Child-Resistant Packaging for Medication

The Poison Prevention Packaging Act of 1970 became effective on December 30, 1970, and its provisions and the enforcement efforts of the regulatory agencies charged with administering the Act have caused great consternation among both laymen and health professionals. An understanding of the social policy reflected by this legislation as well as the standards which have been promulgated for child-resistant packaging may go far to ameliorate the frustrations of those who have to deal with the requirements of the Act on a daily basis. A discussion of the historical evolution of the 1970 Act and the controversy surrounding it is followed by a review of the standards for child-resistant packaging and exemptions from the requirements of the Act. A discussion of physician and patient waivers focuses on the desirability of documentation. The role of the Act in a professional liability suit is anticipated. A list of the drugs which are currently under consideration for exemption is provided. A better understanding of this legislation should enable health professionals to better deal with their patients.