ABSTRACT
The parenteral vial/closure seal interface is tested for leakage of gas, liquids, and microorganisms. Gas leakage is determined using a bubble test, liquid leakage is detected by atomic absorption of a copper ion tracer solution, and microbial leakage is verified using a liquid-borne microbial suspension challenge test. Leakage performance by these methods is compared to gaseous leakage rates quantitatively determined for the same package systems. The establishment of leakage rate specifications based on these results is discussed.
Subject(s)
Drug Contamination/prevention & control , Drug Packaging/standards , Solutions/standards , Infusions, Parenteral , Materials Testing , United StatesABSTRACT
Leakage across the parenteral vial/closure seal interface is quantitatively measured in terms of mass of gas per unit time using a differential pressure method of leakage measurement. With this test system, uncoated, Purcoat coated, and film coated closures are compared for their ability to seal nondefective and defective vial surfaces. Correlations are made between closure sealing performance and rubber viscoelasticity, closure coating material type and thickness, and crimped vial residual seal force.
Subject(s)
Drug Packaging/standards , Glass , Infusions, Parenteral/standards , Metals , Quality ControlABSTRACT
A yellow compound was isolated from commercially available, discolored, polyethylene ophthalmic closures containing titanium dioxide and butylated hydroxytoluene (I). This compound was present at 7.46 ppm (w/w). It was identified by UV, IR, and mass spectra as 3,3',5,5'-tetrabis(tert-butyl)stilbenequinone (II), a dimer of I. Further structural confirmation was obtained by NMR. Formation of II is catalyzed by titanium dioxide.
