"A Tale of Two Materials: What the Glass vs Polymer Debate Really Means," led by Dr B Boltres and Anil Busimi, over-viewed the strengths and weaknesses of each material and revealed why the question of glass vs polymer always depends on the user's needs for each application. Day one of the workshop focused on glass, covering its chemical and physical properties, hydrolytic resistance and surface alkalinity, as well as drug container interactions and how to prevent glass breakages. Day two turned to polymers, providing an overview of polymer pre-filled syringe (PDF) solutions, materials and properties, and different applications and interactions. Day two concluded with a discussion of how to evaluate whether glass or polymer PFS is best for a particular application, factoring in regulations, fill-finish options, and the challenges of each material. Schott's Dr B Boltres, Product Manager Pharmaceutical Tubing, and Anil Busimi, Head of Product Management, Syringe Business, shared their glass and polymer experience with R&D, fill-finish, regulatory affairs, supply chain, marketing, and top management professionals. "We hear the question again and again: Is glass or polymer the better material for pharmaceutical packaging?" said Busimi. "Especially as PFS solutions grow in popularity and packaging plays a larger role in drug success, the material must meet the needs of the drug and its delivery to patients. In this two day session, we have explained why there is no one answer on which material is better - it depends on the drug and the applications. We will help you weigh the pros and cons of each material so you know what questions to ask to ensure every drug is effective and safe."
