Vials and bottles led compound pharma packaging in 2024

The compound pharmacy packaging market is undergoing rapid growth, driven by increasing demand for personalised medicines tailored to individual patient needs. These compounded medications require specialised packaging to maintain integrity, ensure accurate dosing and meet regulatory requirements.

In 2024, vials and bottles accounted for the largest share of the global market. These containers are widely used for sterile injectables and oral solutions due to their strong protection against light, moisture and air. Their compatibility with United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and United States Pharmacopoeia (USP) standards further supports their dominance in the sector.

Blister packs are projected to be the fastest-growing packaging segment through to 2034. Their unit-dose format, excellent barrier properties, and tamper-evident design make them ideal for capsules, tablets and troches.

Sterile compounding led the market in 2024, driven by the need for injectable medications in oncology and critical care. Innovations such as dual-chamber syringes and high-barrier films are being adopted to meet sterility and safety standards. Meanwhile, non-sterile compounding is expanding quickly, especially in paediatrics, dermatology and veterinary medicine, covering products such as creams, ointments and capsules.

Plastic remains the most commonly used material due to its low cost and versatility. However, biodegradable materials—such as polylactic acid (PLA) and starch-based polymers—are gaining ground despite current limitations in scale and cost. Eco-friendly solutions, including lightweight packaging and reusable containers, are also being introduced to reduce environmental impact.

Regionally, North America led the market in 2024, supported by over 7,500 compounding pharmacies and a well-established regulatory environment. The Asia-Pacific region is the fastest-growing, driven by ageing populations, rising chronic disease rates, and increased healthcare spending in countries like China, Japan and South Korea. Europe is also seeing notable growth, with demand for tamper-evident, child-resistant, and sustainable packaging formats rising under strict European Union (EU) regulations.

Technological advancements are reshaping the landscape. Smart packaging with quick response (QR) codes, tamper-evident features, temperature indicators and Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity is improving safety and patient adherence. Some systems now send medication reminders via smartphone applications and provide real-time data on temperature and humidity.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is also transforming the packaging process. AI-powered vision systems detect labelling errors and packaging defects, while AI-driven predictive maintenance helps prevent machinery breakdowns. Together with IoT technologies, AI improves quality control, storage monitoring, and patient communication.

The compound pharmacy packaging market is expected to generate hundreds of millions in revenue between 2025 and 2034, supported by continued innovation, sustainability efforts, and increasing personalisation in healthcare.