Temperature control is not a side issue in radiopharmaceuticals
Temperature fluctuations are one of the biggest – and often underestimated – risks in the transport of radiopharmaceuticals. Even a small deviation in temperature during transit can lead to quality loss or even product failure, resulting in delayed patient treatment. That is why temperature control during nuclear transportation is not an additional option, but a critical condition for safe and reliable delivery.
If the temperature limits are exceeded, the shipment may no longer meet regulatory or quality requirements, and a replacement delivery must be arranged. This not only disrupts the logistics process but can also cause delays that ultimately lead to postponed patient treatments.
Safely and compliantly transporting radiopharmaceutical products requires precise alignment between product characteristics, logistical requirements, and regulations. In a previous blog, we explained the complex considerations we take into account to determine the right packaging solution that meets all requirements. In many cases, the right packaging is not only about radiation safety and physical protection; temperature retention can also be crucial.
What makes temperature-controlled packaging essential?
Radiopharmaceuticals are often thermally sensitive; temperature deviations can affect product quality and efficacy. This primarily impacts patient safety, but can also result in additional costs and put the supplier’s reputation and regulatory compliance at risk.
Reliable temperature control during transport is essential when:
- Products are temperature-sensitive and may lose quality if exposed to fluctuating temperatures.
- Transport routes expose products to external temperatures.
- Certification or records of temperature monitoring are required.
Von Gahlen’s temperature-controlled Type A packaging
To manage the risk of medicine quality failure, Von Gahlen develops specialized Type A packaging with integrated temperature control, such as our single-use temperature-controlled packaging.
This temperature-controlled solution is suitable for road and air transport, features a weather-resistant outer box with a secure lid and handles. It includes lead radiation shielding, insulating foam components, and cooling elements, making it a flexible, complete solution for radiopharmaceuticals.
This design ensures stable internal temperature control during transport. Data logger and GPS tracking integration can additionally enable continuous monitoring and full traceability.
Another example of our Type A packaging with temperature control is our Type A Modular Dry Ice packaging. This option can transport sensitive radiopharmaceuticals at very low temperatures. Dry ice ensures reliable temperature retention. This solution is also suitable for both road and air transport, and is designed for the safe transport of temperature-sensitive radiopharmaceuticals at extremely low temperatures. It uses high-quality insulation materials in combination with dry ice to ensure long-lasting temperature control and reliable temperature retention throughout the transport process.
A process-driven approach
At Von Gahlen, we believe that reliable transport starts with the right design. Our approach does not begin with a standard product, but with your logistical reality. Together with your team, we analyze the specific product characteristics and logistical requirements that ensure safe and compliant transport.
Based on this, we advise on the most suitable packaging solution, explicitly considering factors such as temperature management and transport duration. We then carry out the complete design and validation process in-house, ensuring that the final packaging solution demonstrably complies with applicable international standards and regulations.
Our packaging solutions are thoroughly tested and certified. We remove complexity, reduce supply chain risks, and ensure your radiopharmaceutical products reach their destination safely and efficiently.
Curious how we determine the right solution for your challenge? Read more in our blog.
Years of experience in nuclear transport
Do your radiopharmaceuticals require temperature control during transport from your facility to the destination? Temperature-controlled packaging is a specialized discipline within radiopharmaceutical logistics, and one where knowledge, experience, and advice make the difference.
At Von Gahlen, we combine decades of experience in nuclear transport with a customer-focused approach. We offer a range of Type A packaging solutions with temperature-controlled varying profiles.
Contact our team today for tailored advice or a technical discussion about temperature-controlled transport: vgrp@vongahlen.com.
