

The fill-and-finish process has continually evolved in the pharmaceutical industry, transitioning from manual operations to semi-automated and fully automated systems. A crucial component of this process is the selection of appropriate primary packaging containers, such as ampoules, vials, or syringes, each of which plays a key role in maintaining drug stability and ensuring accurate dosing.

The standardization of ampoules

Historically, the design and manufacture of ampoules have been responsive to innovations in fill-and-finish practices. The International Standard ISO 9187-1, last updated in 2010, set the standard for three primary forms of ampoules: Forms B, C, and D. This standardization ensured compatibility with evolving drug delivery systems and facilitated the uniform assessment of container closure integrity (CCI), extractables, and leachables.

Unpacking the three types of ampoules

Form B ampoules: Versatility and precision

Form B ampoules, the latest in the evolution of ampoule design, were engineered with improved steam and funnel dimensions to complement modern fill-and-finish machines. They are particularly suited to fill-and-finish devices that require a precise filling needle insertion. However, form B ampoules can be used in all type of fill-and-finish machines that include a washing, drying and depyrogenation module - including old fill-and-finish machines, through a slight reduction on the line speed to achieve precision during filling. 

Form B ampoules dominate the market in regions such as China, EMEA, and APAC

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Form B ampoules are strongly recommended as the standard glass container. These ampoules offer versatility in fill-and-finish production sites as they can be employed in various machine types. Additionally, their shorter height and narrower opening make sealing the ampoule more convenient. Many pharmaceutical companies have recognized these advantages, making Form B ampoules the most widely utilized in three of the largest markets.

Form C ampoules: Legacy and functionality

Form C ampoules, one of the oldest types, feature a wider opening designed for compatibility with less precise filling needles. They are the preferred choice in North and Central America and parts of Asia and South America. Despite their larger dimensions than Form B, these ampoules offer a practical solution for older fill-and-finish machines. A wider opening is beneficial to avoid droplets of solution into the inner walls of the steam.

Form C ampoules distinguish themselves for having a wider opening (roughly +10%) and greater total height (roughly +10%) than form B.

PHARMA_blog ampoules fill-finish_formc.png

Form D ampoules: Simplicity since the beginning

Form D ampoules, also known as closed ampoules, were designed for machines without the washing, drying,  and depyrogenation module. At the time they were created, particles were not an issue, and more important was to ease the production for fill-and-finish. With the help of a burner, the CDMO or Pharmaceutical company achieves the opening of the ampoule before filling and the final closing. These ampoules continue being popular in markets such as South America and North and Central America.

The opening and total height dimensions of D ampoules are bigger than in form B and C.

PHARMA_blog ampoules fill-finish_formd.png

Due to the absence of washing before filling, Form D ampoules pose an elevated risk of potential contamination coming into contact with the drug solution, that can cause a potential threat to patient health. Consequently, it is advisable to recommend Form D ampoules in situations where there is the option of implementing a complete line equipped with a washing and depyrogenation module. This setup enables the use of Form D ampoules, mitigating the risk associated with potential contamination.

Key considerations when navigating ampoule selection

Selecting the best ampoules for your fill-and-finish line involves an in-depth understanding of the different ampoule forms and their compatibility with your manufacturing process. However, choosing the right ampoule involves considerations beyond the fill-and-finish line requirements. Factors such as light sensitivity, and the risk of extractables and leachables should all be considered. 

SCHOTT Pharma offers you a broad portfolio which includes FIOLAX® CHR Borosilicate Glass for high sensible solutions (and/or an improved conversion process to achieve higher hydrolytic resistance levels) and different break-systems, between them, eaysOPC whose breakforce range and consistency eliminates hard to open ampoule, while protecting HCPs from injuries while opening these glass containers.

SCHOTT Pharma: Pioneering ampoule technologies

SCHOTT Pharma, a leading provider of pharmaceutical packaging solutions, offers an extensive range of ampoules designed to meet diverse fill-and-finish needs. More than 100 years of expertise in producing ampoules, allows us to adapt to all our customers’ needs, simplifying your fill-and-finish processes while decreasing your total cost of ownership. 

If you would like to learn more about our drug container solutions, please get in touch by filling out the contact form below.

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Whether you need more information or advice for a project, I would be delighted to talk to you.

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Product Manager Ampoule Victoria de la Torre
Victoria de la Torre

Global Product Manager

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