Pharmaceutical Glass Vials: Types and Applications

Glass vials are a trusted primary packaging solution for injectables, vaccines, and freeze-dried drugs. They offer excellent chemical stability, clarity, and compatibility with sensitive pharmaceutical formulations. Most pharmaceutical vials are made from tubular or molded glass, and classified as Type I, II, or III based on their chemical resistance.

Tubular vs. Molded Glass Vials

• Tubular glass vials are made from glass tubes. They are lightweight, precise in shape, and ideal for high-speed filling lines and biologics.

• Molded glass vials are produced by molding molten glass. They are more robust, suitable for large-volume liquids and powders, often used in generics and infusions.

Glass Types: Type I, II, III

• Type I (Borosilicate Glass):
  Best chemical resistance. Suitable for all injectables, especially biologics and lyophilized products.

• Type II (Treated Soda-Lime Glass):
  Treated to resist chemicals. Used for buffered solutions and less sensitive injectables.

• Type III (Soda-Lime Glass):
  Basic glass type. Acceptable for dry formulations and non-aqueous products. Not ideal for injectables.

Why Quality Matters

The right vial type ensures drug stability, patient safety, and regulatory compliance. Poor-quality glass can cause delamination, contamination, or leachables.

At APEXVIA, we offer high-quality Type I tubular and molded vials, compliant with GMP, USP, EP, and FDA standards. Our products support aseptic filling, lyophilization, and global distribution.

Conclusion

Choosing the correct vial type and glass grade is critical in pharmaceutical packaging. Whether for injectables, vaccines, or powdered drugs, APEXVIA provides reliable, customizable glass vial solutions that meet international standards.