PR: IL Group delivers tamper-evident labeling solution for Exela Pharma Sciences' prefilled syringe launch

IL Group, a specialist in multifunctional labeling solutions for the pharmaceuticals and healthcare sectors, played a critical role in helping Exela Pharma Sciences - a U.S.-based specialty pharmaceutical company and contract development & manufacturing organization (CDMO) - launch a series of prefilled syringe products requiring tailored tamper-evident solutions. The partnership eliminated a significant hurdle in Exela’s go-to-market timeline, providing a custom-designed label that not only addressed regulatory and safety requirements, but also was seamlessly compatible with the company’s existing production processes.

The challenge arose as Exela prepared to introduce several new products in plastic cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) syringes. These syringes did not include a manufacturer pre-installed tamper evident feature - an essential safety element for regulatory approval and patient assurance. After exploring several domestic supplier options without success, Exela turned to IL Group, one of just a few pharmaceutical labeling manufacturers with global reach offering relevant shrink film label solutions.

Drawing on its portfolio of proprietary shrink label materials and in-house design expertise, IL Group rapidly developed a custom label compatible with Exela’s current labeling operations, avoiding the need for costly and time-consuming equipment modifications. Featuring a tamper-evident seal tailored to the syringe format, the design was delivered on a tight turnaround to help keep the product launch on schedule.

“Our collaboration with IL Group solved a critical packaging challenge in a condensed timeframe,” said Phanesh Koneru, Ph.D., J.D., LL.M., President and CEO of Exela Pharma Sciences. “They provided not just materials, but true design support - something we could not find elsewhere in the U.S. market.”

Since the launches, Exela has been able to meet growing demand for therapies delivered via prefilled syringes - products that require robust safety features to ensure both supply chain security and patient health. The collaboration with IL Group was instrumental in delivering these products to market with the integrated protections today’s healthcare environment demands.

About IL Group

Based in Aichi, Japan IL Group is a total pharmaceutical packaging solution provider. The company provides precision, often customized labeling solutions for global pharmaceutical and healthcare companies. In addition to its advanced pharmaceutical labeling solutions, IL Group provides clinical trial services, contract packaging services, and a series of high-efficiency labeling machines. Its extensive portfolio includes ISO-compliant roll-on and shrink-tack labels featuring value-added benefits such as tamper evidence, protection against breakage, and light-shielding properties, as well as specialty constructions whose functions range from reliable adhesion in cryogenic applications to detachable elements for ease of medical recordkeeping.

IL Group’s US entity, Iwata Label USA, combines elevated Japanese quality standards with a keen sense of North American market needs. In Japan, IL Group holds the predominant share of Japan’s pharmaceutical labeling market. Through its three-pole network in the US, Europe, and Japan, as well as various global partnerships, IL Group is poised for further growth and innovation. For more information, visit http://www.group-il.com/en.

About Exela Pharma Sciences

Exela Pharma Sciences is a specialty pharmaceutical company based in Western North Carolina. Founded in 2005, Exela develops and manufactures both proprietary and generic sterile injectable products designed to meet the evolving needs of healthcare providers, enhance patient care, and help mitigate drug shortages.

Exela operates two distinct business units - Finished Drug Products and Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) - each supported by a highly experienced team and significant cGMP sterile manufacturing capacity. Capabilities span a range of formats, including liquid vials, IV bags, lyophilized vials, and prefilled syringes. With end-to-end services ranging from drug substance development and regulatory filings (New Drug Applications and Abbreviated New Drug Applications) to commercial manufacturing and marketing of finished drugs, Exela serves a diverse customer base - from local hospitals to Fortune 500 pharmaceutical companies. For more information, visit https://exelapharma.com/.