Child-resistant paperboard pack for OTC medication packaged in blisters launched

Ecoslide-OTC features a push-button locking mechanism that provides child-resistance while eliminating the need for the more traditional, two-step peel/push-through foil, which many consumers are said to find difficult to open.

The Ecoslide-OTC reclosable locking mechanism is identical to a newly-enhanced, easier-to-activate version found on the company’s Ecoslide-RX 3.0 package. Ecoslide-RX, which has consistently achieved the highest child resistance rating (F=1) through multiple tests, is used to package both clinical trial material and commercial prescription products. Similarly, Ecoslide-OTC’s push-button re-closable locking mechanism is said to address long-standing consumer complaints about the removal process required by most over-the-counter, peel and push child-resistant blister packs. 

Ecoslide-OTC has been identified in consumer research as both conveniently sized and easy to open, and has an increased area to print information or illustrations, when compared to similar-sized bottles.

‘With Ecoslide OTC, our goal is to provide an enhanced consumer experience within the child-resistant/senior-friendly space,’ said Ward Smith, director of marketing and business development at Keystone Folding Box. ‘When you think about this market, the solutions currently on the shelves have remained basically unchanged for over 40 years. Millenials are continuously seeking attractive, alternative, eco-friendly packaging, while the growing senior population is looking for solutions that are easier to open. Ecoslide-OTC addresses all of these challenges.’

Ecoslide-OTC is made from 100 percent recyclable paperboard, and is easily separated from its internal blister for recycling. The blister is disposed of, but is claimed to contain ‘only a fraction of disposable plastic when compared to bottles’. The challenge with recycling traditional prescription medicine bottles is that most curbside programs do not accept them.  Citing figures from the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR), Keystone Folding Box said prescription bottles smaller than 3in in all directions will not be recycled, and ultimately become landfill waste.

In developing Ecoslide-OTC, Keystone Folding Box worked closely with contract packers, who are now reporting growing requests from major retail chains for new and innovative approaches to child-resistant OTC packaging.