Evonik, a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) for complex parenterals, is strengthening its platform of parenteral drug delivery solutions with three new standard PLA-PEG di-block copolymers and a new nanoparticle formulation service using sonication technology. The copolymers (RESOMER RP d) are especially suited to nanoparticle formation and can be used in a wide range of parenteral drug delivery applications including controlled and sustained release drug products. Nanosonication is a new process developed by Evonik to overcome process challenges and enable cGMP production of nanoparticles for drug delivery, for which RESOMER RP d polymers are well suited.

Nanomedicine offers a toolbox to address specific needs related to increasing the therapeutic effects of drugs, and includes polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, lipid nanoparticles, micelles, nano-emulsions, nanotubes, and nanofibers. Nanomedicine can be used to overcome different hurdles such as drug solubilization, API targeting, protection of APIs from degradation, and API transport across biological barriers. The technology builds on the company’s experience with formulating polymeric microparticles, liposomes, lipid nanoparticles and micelles.

Evonik’s new offering of poly(DL-lactide) (PLA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) di-block copolymers are used for controlled release applications and feature different molecular weight fractions. By adjusting the molecular weight of the mPEG (methoxy-PEG) and PLA blocks, the excipient attributes and formulation properties can be modified. As with all RESOMER polymers, customization to include other monomers, molecular weights and weight-fractions is also possible.

“We are delighted to increase our nanomedicine offerings and continue to meet the growing market demand for nano-pharmaceuticals,” said Paul Spencer, head of drug delivery & products at Evonik’s Health Care business.