Bespak and Orbia Partner to Develop Climate-Friendly Inhalers

Bespak, a leading contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) in inhalation therapies, has partnered with Orbia Advance Corporation’s (BMV: ORBIA*) Fluor & Energy Materials division, known for its expertise in fluoroproducts and sustainable propellant technology, to fast-track the commercialization of low global warming potential (GWP) inhalers. This collaboration leverages Orbia’s Zephex 152a propellant at Bespak’s Holmes Chapel facility in the UK.

Bespak has taken considerable steps to support the pMDI industry’s shift from traditional propellants to environmentally responsible alternatives, showcasing the viability of pMDI formulations with low GWP propellants. The company’s comprehensive capabilities - from GLP lab-scale testing and product development to clinical and commercial-scale manufacturing - position it as a pivotal player in this transition. Bespak recently expanded its services with the availability of clinical supply solutions using HFA-152a, in partnership with H&T Presspart, and invested in a new high-speed filling line at Holmes Chapel to handle commercial production with this propellant.

Orbia Fluor & Energy Materials’ expertise in propellant innovation, combined with Bespak’s leadership in pMDI components, aims to accelerate reformulation and commercial production of low GWP inhalers. Their collaborative focus in the North West of England, an area renowned for its pMDI expertise, and additional support from Bespak’s King’s Lynn team, promises efficiency and agility in bringing new formulations to market.

Chris Hirst, CEO of Bespak, affirmed their dedication to enabling customers to adapt to evolving global regulations with sustainable inhaler options, stating: “Our goal is to transition as many formulations as possible, preserving patient access to pMDIs. We look forward to advancing with Orbia Fluor & Energy Materials at our Holmes Chapel site.”

Markus Laubscher, General Manager of Orbia Fluor & Energy Materials Pharma Business Unit, highlighted the partnership’s significance: “This collaboration is a critical step in launching pMDIs with our Zephex 152a propellant. Bespak’s expertise from valves and actuators to manufacturing scalability makes them an ideal partner in this industry-shaping initiative.”