When considered as a material, glass is a collective term for an unlimited` number of materials of different compositions in a glassy state. Glassy materials can also occur naturally. For example, obsidian, often found in volcanic areas, has a composition comparable to man-made glass. It consists of sand, and sodium and calcium compounds; and it was fashioned into knives, arrowheads, spearheads, and other weapons in ancient times. Natural glass in the form of obsidian was in high demand in this region as an object of trade. The Aztecs in Mexico were also familiar with obsidian and created religious and household items from it.

Slowly the usability of glasses increased and people started making them for their specific need.

With the introduction of new elements of the periodic into its conventional chemical composition glass acquired hither to unexpected features which made possible its wider utilization ranging from optical fibers, electrodes, pharmaceuticals, nuclear physics, space research etc.

Glass is still unsurpassed as primary packaging material for pharmaceutical applications. Ever since the end of World War II, man seems to labour under the impression that he has conquered all his problems, particularly those relating to Health and disease. Victory over infections, the foremost killer before antibiotics, made him complacent until new bugs reared their heads. These high tech and sensitive drugs are formulated into finished dosage form by pharmaceutical industry.

Medicines are therefore subject to the special standards of the pharmacist, as well as National, International Standards and GMP(Good Manufacturing Practice) regulations laid down in International law. A continual quality control system means that manufacturers and their products are also included in these standards. As primary containers are in direct contact with the pharmaceutical compound, they are subjected to strict testing, as described in both National and International regulations.

Glass has a number of qualities which make it particularly suitable for use as primary packing for pharmaceutical products. GLASS has had 'specs' laid down bye the most respected of Pharmacopoeias, namely the United States Pharmacopoeia, or USP.

Grades of GLASS have been defined separately for containers for injectables and for non-injected drugs. Needless to say the most stringent 'specs' are for injectables.

Other attributes giving distinct edge to glass as the safest container compared to plastic are: