SK Bioscience said Friday that it has put to market a prefilled syringe version of Skyzoster, the first domestically developed shingles vaccine.

The new prefilled syringe version of Skyzoster removes the hassle of existing vial formulations that mix injectable water with freeze-dried vaccine and then transferring it back to the syringe.

The prefilled syringe provides the syringe with water needed for injection, which in turn can reduce a step compared to conventional vial formulations. The new version of Skyzoster also features two features in the syringe's appearance to increase vaccination safety.

The company installed a plastic protector called back-stop to the syringe handle to make the smaller syringes easier to hold while preventing the syringe from being dislodged when inoculating. SK Bioscience also introduced a lure-lock system that locks the needle to the syringe to prevent accidental opening.

Prefilled syringe formulation is currently a big hit worldwide due to its high convenience compared to conventional ampoules and vial formulations, precise dosing, and prevention of contamination that can occur during injection preparation.

SK Bioscience plans to expand its market share for shingles vaccine by providing the convenience of administration and safety of vaccination to the medical staff through the change of the dosage form.

“We will upgrade our products with constant R&D to compete with global competitors,” SK Bioscience CEO Ahn Jae-yong said.