Impact of temperature fluctuation on medicines

Pharmaceuticals are in a state of continuous development, where breakthrough treatments and life-saving medicines are the norm, and the management of the pharmaceutical cold chain emerges as a matter of great importance.

Temperature has a great impact on the outcome of medicines. Newly developed treatments, each with unique requirements, demand meticulous attention. Some molecules thrive only in low temperatures, making adherence to stringent cold chain protocols imperative. Deviations from these prescribed temperatures can induce molecular changes, potentially jeopardising the effectiveness and safety of medications.

Consider the consequences of molecular changes in specific medications:

Antibiotics: Risk of stomach or kidney damage if decay occurs.

Aspirin: Increased risk of an upset stomach.

Hydrocortisone Cream: Ineffectiveness due to separation in heat.

Diagnostic Test Strips: Susceptibility to temperature changes affecting diagnostic properties.

Insulin, Seizure Medicines, and Anticoagulants: Even small dosage changes can significantly impact health.

For refrigerated products, maintaining a chilled environment between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius is essential. Mercatus Bioscience's highly advanced refrigeration devices, a part of their comprehensive cold chain solutions, ensure this optimal temperature range. This is particularly crucial for products that demand cooling without freezing, such as vaccines, medication, and prescriptions.

The advancement of science has meant pharmaceutical supply chains need to cater to complexities. Temperature-sensitive products, including biologics, are transported around the globe, necessitating reliable cold chain logistics solutions. Regulatory bodies, such as the FDA and EMA, respond to this complexity by establishing Good Distribution Practices (GDP), ensuring the viability and safety of medicines throughout the supply chain.