Abstract: An apparatus for filling drug containers such as syringes, and related filling methods, are disclosed. The apparatus uses a removable pumping syringe mounted to the apparatus and located intermediate between the bulk source of drug and the container (e.g. syringe) to be filled such that the drug is first pumped into the pumping syringe and then pumped into the container (e.g. syringe). Actuation of the intermediate pumping syringe is effected with a linear actuator such as a step motor which is engaged to the plunger of the pumping syringe. The linear actuator is controlled by a controller which typically allows different filling and calibrating procedures.