Keystone Folding Box Co. (keyboxco.com) has launched Ecoslide-OTC, a child-resistant paperboard pack for over-the-counter medication packaged in blisters. The innovative, eco-friendly solution features a push-button locking mechanism that provides child-resistance while eliminating the need for the more traditional, two-step “peel/push-through foil” that many consumers find difficult to open.

The Ecoslide-OTC reclosable locking mechanism is identical to a newly-enhanced, easier-to-activate version found on the company’s new Ecoslide-RX 3.0 package. Ecoslide-RX, which has consistently achieved the highest child resistance rating (F=1) through multiple tests and gained widespread consumer acceptance, is used to package both clinical trial material and commercial prescription products.  Similarly, Ecoslide-OTC’s simple push-button reclosable locking mechanism addresses long-standing consumer complaints about the intricate, often cumbersome removal process required by most over-the-counter, “peel and push” child-resistant blister packs.  

Ecoslide-OTC has been identified in consumer research as both conveniently sized and easy to open – benefits further enhanced by the increased area to print information or illustrations (when compared to similar-sized bottles). In developing Ecoslide OTC, Keystone Folding Box Co. worked closely with prominent contract packagers, who are now reporting growing requests from major retail chains for new and innovative approaches to child-resistant OTC packaging.

True to its name, Ecoslide-OTC is made from 100% recyclable paperboard.  It is easily separated from its internal blister for recycling; the blister is disposed of, but contains only a fraction of disposable plastic when compared to bottles. The challenge with recycling traditional prescription medicine bottles is that most curbside programs do not accept them.  According the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR), prescription bottles smaller than 3 inches in all directions will not be recycled, and ultimately become landfill waste.

“With Ecoslide OTC, our goal is to provide an enhanced consumer experience within the child-resistant/senior-friendly space,” says Ward Smith, director of marketing & business development at Keystone Folding Box Co.  “When you think about this market, the solutions currently on the shelves have remained basically unchanged for over 40 years. Millenials are continuously seeking attractive, alternative, eco-friendly packaging, while the growing senior population is looking for solutions that are easier to open.  Ecoslide-OTC addresses all of these challenges.”