The new service, which is being provided on a contractual basis, will initially focus on helping pharma companies improve the efficacy of inhaled drug delivery devices although, eventually it will be extended to cover use of automation in manufacture.
In addition to method development and validation, RTS and Hall will provide customers with laboratory and analytical consultancy for orally-inhaled and nasal drug products (OINDP) and canister testing services.
While the inhaled drug model may have suffered in recent years following the market failure of Pfizer’s Exubera, patient demand for alternatives to injections makes it likely that other drug firms will try to develop inhaler-based delivery solutions.
This need, coupled with the current pharmaceutical industry trend of reducing in-house R&D spending should ensure that the types of specialist analytical services and expertise offered by firms like RTS and Hall will be in demand.
RTS said that the new partnership combines its automated testing technology with Hall’s problem solving expertise and good laboratory practice (GLP) accredited analysis facilities.
Mark Fish, RTS’ director of drug delivery automation said that: "Our experience of inhaler testing automation means we understand how devices work and appreciate factors that can introduce variability in analytical testing.
“In addition, we have proven experience validating automation systems in accordance with the latest regulatory guidance. By offering these services, customers will benefit from this knowledge and have new options to help improve laboratory efficiency."
Hall’s managing director Malcolm Kimber was also upbeat about the collaboration, which he said “allows us to offer a more comprehensive range of services for inhaled devices [and build] on our experience working with pharmaceutical clients.”