Attaching pharma labels to pre-filled syringes could save hospitals money when compared to using drug vials.
This is according to a new study carried out at the Medical University of South Carolina, whose findings were presented at the 2011 annual meeting of the International Anaesthesia Research Society, Pain Medicine News reports.
The amount of unused drugs in an operating room were compared before medics started using pre-filled syringes and then again after.
It was discovered that the reduction in waste after the change saved the theatre $216 (£80) per day because doctors could put medicines back that they had not opened.
Lead author Christopher Fortier explained: "In that way, you're only using the product you need, when you need it."
Earlier in 2011, experts at Michigan State University suggested that the packaging many pharma labels are attached to needs to be simplified if it is to be more easily understood in emergency situations.
Denny Bros Ltd, 21 October 2011
