The invention relates to an apparatus (10) by means of which pharmaceutical products (1) in the form of tablets, hard gelatin capsules or the like are retained, and positioned, in a packaging installation (100), having a carrier element (11) which has a multiplicity of format-dependent holders (27) for the products (1), wherein the carrier element (11) can be fastened, preferably in an interchangeable manner, on a conveying apparatus (12) of the packaging installation (100). According to the invention, it is provided that there is a retaining element (30) in operative connection with the carrier element (11), the retaining element having, for each product (1), a respective clamping element (32) in alignment with the respective holder (27), and that the retaining element (30) is arranged for movement between two positions in relation to the carrier element (11) such that, in a first position, in order for the products (1) to be introduced into the holders (27) and/or discharged therefrom, the clamping elements (32) are not in contact with the products (1), and that, in a second position, the clamping elements (32) fix the products (1) in the holders (27).