Vial vs. Ampoule: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 27, 2023
A vial is a small bottle typically used for storing liquids, whereas an ampoule is a sealed glass or plastic bulb containing a dose of medication or a sample, usually meant to be broken open for use.
Key Differences
Vials are small containers made of glass or plastic used for holding liquid or powdered medications, samples, or chemicals. Ampoules, however, are typically small glass or plastic vessels, hermetically sealed to contain a sterile pharmaceutical liquid or a sample.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
The design of a vial usually includes a screw cap or a stopper, making it reusable and suitable for multiple uses. In contrast, ampoules are designed for single use; they are sealed and need to be broken to access the contents, ensuring sterility and preventing contamination.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Vials can vary in size but are generally larger than ampoules, accommodating more content. Ampoules are often used for precise, single-dose applications, particularly in medical and scientific settings, ensuring an exact dosage.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
In terms of material, vials can be made from a variety of materials, including glass and plastic, offering flexibility in usage. Ampoules are primarily made of glass for their ability to maintain sterility and integrity of the contained substance.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Comparison Chart
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Vial and Ampoule Definitions
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Vial
Often used in laboratories.
The vial contained a critical sample for testing.
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Dec 27, 2023
Ampoule
Used for sterile substances.
The ampoule preserved the sterility of the contents.
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Dec 27, 2023
Ampoule
Contains a single dose.
The nurse broke the ampoule for the injection.
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Dec 27, 2023
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Vial
Used for storing medications.
The nurse prepared the medication in a vial.
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Dec 27, 2023
Ampoule
Breakable to access contents.
He carefully broke the ampoule at its neck.
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Dec 27, 2023
Vial
Can be sealed with a stopper.
He sealed the sample in the vial securely.
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Dec 27, 2023
Ampoule
Common in medical settings.
Ampoules ensure precise dosage for patients.
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Dec 27, 2023
Vial
A small container, usually with a closure, used especially for liquids.
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Oct 19, 2023
Ampoule
A hermetically sealed vial made of glass or plastic that contains a sterile medicinal solution or a powder that is usually made into a solution for subcutaneous, intramuscular, or intravenous injection.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Ampoule
A small hermetically sealed vial, often used to contain a sterile solution suitable for injection.
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Oct 19, 2023
Vial
A glass vessel or bottle, especially a small tube-shaped bottle used to store medicine, perfume or other chemicals.
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Oct 19, 2023
Ampoule
A small bottle that contains a drug (especially a sealed sterile container for injection by needle)
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Vial
A small bottle, usually of glass; a little glass vessel with a narrow aperture intended to be closed with a stopper; as, a vial of medicine.
Take thou this vial, being then in bed,And this distilled liquor drink thou off.
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Vial
A small bottle that contains a drug (especially a sealed sterile container for injection by needle)
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Oct 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Do ampoules protect against contamination?
Yes, their sealed design prevents contamination.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
What materials are ampoules made from?
Mostly glass for maintaining sterility.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Are vials only used in laboratories?
No, they're also used in medical settings.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
What sizes do vials come in?
They vary, but generally are larger than ampoules.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Are vials safe for storing chemicals?
Yes, they're commonly used for chemical storage.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Can ampoules be recycled?
They should be disposed of properly, usually not recycled.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Why are ampoules preferred for some medications?
For precise dosing and maintaining sterility.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Are vials used for injections?
Yes, especially for storing injectable medications.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
Shumaila Saeed
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