Ampulle

An ampulle, also spelled ampoule or ampule, is a small, sealed container used to hold a sterile liquid for injection or laboratory use. It is typically made of glass, but can also be produced from certain plastics. Ampoules are designed for single-use; after the neck is broken to access the contents, the remainder is discarded, helping to maintain sterility until opening.

Most ampoules are made from borosilicate glass and may be colorless or amber to shield light-sensitive contents. They come in small volumes, often from a few tenths to several milliliters. The contents are sterilized before filling, and the ampoule is sealed during manufacturing. Opening is usually accomplished by snapping off the narrow neck along a pre-scored weakest point; the interior is then accessed with a sterile syringe or pipette.

Uses of ampoules include injectable medicines, vaccines, and serums, as well as laboratory reagents and diagnostic preparations. They are common in pharmaceutical and clinical settings, where strict aseptic technique is required. Many regulations emphasize that broken or opened ampoules must be discarded or handled as hazardous waste, and reuse is generally prohibited to prevent contamination.

Handling and storage guidelines typically advise keeping ampoules in their original packaging until use, storing under appropriate temperature conditions, and protecting contents from light if advised by the manufacturer. After opening, contents should be used immediately if possible. Discard any portion left inside the ampoule after access to the contents has been made, and dispose of the container according to local waste and safety regulations.

Etymology traces the term to the French ampoule, from Latin ampulla, meaning a flask or bottle. Variants and regional spellings include ampule and ampoule in different languages.