Pharmapack 2026: Moving Toward a Large-Volume Future
From managing high viscosity to preventing agglomeration, the industry is shifting toward larger-volume, device-compatible solutions that prioritize both drug stability and healthcare efficiency, points out Dr. Robert Lindner from SCHOTT Pharma.
“We are definitely seeing that formulations and APIs are becoming more complex and this does present unique challenges for primary packaging,” notes Dr. Robert Lindner, Global Product Manager for Bulk and Sterile Cartridges at SCHOTT Pharma. “At the end of the day, each parenteral drug needs a primary container to safely transport it from the point of production to the point of administration, and with the rise of biologics and further advanced formulations, typical issues we are facing are high viscosity and sensitivity to silicon.”
Focusing on monoclonal antibodies as an example, Lindner points out that at high concentrations these molecules can end up with such increased viscosity that they are at risk of agglomeration — the formation of small particles — or can lose efficacy as their molecular structure is being changed. “In order to address this, the industry is moving towards larger volume formulations, effectively bringing the viscosity down by diluting it a bit more, and this, of course, naturally requires larger containers,” he says.
“Simultaneously, advances have been made in formulation and injection technology over the past few years,” Lindner continues. Previously, upper limits for single injections were at the 2.25 mL level, he remarks; however, thanks to advances, it is now feasible and possible to inject volumes from 5, 10, and even 20 mL.
Looking at the available solutions, Lindner reveals that there are robust portfolios available, such as SCHOTT Pharma’s cartriQ ready-to-use cartridges in 5 or 10 mL sizes, that can be paired with compatible devices. “[The compatibility] is key because for a cartridge you always need a device to administer the drug,” he says.
Additionally, Lindner highlights that SCHOTT Pharma’s glass cartridges are compatible with a wearable on-body injectors, pens, and autoinjectors, increasing the convenience of administration and use. “Studies show that when you switch a drug from intravenous to subcutaneous administration, it reduces the time a healthcare professional needs to spend with a patient by up to 60%, and this directly translates into lower costs for the overall healthcare system,” he adds.
Click the video above to view the full interview
SCHOTT Pharma will be exhibiting at Pharmapack and can be found at booth 4G38. Dr. Robert Lindner will also be presenting alongside his colleague, Isabelle Jeangoudoux, on the topic of large volume subcutaneous injections at 12:55 PM on Wednesday Jan. 21.
About the Speaker
Dr. Robert Lindner is the Global Product Manager for bulk and sterile cartridges at SCHOTT Pharma. He covers the whole value chain from primary packaging design and production to sterile secondary packaging. He also works on bringing additional value to pharmaceutical companies through novel secondary packaging solutions, ensuring GMP Annex I compliance. He has multiple years of experience in primary packaging and fill-and-finish processes, as well as managing international R&D projects and global technology networks. Robert holds a PhD in Physical Chemistry from Mainz University.
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