BERRY Global has launched a new child-resistant closure that integrates ‘innovative’ digital technology to improve medication adherence.
The firm said the new Berry Digi-Cap is ‘ideal’ for clinical trials, drug development, research, and academic studies. Patient behaviour data is analysed to enhance medicine adherence and gain insights into its effectiveness relative to the prescribed regime.
A microprocessor incorporated into the closure records patient openings and stores usage history in its memory. In addition, the closure continuously monitors and logs temperature storage levels, which can provide valuable data for research and development.
The microprocessor is activated once the patient pushes down to open the closure. It records and stores various parameters, and the information can then be transferred via NFC to external devices for further viewing and analysis. The data can be uploaded to a patient-facing mobile app and to web portals for healthcare professionals to review and utilise for optimising treatment plans.
As well as promoting enhanced patient adherence, the amount of data collected has been tipped to assist pharmaceutical manufacturers and healthcare providers in optimising trial efficiency and increasing the effectiveness of medications. The app can also remind patients when to take their medication and how to store it properly.
Drug companies can add extra features such as LED lights to show when the medication should be taken, for example by flashing green at the appropriate time.
Healthcare professionals can analyse the behavioural data to identify compliance or non-compliance, support test results and conclusions, and to fine-tune timings for taking the medication to maximise its effectiveness.
The patent-pending 38mm closure features a fine-ribbed sidewall for enhanced grip, providing ease of use for patients. The push-down and turn child-resistant mechanism is said to ensure product security, while clear pictorial opening instructions further simplify the patient experience. An audible click feature gives a sound indication of opening for added reassurance.
The closure is compatible with 38-400 standard pharma packaging bottles and existing filling lines. Berry offers a range of pill jar bottles in different dimensions and shapes to match the closure. Test and programming software packages are available for both automatic and manual filling operations.
Chad Rice, Berry Healthcare business development director, said, “This is a very advanced closure that provides extra benefits from the data it can amass, but it was important that it looked and felt the same for the patient so as not affect or influence their usage in any way. That is what makes our Digi-Cap so unique in that it matches our standard 38mm child resistant closures while incorporating this innovative technology.”
