A novel child-resistant closure by SnapSlide was the only product honoured in the Drug & Pharmaceutical category of the 2024 AmeriStar Awards presented by the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP).
The patented solution – also called SnapSlide – is a no-torque closure that allows single-handed opening and closing, while maintaining child resistance criteria.
The innovation is designed to replace conventional push-and-turn mechanics, making medication more accessible, safer, and easier to use independently, claims the US company behind it. It is also said to use 25 per cent less plastics than conventional Rx packages, with 30 per cent greater efficiency in shipping and distribution.
More than 60 million Americans suffer from some form of dexterity issue, including arthritis, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease. Of these, an estimated 12 million are temporarily or permanently unable to use one of their arms or hands. These include amputees, stroke/paralysis patients, and many faced with congenital birth defects, for whom conventional pharmaceutical closures are virtually impossible to open, dose, and close with one arm.
According to the company, nearly 90 per cent of consumers in focus groups preferred SnapSlide to conventional amber vial closures.
“Our commitment to inclusive design not only enhances user experience but also promotes medication adherence, benefiting everyone,” said Rocky Batzel, inventor and chief executive of SnapSlide.
