Schreiner MediPharm, SCHOTT Introduce Prefilled Syringes Powered by RFID Labels

The RFID syringe label. Credit: SCHOTT Pharma

Schreiner MediPharm, a German specialty label developer, is collaborating with SCHOTT Pharma, a provider of pharma drug containment and system solutions, to create a solution that involves equipping prefilled syringes with radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology. Among other applications, the syringe and smart label combination opens up broad opportunities to optimize hospital routines.

Previously, the ongoing partnership between the two parties had revolved around equipping COC syringes with analog functional labels. With this latest effort, the companies are digitizing prefilled syringes. What differentiates the new RFID labels is the combination of conventional product information marking and the application of unique, digital identifiers for each unit. This enables optimized processes in hospital inventory management, patient care and documentation, as well as the digitial identification of medications and medical devices. In addition, digital first-opening indication to protect the integrity of the syringe can be incorporated.

To successfully implement this innovation—and to ensure reliable RFID functionality pertaining to performance and range—various characteristics of the prefilled syringe must be considered. Aside from materials such as COC, PP, or glass, each of which can affect range and trouble-free reading of the tag, syringe size and diameter play a key role: the smaller the syringe, the less space for product marking and integration of the RFID chip. Additionally, smaller tags typically yield shorter read ranges. Syringe curvature may also affect performance, especially in the case of small diameters.

Read more about the new RFID technology here.