Common Errors in Pharmaceutical Labeling – Artwork Flow
Introduction
Pharmaceutical labeling plays a pivotal role in the industry, ensuring vital information reaches patients safely and accurately. However, errors in pharmaceutical labeling have been the cause of numerous global headlines and product recalls. To maintain patient safety and comply with stringent regulations, pharmaceutical companies must prioritize accurate and error-free labeling.
In this article, we delve into five common errors in pharmaceutical labeling and provide insights into avoiding them.
1. Compliance Risks
Pharmaceutical brands operate under constant regulatory scrutiny. It’s imperative they adhere to safety regulations for all their products. Local regulations can be intricate, and brands must be well-versed in these requirements. Failure to accurately review artwork during the approval process can lead to compliance risks and errors in packaging.
2. Incorrect Information
Inaccurate pharmaceutical labels can jeopardize patient safety and harm a manufacturer’s reputation. For instance, a dosage error led Endo Pharmaceuticals in Ireland to recall a batch of tablets, while a labeling mistake caused Julphar Gulf Pharmaceutical Industries in the UAE to recall a product. Such recalls are costly and damaging.
3. Quality Issues
Quality issues can pervade the artwork development and proofing process, resulting in inconsistencies in product packaging. While not severe enough to trigger recalls, these problems can affect branding. Common quality issues include misplaced or distorted graphics, inconsistent colors, and fonts.
4. Translation Errors
In an industry with tight timelines and global distribution, translation errors can impede product launches. Professional translators play a critical role in proofing translated labels, as errors in language can render the content unclear, causing delays.
5. Improper Inspection
Manual proofing of pharmaceutical labeling is time-consuming, especially for complex projects involving multiple teams across different locations. Orchestrating these activities and integrating processes can lead to inefficiencies.
Preventing Errors in Pharmaceutical Labeling
Preventing errors in pharmaceutical labeling is essential to maintain product integrity and reputation. Here are some strategies to consider:
Use Labeling Software: Invest in pharmaceutical artwork and label design software with annotation and commenting features for streamlined feedback from collaborators.
Create Checklists: Develop checklists for your teams to systematically review labels, ensuring no requirements are overlooked.
Implement Proofing Tools: Leverage tools such as font finders, color extractors, and PDF comparisons to review files accurately.
Utilize Cloud Storage: Store and share the latest label files with teams anywhere using cloud storage solutions.
Conclusion The pharmaceutical industry’s stringent nature demands rigorous attention to labeling accuracy. Surprisingly, over 50% of product recalls result from labeling errors. Pharmaceutical brands must adopt effective processes and tools to mitigate these errors. Artwork Flow offers a solution by simplifying the review process, aiding pharmaceutical companies in achieving error-free labeling and maintaining their commitment to patient safety.