Dowpharma Signs Agreement for Drug Solubilization Feasibility Studies with Bristol-Myers Squibb

21-Apr-2004

Dowpharma will apply advanced particle engineering technologies designed to deliver solubilization benefits to drug compounds from Bristol-Myers Squibb Company under an agreement.

The ability to dissolve faster in the body can make certain drugs more effective. Studies conducted under the agreement will determine if BioAqueousSM solubilization services, part of Dowpharma's service portfolio, can favorably impact performance of the candidate compounds. The agreement funds feasibility studies and includes provisions for milestone and royalty payments to Dowpharma based on successful progression of the compounds toward regulatory approval and commercialization. Neither financial details of the agreement nor the identity of the compounds is being disclosed.

Dowpharma is targeting pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical developers who want to improve performance of poorly soluble drug compounds. "BioAqueous solubilization services are receiving wide interest among pharmaceutical companies," said Nick Hyde, business director, Dowpharma. "Companies know they can turn a challenging drug compound into a real win if solubilization difficulties can be overcome. Now, when off-the-shelf remedies don't work, BioAqueous services offer them more alternatives in the form of advanced, customized solubilization solutions."

"Advanced solubilization technologies can potentially enhance both ongoing drug candidate development and the value of drugs currently on the market," said Ronald L. Smith, Ph.D., Executive Director of Exploratory Biopharmaceutical Research and Stability for Bristol-Myers Squibb's Pharmaceutical Research Institute. "This agreement expands our portfolio of options to apply technology solutions to address drug solubilization challenges."

Technologies developed by Dow show the ability to alter particle size, surface area, or morphology to create nanostructured particles that can improve a drug's ability to dissolve in the body. Based on the specific challenges of a particular drug compound, an initial feasibility study employs Dow's portfolio of advanced particle engineering technologies to develop customized solutions to meet the desired performance objectives of the compound. Beyond a feasibility study, BioAqueous solubilization services include support through all stages of development, optimization, and production of clinical supplies

https://www.chemeurope.com/en/news/36786/dowpharma-signs-agreement-for-drug-solubilization-feasibility-studies-with-bristol-myers-squibb.html