Speaking to in-PharmaTechnologist Harold Nicholl, communications leader at Dow, explained that the 300, 400 and 600 low aldehyde grades of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) require significant expertise to manufacture. This limits the companies that have the capabilities to pursue the niche opportunity.
Dow believes the products will be of use in applications involving gelatin encapsulation or in formulations where aldehyde impurities decrease stability. Furthermore, when high dosages are needed use of the new excipients will reduce ethylene glycol levels to help comply with US Pharmacopoeia <467>.