Irreversible holographic effect offers reliable first-opening indication and tamper evidence, complying with EU Falsified Medicines Directive

Blauvelt, N.Y. – Schreiner MediPharm, a Germany-based global provider of specialty pharmaceutical labeling solutions for over 65 years, has developed a multifunctional Covert-Hologram Seal that offers reliable first-opening indication and tamper evidence, plus counterfeiting protection. The seal, which features an irreversible, holographic effect, complies with the Falsified Medicines Directive 2011/62/EU that will be enforced beginning February 2019. The Directive requires all pharmaceutical manufacturers to mark their prescription medicine packaging with a serial number and additional tamper protection device.

The innovative Covert-Hologram Seal presents as a simple packaging seal that is transparent and inconspicuous. The first time the seal is opened, however, a hologram emerges that shows various inscriptions and design elements in different colors, depending on the viewing angle. As the holographic effect is irreversible, the seal’s fully transparent original condition cannot be restored. This enables manufacturers, suppliers, and patients to determine at a glance whether the medicine is an originally packaged product that has not been opened previously.

Covert anti-counterfeiting features embedded in the specialty closure seal add extra security. By combining the reliable first-opening indication required by the EU Directive with additional counterfeiting protection in a single seal, the Covert-Hologram Seal helps enhance security throughout the supply chain.

The closed Covert-Hologram Seal appears nearly inconspicuous (left); the irreversible holographic effect only emerges when the seal is opened. (right).