Monodose

Monodose refers to a packaging or presentation of a product designed for a single administration. In pharmaceutical contexts, monodose or unit-dose formats are premeasured, sterile presentations used for one patient or one treatment event. Common forms include prefilled syringes, single-use ampoules or vials, sachets, and applicators that are opened and discarded after use. A unit-dose vial contrasts with multidose vials that contain preservatives and allow multiple withdrawals.

The primary aim of monodose packaging is to provide an accurate, ready-to-use dose while reducing the risk of contamination and dosing errors. This format can simplify dispensing and administration in hospitals, clinics, and home-care settings, improving traceability and inventory control. It also minimizes the opportunity for cross-contamination between patients and can enhance infection control in sterile or parenteral therapies.

Limitations of monodose formats include higher production and packaging costs, which can affect overall treatment expense. They may generate more packaging waste compared with reusable or multidose formats. Some drugs have stability or compatibility constraints that make unit-dose packaging impractical. In addition, unit-dose systems require appropriate supply chain, storage, and disposal practices to maintain integrity and safety.

Overall, monodose packaging is widely used for medications and sterile solutions where dose accuracy, safety, and infection control are priorities, with adoption varying by country, regimen, and healthcare setting.