Phillips Medisize expands inhalation drug delivery capabilities through acquisition of Vectura

Molex, a connectivity solutions provider headquartered in Lisle, Illinois, announced in a press release dated September 17, 2024 that Phillips Medisize, which Molex acquired in 2016, has entered into an agreement to acquire Vectura Group Limited, a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) specializing in the development and formulation of inhalation drug devices based in Chippenham, UK, which is part of Vectura Fertin Pharma, itself a subsidiary of Philip Morris International (1).

In addition to providing pharmaceutical analysis, process development, technical transfer, clinical trial supplies and regulatory services, Vectura's inhalation expertise also includes formulation and device development for dry powder inhalers, pressurized metered dose inhalers and nasal and nebulizer products for small molecules as well as biologics, complex combinations and generics, according to the press release (1). Phillips Medisize, in turn, employs more than 6,000 people who communicate with customers at 29 locations in North America, Europe and Asia, and whose connection to Molex provides access to a wealth of specialty electronics and fiber optic applications.

“The acquisition of Vectura is the latest step in building an industry-leading capability in the medical space. It also demonstrates Molex's commitment to seizing opportunities to better meet market needs across our portfolio,” Molex CEO Joe Nelligan said in the press release. “We are excited about the significant growth potential that comes with a broader range of formulations, device design, combined product development and manufacturing services to meet the increasing need for inhalation therapies. We look forward to welcoming the Vectura team, which brings an excellent reputation for inhalation expertise and experience.”

The parties expect the acquisition to be completed by the end of 2024, subject to regulatory approvals and other closing conditions (1).

“Combining the strengths of Phillips Medisize and Vectura will enhance our ability to offer our pharmaceutical customers a broader portfolio of inhaler combination devices and solutions and support our mission to help people live healthier, more productive lives,” said Paul Chaffin, president of Phillips Medisize, in the press release. “With our global reach, manufacturing scale and technical expertise, Phillips Medisize is uniquely positioned to help Vectura develop innovative new products for their customers that will ultimately benefit people suffering from chronic and acute diseases such as asthma and COPD. [chronic obstructive pulmonary disease].”

Inhalation dosage form formulation is a topic that will be covered at the upcoming AAPS PharmSci 360 2024, which will be held October 20-23, 2024, in Salt Lake City, Utah (2). Pharmaceutical Technology® recently met with Vivek Gupta, PhD, associate dean for graduate education and research and associate professor of pharmaceutical sciences at St. John's University, to discuss the challenges of formulating such products. A video and partial transcript are available here.

References

1. Phillips Medisize. Molex, a parent company of Phillips Medisize, announces an agreement to acquire Vectura Group Limited, expanding its inhalation drug delivery capabilities. Press release. September 17, 2024.
2. Haigney, S. AAPS PharmSci 360 2024: Inhaled Drug Development. PharmTech.com21August 2024.