The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 278 No 7454 p655
2 June 2007

Society summary

BRM reports

BRM asks for image of dose form on packs of tablets and capsules

A motion calling for an accurate image of the dose form to be printed on the packaging of tablets and capsules was carried by the branch representatives’ meeting.

Chris Cairns (South West Metropolitan) moved: “That the Society works with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency and other appropriate bodies to ensure that an accurate representation of the shape, colour, size and any marking on tablets or capsules should be printed on the outside of the pack.” He said that patient pack dispensing meant that pharmacists no longer knew what the tablets they dispensed looked like. That made it difficult to ensure that patients received the right medicine.

Tony Pugh (Brighton) seconding, said that the issue was one of patient safety.

Andrew Hersom (Hull) said that the idea was good in principle, but would not work. Most packs were printed in two colours and adding an image using the colours of the dosage form would be expensive. The Government would not want the added cost. Descriptions of tablets and capsules were well known and well publicised.

Anthony Cox (Birmingham) said that carrying the motion would send a message about a problem faced by pharmacists and patients. The issue of cost seemed strange given the amount the industry spent on branding their products and changing their labelling and their boxes purely for branding issues.

Allan Asher (East Metropolitan) said that he was in favour of the sentiment of the motion but thought it all but impossible to implement.

Stephanie Bancroft (Harrow and Hillingdon) said that one innovative company was already doing what was suggested. She did not see why others could not do the same.