The role of labels in the modern medical industry

Clear, accurate, long-lasting, and easy-to-read labels are absolutely vital in the medical industry. Without proper labelling, medical personnel may not know which pharmaceutical products or medical devices to use in any given situation, or how best to use and store those products.

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For these reasons, and many more, it's imperative for healthcare and medical organisations to work with trusted labelling providers, ensuring that all relevant products, from medications to devices, are correctly labelled in accordance with industry guidelines and regulations.

This guide will look at the key roles that medical labels have to play in the modern medical industry, examining some of the most common types of medical labels and looking ahead to the future of label innovation.

Types of labels used in the medical industry

There are many different labels in use in the medical field today. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the most common types, with descriptions of each variety and the kind of information it should typically convey.

Medical device labels

Medical device labels are those that are placed onto medical devices of all kinds, from IV pumps to blood pressure monitors. They typically provide information about the usage of the device, as well as directions or instructions on how to use it safely and correctly to avoid any injuries or accidents.

Imaging and radiology labels

Imaging and radiology labels are usually found in the scan or X-ray department of a clinic or hospital. These labels can be quite varied in their form and function. Some are warning labels, letting patients and personnel know about the risks of radiation exposure, while others may be affixed directly onto X-ray scans.

Laboratory labels 

Medical laboratories are where various patient samples can be analysed and tested, and it's crucial for the correct labels to be attached to any samples or specimens. Labels may also be needed to provide warnings and alerts in regard to biohazardous or contaminated materials.

Pharmacy labels  

As well as labs and hospitals, pharmacies also form part of the medical industry and require their own sets of labels. Pharmacy labels can be attached to drugs and medications, providing information about each drug's contents, ideal storage conditions, uses, and expiry dates, along with patient information for prescriptions.

Medical labels for patient charts

Hospital staff often make use of patient charts to keep track of a patient's progression as they undergo treatment. Labels can be helpful to attach to charts to provide updates or additional pieces of information regarding the patient's health, making it easier and more convenient for doctors and nurses to provide the appropriate treatment.

Labelling innovations in the medical industry

It’s clear to see that labels are vital for the proper functioning of any medical organisation or environment, from a lab to a hospital. In order to ensure that the highest standards of care and precision are met, many medical organisations are investing in exciting new labelling innovations that make medical labels even more powerful, informative, and efficient.

Smart labels 

One of the most exciting innovations in medical labelling is the development of smart labels. Just like other smart devices, smart labels are labels that incorporate new technologies, like RFID tags or NFC systems, which essentially allows the label to communicate or interact with connected devices, like phones and computers, via some kind of scan or signal. This allows a single label to convey much more information, without taking up more space.

Electronic labels

Electronic labels are another form of new labelling technology that is having an impact on the medical sector. As the name implies, electronic labels make use of electrical energy to display information on a screen, usually made of electronic paper (e-paper) or an LCD screen. The information on electronic labels can be adjusted as needed, effectively allowing the label to be re-written without the need to dispose of the old one and produce a new one.

Nanotechnology-based labels 

It's even possible to make use of nanotechnology-based labels in the medical sector. These labels can be imbued with the powers of nano-technology, which allows for vast amounts of information to be stored and conveyed in an incredibly small space. This could be useful for providing in-depth information about the provenance of a medical device or the full ingredients list of a medication, for example.

Polymer fusion technology

Polymer fusion technology is one of the most exciting innovations in sustainable labelling of recent years. This labelling method involves the use of specialised pigments that are utilised to create a kind of ink that can fuse permanently to certain types of plastics, effectively forming a truly permanent label that is part of the product itself. This technology is the ideal option for medical devices, as it creates labels that will never fade or wear away.

Future of labels in the medical industry 

The future-proof labelling technology is set to transform the modern medical industry including supply-chain management, cold-chain monitoring, track-and-trace compliance, and authentication. With the use of innovative technologies such as polymer fusion, and nanotechnology-based labelling among others, medical devices are traceable, and well-monitored, from the manufacturer, all the way through, to retailers, and even to the consumers. We can expect more medical organisations to make use of sustainable and long-lasting labelling solutions to uphold higher and more consistent standards of safety, both for their staff and their patients.

When it comes to medical device labels, clarity and quality are the two key aspects. These labels need to be very clear and easy for personnel to read and understand, and they need to be of sufficient quality to convey information for long periods of time, even when exposed to harsh chemicals or difficult conditions.

Consumer demand for safe and effective labelling

It’s not only medical personnel who can benefit from safe, effective medical labels. Consumers and patients are also expecting a higher level of label nowadays. Patients want to rest assured that they’re in the safest hands, and the demand for smart medical labelling is rising, all over the globe. The time is right, therefore, for medical businesses and organisations to take their labels to the next level.

Pharmaceutical labeling is a critical aspect of the drug manufacturing process. It involves the creation of labels that provide important information about a drug, including its name, strength, dosage, and instructions for use. These labels are necessary for both healthcare providers and patients to ensure safe and effective use of medication. In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about pharmaceutical labeling, including the standards it follows, regulatory requirements, and how to create the labels that you need for your company.
Whether you work in a facility that produces pharmaceutical products, a hospital that uses them, or you are a pharmacist, it is important to be as informed as possible when it comes to these types of labels.

What is Pharmaceutical Labeling?

Pharmaceutical labeling is the process of creating labels that are affixed to drug containers, packaging, or inserts. These labels provide critical information to healthcare providers and patients about the drug, including its name, strength, dosage, route of administration, indications for use, contraindications, warnings, and precautions. They also provide instructions for use, including how to administer the drug and how often it should be taken.

Pharmaceutical labels are designed to be clear, concise, and easy to read. They must comply with regulatory requirements and industry standards to ensure that the information provided is accurate and consistent. The labeling must also be designed with the end user in mind, taking into account factors such as age, literacy, and cultural background.

Standards for Pharmaceutical Labeling

Pharmaceutical labeling is subject to several industry standards and guidelines. These standards help to ensure that labeling is consistent and meets regulatory requirements. The standards come from both governmental agencies and private firms. In many cases, the standards listed from various groups will overlap to help ensure people throughout the world are providing the best information possible to those who use it.

Some of the key standards for pharmaceutical labeling include:

• ISO 15223-1: This standard provides guidance on the use of symbols in medical device labeling, including pharmaceutical labeling.
• ISO 14971: This standard outlines the risk management process for medical devices, including pharmaceuticals. It helps manufacturers to identify and mitigate risks associated with their products.
• ICH Q7: This guideline provides guidance on the manufacture of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). It includes requirements for labeling of APIs and finished products.
• FDA CFR Part 201: This regulation outlines the requirements for labeling of prescription and over-the-counter drugs in the United States. It includes requirements for content, format, and placement of information on drug labels.
• EU Directive 2001/83/EC: This directive outlines the requirements for pharmaceutical labeling in the European Union. It includes requirements for the content, format, and placement of information on drug labels.

Regulatory Requirements for Pharmaceutical Labeling

While it is certainly important to know and follow the industry best practices that are put out by private companies and groups, it is a requirement to follow laws related to pharmaceutical labeling. These requirements are designed to ensure that the labeling is accurate, consistent, and provides the necessary information to healthcare providers and patients.

In most cases, the regulatory requirements that need to be followed will either be the same as, or at least draw heavily from, the data that has been published by other organizations. This means that if you are following the industry best practices put out by other companies, the chances are you are also in compliance with your governmental regulations. Of course, that is not always the case so being aware of what requirements are in place where you are operating is absolutely essential.

In the United States, pharmaceutical labeling is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA requires that drug labels include certain information, including:

• Name of the Drug - The drug's established name or proprietary name needs to be clearly listed. This makes it easier for the patient to confirm they are taking the right drug, and will also allow them to look up further information quickly if they need to.
• The Active Ingredient(s) – Many pharmaceuticals contain multiple ingredients that work together to provide the results the patient needs. Listing all active ingredients will allow patients to quickly identify if there is something that they are allergic to within the drug. It also helps pharmacists to identify any potential issues with prescribing drugs that could have dangerous interactions.
• The Strength of the Drug – Most drugs come in a variety of different strengths so it is critical that this information is clearly displayed on the label so that the patient knows what they are taking. This is also important information for the pharmacist who is distributing the drug.
• The Dosage Form – Listing what form the product comes in is important. This could be tablets, pills, capsules, liquid, or other forms.
• Method of Administration – Describing how the drug is to be administered is important. Examples of the method of administration for most pharmaceuticals includes oral, nasal spray, intravenous, suppository, or topical application.
• Indications for Use – Listing what situations a pharmaceutical should be used in is often required. Some medications are to be taken according to a set schedule, others are only taken when a symptom (such as pain or nausea) occurs.
• Contraindications – If there are situations where the pharmaceutical should not be used, it needs to be listed on the label. For example, if a rash develops after the first dose, the patient should discontinue usage and contact their doctor.
• Warnings and Precautions – Most pharmaceuticals will have certain warnings and precautions that need to be included on the label or on a pamphlet that is included with the medication.
• Adverse Reactions – When there are known potential side effects, listing them on the label is often required.
• Drug Interactions – Some types of known drug interactions need to be listed on the labeling or other informative locations. This is especially true when the interaction is to commonly used drugs such as over the counter medication.
• Storage Instructions – Pharmaceutical labeling will typically need to include instructions on how to store it. Some medications need to be kept refrigerated, others need to be kept at room temperature. Whatever the requirements for a specific medication should be listed on the labeling.
• The Expiration Date – Almost all pharmaceuticals will have an expiration date, which should be listed on the label that is attached to the container itself. Taking expired pharmaceuticals can cause them to be dangerous or ineffective.

Of course, not every label will need to include every one of the items listed above. Each type of pharmaceutical will have a different set of requirements based on the specific details related to the medication or other product.

In addition, some of the information listed above will need to be placed directly on the container for the pharmaceutical, while other information can be listed on a box, paper instructions, or other locations. In general, the more important the information is, the more likely that it will need to be placed directly on the container of the medication. As the information becomes less critical, it can be moved to locations that are further removed from the pharmaceutical itself.

Labels Must be Easy to Read

The FDA also requires that the label be easy to read and understand, with clear formatting and legible text. The label must be prominently displayed on the drug container or packaging and must include the name and address of the manufacturer or distributor.

Generations ago, most of the information that was placed on pharmaceutical labels was handwritten by the doctor, pharmacist, or other individual. Today, it is required in almost all situations to have the labels printed in a way that will ensure that they can be read by the patient. In general, this means that the label must be printed off using a proper label printer.

In large pharmaceutical factories where bulk products are made, this may mean using an industrial printer that produces thousands of labels at a time. At an individual pharmacy or related location, an industrial label printer that produces one at a time is usually more appropriate.

There are many aspects of pharmaceutical labeling that impact how easily the information can be understood by the patient who will be taking it. Some of the things that manufacturers and pharmacists need to think about when printing or designing labels include the following:

Font Used for Pharmaceutical Labeling

The font used in pharmaceutical labeling is also a critical element in ensuring that patients and healthcare providers can easily read and understand the information presented on medication packaging. The FDA mandates that all prescription and over-the-counter medications have labeling that is legible and easily readable by the average person. Therefore, pharmaceutical companies use fonts that are clear, concise, and easy to read, even for those with impaired vision.

The most commonly used font for pharmaceutical labeling is Arial, which is a sans-serif typeface that is easy to read and has a modern, professional look. Arial is widely used in many industries and is familiar to most people, making it an ideal choice for pharmaceutical labeling. Other sans-serif fonts, such as Helvetica and Verdana, are also commonly used in pharmaceutical labeling due to their legibility and clear, clean lines.

In addition to the font choice, pharmaceutical labeling also requires specific font sizes and styles. The FDA mandates that the font size be at least 6 points or larger for prescription drug labeling and 8 points or larger for over-the-counter medication labeling. The font style must also be in bold, and key information such as drug name and strength must be in uppercase letters. Overall, the font used in pharmaceutical labeling plays a crucial role in ensuring that patients and healthcare providers can quickly and easily read and understand the critical information presented on medication packaging.

Colors Used for Labeling

Another crucial aspect of pharmaceutical labeling is the use of specific colors to convey information about the medication to the patient and healthcare providers. These colors are standardized by regulatory agencies such as the FDA, and their use is mandatory for all prescription and over-the-counter medications.

The color-coding system used in pharmaceutical labeling is based on the type of medication and the information it conveys. For example, drugs with a high potential for abuse and addiction, such as opioids and stimulants, are required to have a warning label with a distinctive orange color. Similarly, medications that require special handling or storage, such as refrigeration, are labeled with blue color coding. Additionally, some medications use colors to differentiate between dosages or strengths, such as pink for a lower dose and blue for a higher dose. Overall, the use of specific colors in pharmaceutical labeling helps to ensure that patients and healthcare providers can quickly and easily identify important information about the medication and use it safely and effectively.

Symbols Used on Labeling

Symbols used in pharmaceutical labeling are another critical aspect of ensuring patient safety and medication effectiveness. The use of standardized symbols can help patients and healthcare providers easily identify important information about the medication, such as dosage, storage requirements, and potential side effects.

One common symbol used in pharmaceutical labeling is the Rx symbol, which indicates that the medication is a prescription drug and can only be dispensed by a licensed healthcare professional. Another commonly used symbol is the biohazard symbol, which indicates that the medication is hazardous and requires special handling or disposal. Additionally, some medications use symbols to convey dosage or strength, such as a triangle for a high dose or a square for a low dose.

Pharmaceutical labeling also uses symbols to convey potential side effects or warnings. For example, a symbol of a pregnant woman with a line through it indicates that the medication is not safe to use during pregnancy. A skull and crossbones symbol indicates that the medication is toxic and should be handled with extreme caution. Similarly, a symbol of a black box with white text indicates that the medication has a high risk of serious side effects and should only be used when other treatments have failed.

Overall, the use of standardized symbols in pharmaceutical labeling plays a crucial role in ensuring that patients and healthcare providers can quickly and easily identify important information about the medication and use it safely and effectively.

Language Used on Labels

The language used on pharmaceutical labeling is an important consideration in ensuring patient safety and medication effectiveness. Patients come from diverse backgrounds, and many may not have English as their primary language. Therefore, it is critical to use the language of the patient on medication labeling to ensure that they can understand important information about their medication.

Using the language of the patient on pharmaceutical labeling can help to reduce medication errors, increase patient compliance, and improve overall health outcomes. When patients can read and understand the medication labeling, they are more likely to take their medication correctly and at the right time, reducing the risk of adverse drug events.

In addition to improving patient safety, using the language of the patient on pharmaceutical labeling can also help to improve patient satisfaction and trust in their healthcare provider. Patients who feel that their healthcare provider is taking the time to understand their language and cultural needs are more likely to have a positive experience and feel confident in their treatment.

Design and Layout of the Labels

In addition to all of the points listed individually above, it is also important to consider the overall design and layout of the labels. Deciding where each piece of information is placed on the label will help to ensure that the information is conveyed in as clear a way as possible.

In most cases the label will have all the critical details listed directly on the back of the box or other container so that the patient can easily access it. Less important information can be contained on a peel away part of the label, or on the sides of the container.

No matter where the label will be placed, there is almost never going to be enough room to contain every bit of information that could be helpful. With this in mind, one must design the label to include the most important information in the most prominent places so that the patient can find it without any issues.

Pharmaceutical Labeling is Not Just for Drugs

Pharmaceutical labeling is not limited to drugs or medicines alone. It can also be found on other healthcare products, such as medical devices, dietary supplements, and even cosmetics. These products may have labeling requirements that are similar to those for drugs, or they may have unique requirements based on their intended use.

Medical devices, for example, must have labeling that includes information on the device's intended use, proper use and maintenance, as well as any risks associated with its use. The labeling must also include the device's name, model number, and any specific warnings or contraindications.

Dietary supplements, on the other hand, may have labeling requirements that differ from those for drugs. The label must include the supplement's name, serving size, and ingredients, as well as any specific warnings or contraindications. The label must also include a statement that the product has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Cosmetics also have specific labeling requirements that are designed to inform consumers about the product's ingredients, potential allergens, and directions for use. The label must include the product's name, any warnings or precautions, and the net weight or volume of the product.

In general, the purpose of pharmaceutical labeling on non-drug products is to provide consumers with the information they need to make informed decisions about using the product safely and effectively. The labeling must be clear, accurate, and complete, and it must adhere to any regulatory requirements specific to the product's intended use.

Common Labeling Errors and How to Prevent Them

Pharmaceutical labels are an essential way to provide patients with helpful information to ensure their medications can provide them with the results they are looking for. When the label has incorrect information, however, it can have devastating consequences. Learning about common labeling errors and how to prevent them will help to ensure patients are as safe as possible.

The most common types of labeling errors center around having incorrect or incomplete information. If the label printed has the wrong medication name, for example, the patient may take it when they shouldn’t. If it has the wrong dosage information, they may take too much or too little to be effective. Having unclear labels is another issue that can cause confusion and put the health of the patient at risk.

While pharmaceutical labeling errors are rare, they can have serious consequences. With this in mind, it is important for everyone working with or around any type of pharmaceuticals to take steps to avoid these errors or, if one should occur, to catch it and fix it before it gets to the customer. The following are some ways to prevent pharmaceutical labeling:

• Double-Check All Information - Ensure that all information on the label, including the medication name, strength, dosage form, and administration instructions, is correct and complete. Double-checking this information before printing or applying the label can help to prevent errors.
• Use Standardized Labels - Using standardized labels with pre-printed information, such as medication name, strength, and dosage, can help to reduce the risk of errors caused by transcription mistakes.
• Verify Dosages – If there are ever any questions, make sure to verify the dosage information with a second healthcare professional to ensure that it is accurate and appropriate for the patient.
• Use Clear and Concise Language – When the verbiage of a label is not set by the FDA or other regulatory agencies, use clear and concise language to ensure that patients can easily understand the instructions for taking their medication. Avoid using medical jargon or abbreviations that may be confusing to patients.
• Check for Language Barriers - If the patient speaks a language other than English, ensure that the label is printed in their native language or that a translator is available to explain the information to them.
• Consider Special Populations - Consider the needs of special populations, such as elderly patients or those with visual impairments, and ensure that the label is designed to meet their specific needs.
• Check Third Party Labels – Just because a label comes from a manufacturer or other third-party does not mean it is correct. Checking the labels of pharmaceuticals as they arrive will help to confirm accuracy.
• Train Staff - Ensure that all staff involved in labeling medications receive proper training on labeling requirements and best practices for preventing errors.
• Conduct Regular Audits - Conduct regular audits of the labeling process to identify and address any potential errors.
• Encourage Questions – Make sure that all employees working with any pharmaceuticals are encouraged to question anything they believe may be wrong. Whether it is the pharmacist, pharmaceutical technician, or a cashier, everyone should watch for problems and bring them up.

Taking these steps, you can ensure your patients are getting the information they need for their medication and other pharmaceutical products. This will help to keep them safe and healthy. In addition, of course, it will help to provide protection against dissatisfied customers or even lawsuits that could come from errors on pharmaceutical labeling.

The Future of Pharmaceutical Labeling

While there have been a lot of standards put in place surrounding pharmaceutical labeling, it would be a mistake to assume that things will remain static going forward. In addition to constantly updating the information put on these labels based on new information, technology is also being incorporated into this (and all) types of labeling.

Some things that are gaining traction today, or may be soon found on these labels in the future, include:

• QR Codes – QR codes can be scanned by smartphones to bring people to websites. They can be quite small, which makes them an efficient use of space on labels. Placing QR codes on pharmaceutical labels can be a great way to link patients to additional information about the medications or medical products they are using.
• Smart Packaging - Smart packaging is a technology that allows pharmaceutical companies to embed electronic sensors into their product packaging. These sensors can track a variety of data, including temperature, humidity, and light exposure, helping to ensure that medications are stored and transported under optimal conditions. Smart packaging can also be used to provide patients with reminders to take their medication or alerts when it's time to refill their prescription.
• Electronic Labels - Electronic labels, or eLabels, are a digital alternative to traditional paper labels. These labels can be accessed via a mobile device or other digital platform, providing patients with up-to-date information about their medications. ELabels can also be customized to display information in different languages or to meet the specific needs of individual patients.

Keep in mind that not all advancements or trends will be adopted. It is important to make sure that you are following all regulatory requirements for your labels and not just jump to the latest new advancements. While many of them will be helpful, your first responsibility is to the safety of your patients.

Additional Opportunities on Labels

Pharmaceutical labeling not only serves as an essential communication tool for providing information to patients about their medications but also as a platform for marketing and branding. The label is the primary point of contact between the patient and the medication, making it an important marketing tool.

Pharmaceutical companies use labeling to differentiate their products from those of their competitors. A well-designed label can help a product stand out on the shelf and catch the attention of consumers. Companies often invest significant resources into creating a unique and recognizable brand identity that can be reflected in their labeling.

The use of color, font, and graphics on pharmaceutical labels can help create a strong visual identity that is easily recognizable to patients. Companies may also use labeling to promote their products through the use of slogans, logos, and taglines that communicate the benefits of their medications.

In addition to creating a unique brand identity, labeling can also be used to build trust with patients. Companies may include information on the label that highlights their commitment to quality and safety, such as "FDA Approved" or "Manufactured in an FDA-approved facility."

Whenever using these labels as part of your branding or marketing strategy, just make sure that it does not cause confusion to your patients or violate any regulations.

How to Create Custom Pharmaceutical Labeling

Industrial label printers play a critical role in the pharmaceutical labeling process. These printers are designed to create high-quality, durable labels that can withstand the rigors of the drug manufacturing and distribution process. They can print labels in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors, and can accommodate different types of label materials, such as paper, polyester, and polypropylene.

Industrial label printers can be used to print a range of different types of labels for pharmaceutical products, including primary container labels, secondary packaging labels, and product inserts. Primary container labels are affixed directly to the drug container, such as a bottle or vial. Secondary packaging labels are affixed to the outer packaging, such as a box or carton. Product inserts are included inside the packaging and provide additional information about the drug, such as patient education materials or instructions for use.

Industrial label printers use a range of printing technologies, including thermal transfer, direct thermal, and inkjet printing. Thermal transfer printing is a common method used in pharmaceutical labeling, as it produces high-quality, durable labels that can withstand exposure to heat, light, and moisture. This method uses a thermal transfer ribbon to transfer ink onto the label material, creating a permanent image. Direct thermal printing is another method that is sometimes used, especially for short-term labeling applications.

This method uses heat-sensitive label material that turns black when exposed to heat, creating an image without the need for ink. Inkjet printing is a newer technology that is gaining popularity in pharmaceutical labeling, as it allows for high-quality, full-color printing on a range of label materials.

Proper Pharmaceutical Labeling is Important for Everyone

Pharmaceutical labeling is a critical aspect of the drug manufacturing process. It involves the creation of labels that provide important information about the drug, including its name, strength, dosage, and instructions for use. Pharmaceutical labeling is subject to regulatory requirements and industry standards, which help to ensure that labeling is accurate, consistent, and provides the necessary information to healthcare providers and patients.

Industrial label printers play a critical role in the pharmaceutical labeling process, providing high-quality, durable labels that can withstand the rigors of the drug manufacturing and distribution process. By understanding the standards, requirements, and technologies involved in pharmaceutical labeling, manufacturers can ensure that their products are safe, effective, and compliant with regulatory requirements.