USP <660> - testing glass containers for their chemical stability

The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) enforces rigorous testing requirements for containers and their closure system as they must not interact physically or chemically with the substance in any way that would alter its quality.

The General Chapter <660> outlines specific qualification tests based on the type of glass used for containers that come into direct contact with the pharmaceutical formulation. The quality of the glass containers is defined by measuring their hydrolytic resistance, or resistance to chemical attacks.

To learn more about testing and conforming to the regulation, complete the form and download our free guide.

This article explores the requirements and regulations for pharmaceutical glass containers as well as the testing involved, including:

• The glass types
• The Glass Grains Test
• The Surface Glass Test
• The Surface Etching Test
• The requirements and regulation