Pills in blister.
Blister packs are a specific type of product packaging consisting of preformed plastic, molded and heat sealed onto a printed card. This packaging is most commonly used to contain pharmaceuticals, but can also be used to package other small consumer goods. The cardboard card holder can also contain a layer of paper, foil or plastic. The preformed molded compartment is transparent, allowing the consumer to easily see its contents.
Blister packs are used to package drugs dispensed in pharmacies and over-the-counter drugs.
The most common use of blister packs is to pack medicine capsules or tablets in single-dose units. They are used to package drugs dispensed in pharmacies and over-the-counter drugs. Typically, the capsule or tablet contained in the blister pack is pushed to the back of the attached card, and therefore in many parts of the world, this type of packaging is known as push-in packs (PTPs). The individual compartments are usually separated by a perforation so that they can be detached from the card individually.
Blister packs offer several benefits for the manufacturer and the consumer. This type of packaging helps manufacturers meet shelf life requirements and also prevents tampering. They also allow manufacturers to print specific information on the back of each individual compartment. Consumers also benefit from this information. The only drawback for consumers is the difficulty in removing the capsule from some packages. People with arthritis or another degenerative disease that affects dexterity may have difficulty taking the pills.
Examples of other products that can be packaged and distributed in blister packs include contact lenses, hardware, small toys, and craft supplies. Many packaging companies offer manufacturers various types of custom packaging. A similar type of packaging, known as skin packaging, involves sealing consumer goods in a cardboard box with a single plastic sheet instead of individual plastic compartments.