Respiratory therapy ampuls a tough read
The Huntingdon Valley, PA-based Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) has issued a stern warning about labels on respiratory therapy medications packaged in plastic containers called ampuls. The labels are "virtually impossible" to read and pose a serious risk to patient safety, the group says.
Part of the problem is that manufacturers package respiratory medicines in plastic ampuls that are too similar in shape and color, the ISMP reports. In addition, the ampuls’ translucent packaging can make it extremely difficult to see the drug name, strength, lot number, and expiration date embossed on each vial.
The Food and Drug Administration has not responded to the problem despite numerous complaints from health care professionals over the past decade, according to the nonprofit ISMP. Better labeling has been stymied by fears that volatile ingredients in inks, adhesives, and paper could enter and taint medications packaged in vials made of low-density polyethylene, the ISMP reports. There is some legitimacy to that concern, but some solution must be found, the group says.
One solution might be to use colored ink or paper labeling on the portion of the ampul that doesn’t come in contact with the drug solution.
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