Which type of medication container lacks preservatives?

The correct choice is the single-dose vial because it is specifically designed to contain a single, sterile dose of medication, which is intended for immediate use. Since this vial is not intended to be accessed multiple times, it does not require preservatives, which are typically used in multi-dose containers to prevent microbial contamination and degradation over time. The single-dose vial helps ensure that the medication remains uncontaminated and effective at the time of administration.

In contrast, multiple-use vials are formulated with preservatives to allow for repeated access to the medication without compromising its sterility. Mix-O-Vial and ADD-A-VIAL also contain preservatives because they are designed for multiple uses or for mixing with solvents, again necessitating protection against contamination. The choice of a single-dose vial enhances safety and efficacy for patients receiving medication in a clinical setting by eliminating the risk associated with preservatives and maintaining the medication’s integrity until it is administered.