Container is a device that holds the drug and it may or may not be in direct contact with the pharmaceutical preparations.
containers are divided into following types on the basis of their utility
1. Well-closed containers: A well-closed container protects the contents from loss during transportation, handling, storage or sale etc.
2. Single dose containers: These containers are used to supply only one dose of medicament and hold generally parenteral products e.g. ampoules and vials.
3. Multi dose containers: These containers allow the withdrawal of dose at various intervals without changing the strength, quality or purity of remaining portion. These containers hold more than one dose. e.g. vials.
4. Light-resistant containers: These containers protect the medicament from harmful effects of light. Used for photo-sensitive medicaments.
5. Air-tight containers: These are also called hermetic containers. These containers have air-tight sealing or closing to protect the products from dust, moisture and air.
6. Aerosol containers : These containers have adequate mechanical strength in order to bear the pressure of aerosol packing