Bespak, an inhalation contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), and OzUK, a contract research organization (CRO) focusing on pressurized Metered Dose Inhaler (pMDI) advancement, have announced new enhancements to bolster their joint service offerings in early-phase product feasibility and development. This move follows OzUK’s recent introduction of its ATEX-rated pilot plant, dedicated to advancing low Global Warming Potential (GWP) pMDI products. This facility complies with ATEX (Atmosphères Explosibles) standards, facilitating the production of both solution and suspension batches at a pilot scale. Utilizing HFA-152a, a low GWP propellant, ensures compatibility with larger-scale production, thereby easing the transition to full manufacturing at customer facilities or Bespak’s Holmes Chapel location.
Furthermore, OzUK boasts an established independent laboratory for initial formulation and component assessment, formulation feasibility, and product advancement. Through their alliance with Bespak, OzUK can extend its development services: transitioning from early-stage development at OzUK’s lab and pilot processes to Bespak’s new HFA-152a GMP filling line at the Holmes Chapel site for clinical supply. This collaboration offers a streamlined, adaptable pathway for pMDI developers, ensuring speed and safety without compromising regulatory adherence.
Bespak is enhancing its leadership in the shift to low GWP propellants through partnerships with industry experts like OzUK and its in-house resources in Holmes Chapel and King’s Lynn in the UK. Concurrently, OzUK continues to build on its proven expertise in initial pMDI formulation and development from its expanding Chippenham, UK, facility. The combined efforts ensure continuity of Bespak’s services—from initial feasibility to commercial supply—even after the decision to close its North Carolina, US, facility this year.
To deliver seamless services, specialists from both firms will collaborate closely, leveraging OzUK’s proficiency in pMDI formulation and Bespak’s scale-up and commercial skills. Their joint research teams are actively working on advancing low GWP formulation knowledge, with results slated for presentation in 2025.
Chris Hirst, CEO of Bespak, expressed excitement over partnering with OzUK, highlighting how their collective expertise fortifies the development path for low GWP pMDIs and consolidates manufacturing excellence within the UK.
Similarly, Robert Johnson, OzUK’s COO, emphasized the partnership as a driver for agile low GWP pMDI transitions in the UK. He praised the combined service offering that extends from initial development to commercial supply as an optimal solution for eco-friendly inhaler advancements.
Bespak focuses globally on inhaled and nasal drug delivery devices as a CDMO, developing and manufacturing pharmaceutical products and drug delivery devices.
Oz-UK specializes in pressurized metered dose inhaler and liquid aerosol R&D, offering comprehensive solutions from early-phase discovery through to scale-up.