[The role of the packaging in terms of safety and good use of medicines].

The pharmaceutical packaging is an essential constituent of medicinal products because it guarantees its stability and integrity. It is sometimes an intrinsic part of the pharmaceutical form itself. Furthermore, the pharmaceutical packaging has always been an essential information medium for patients (labelling, leaflet) but also for professionals (such as pharmacists, other pharmacy staff or nurses) at the time of drug delivery. Of course, the information delivered to the patient through the packaging has to be in accordance with the Marketing Authorization terms. Besides, this information is included in the drug Marketing Authorization (annexes II and III). The information delivered has to be clear because patients generally refer to the leaflet when no professional is available for advice. An easy-to-use pharmaceutical packaging also guarantees the good use of medicinal products and promotes patient compliance (for example, pack and calendar blisters). It is also a safety guarantee when it uses specific methods, such as single-dose packaging (particularly in hospital setting) or safety caps for children. The drug leaflet must clearly mention utilisation for some difficult use forms (case of medicinal products for asthma or insulin pens). Lastly, the pharmaceutical packaging also helps to recognize the drug, which in itself is part of the safety process all along the supply chain. Indeed, drug packaging's major role is to avoid confusion with other drugs among professionals and patients alike.