Neopac, a global provider of high-quality tube packaging for a broad array of industries and applications, introduced SteriDrop™ tube, which provides exemplary protection and delivery of preservative-free eyedrops.

Filled and sealed on sterile tube filling lines, the SteriDrop™ tube utilizes Neopac’s patented Polyfoil® technology, which previously has been employed for housing eye creams and eye gels. Combined with an ophthalmic squeeze dispenser from partner Aptar Pharma, the packaging concept now proves highly conducive to protecting preservative-free eyedrops from microbiological contamination before, during and after initial consumer use. SteriDrop™ tube can contain volumes up to 30ml, which can easily cover a three months’ supply of daily eye treatment.

The SteriDrop™ tube works as follows: The mechanical system releases a precisely measured drop when pressure is exerted on the tube, and prevents the liquid from flowing back into the tube – thereby guaranteeing a level of microbiological safety previously unattainable. As a result, the product remains sterile over the entire period of application even without preservatives. Meanwhile, the Polyfoil® tube’s exemplary barrier properties protect the product from light, air, water vapor diffusion and migration, further lending to critical content efficacy and overall product durability. 

Preservatives in eyecare formulations, such as benzalkonium chloride (BAC), can lead to side effects with chronic use, prompting a push toward preservative-free products. Microbiologically tested and FDA approved, SteriDrop™ tube amounts to a pharma-grade solution that addresses the resulting challenge of eyecare product protection and durability. The system comes with a wide selection of caps and flow rates to be customized according to the drop formulation. It also eliminates the need for preservatives and additives such as silver ions or surface coating, and secures a metal-free product pathway for dispensing.

The slim, user-friendly SteriDrop™ tube sits comfortably in the user’s hand. Through the form-fitting sheath, the lateral weld is completely obscured, meaning the tube can be printed evenly all over with branding and instructions. Due to the special coating, the Polyfoil® tube retains its shape until the last drop. It also allows the drops to be dispensed predictably, precisely and with little pressure applied to the tube. Additionally, the multi-dose system saves packaging and product compared to single dose packages.

“Our new SteriDrop™ tubes offer an unprecedented combination of product protection and ease of use for eyedrop users,” said Martina Christiansen, Head of Sales and Marketing Pharma of Hoffmann Neopac. “More and more consumers are opting for preservative-free eyecare solutions, making product protection a premium asset.”