Polystyrene has been used by dispensing pharmacists for years for containers for solid dosage forms because it is relatively low in cost At present, polystyrene is not useful for The plastic high water vapor transm (in comparison to high-density polyethylene) as well as high oxygen permeability. Depending on the methods of manufacture and other factors, polystyrene containers are easily scratched and often crack when dropped. Polystyrene will build up static charge. Polystyrene has a low melting point and therefore cannot be used for hot items or other high-temperature applications. Polystyrene is resistant to acids, except strong acids, and to alkalies.