Richmond-based packaging company MeadWestvaco Corp. has introduced new packaging for medications that will be used at more than 3,600 Walmart pharmacies this summer.
The packaging, called Shellpak Renew, will feature a tear-resistant, recyclable outer carton, an easy-slide blister and an integrated calendar for patients to track medications.
Research shows that half of all patients in the U.S. today do not take their medicines as prescribed. Poor medication adherence can lead to worsening of disease, serious and avoidable health risks, increased hospitalizations and even death. The annual cost of non-adherence in the U.S. is estimated to be $290 billion, representing 13 percent of total healthcare expenditures.
“Among the many adherence solutions that are available to help patients take their medications as prescribed, medication packaging may be uniquely effective as one of the last opportunities to educate patients about how to take their medications safely and effectively,” explains MWV’s John Grinnell, vice president and managing director, for MWV Healthcare’s Secondary and Adherence Packaging Division.
Shellpak Renew is based on MWV’s original Shellpak design, and was developed based on feedback from pharmacists and patients. The new packaging has a smaller footprint requiring less shelf space.
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