MWV to intro new Shellpak Renew packaging through Walmart

MeadWestvaco (MWV) has introduced Shellpak Renew with Optilock, a new packaging structure with an advanced locking mechanism.

Shellpak Renew with Optilock technology features a calendared blister pack and space for the patient educational information. The package’s outer carton is made of MWV’s Natralock, a paperboard-based product.

Optilock is an advanced locking mechanism for the highest level of child resistance. MWV said the development of Optilock shows its long-standing commitment to systems for child resistance in packaging. It has been tested to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s highest standard, F=1. Consistent with the MWV Shellpak platform, Shellpak Renew with Optilock technology can be used for multiple medications/SKUs without re-testing for child resistance.

In addition, Shellpak Renew with Optilock is 23 percent smaller than the original Shellpak Renew, while still accommodating the same medications.

The decreased package size provides a more convenient way for patients to access and carry their medications, while also making dispensing medications quicker and easier for pharmacists, MWV said.

Hung Le, vice-president of global design at MWV, said: ‘Our design mandate is to develop packaging that is not only child-resistant, but also convenient for patients.

‘Shellpak Renew with Optilock technology was designed using insights from both our customers and consumers regarding the importance of efficiency and convenience.’

Last summer, MWV launched Shellpak Renew into Walmart stores.

The new Shellpak Renew package will launch at Walmart pharmacies this summer with medications from Mylan Pharmaceuticals. Mylan will offer 11 SKUs packaged in the new Shellpak Renew with Optilock technology, and has plans to launch additional SKUs in the future.

‘Walmart is committed to developing scalable, accessible solutions to improve patient adherence to medication,’ said Sandy Kinsey, the ice-president responsible for pharmacy merchandising at Walmart. ‘We are proud to offer Shellpak Renew with Optilock technology and are excited about the new, smaller package size, which many of our patients requested.’

‘Mylan is pleased to support the launch of Shellpak Renew with Optilock technology,’ said Tony Mauro, president of Mylan North America. ‘This partnership aligns with our goal to set new standards in health care and expand access to high-quality medicines, as the new packaging presentation encourages patient adherence and convenience while increasing efficiencies inside pharmacies.

‘Mylan looks forward to partnering with customers, patients and providers to continue meeting unmet needs.’

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