Small volume parenterals include traditional and bioengineered medicines. These medicines are usually packaged in small vials (less than 20 ml), prefilled syringes and ampoules, or they made of lyophilized powder. Many small volume parenterals need aseptic treatment because they lack thermal stability.

More sterility guarantee can be increased if the sterility filtration is used in both parts of the process. Pre-filters should be used to reduce the biological load and particles, which will protect and extend the lifetime of the final filters.