BASF opens dermatology lab to solve formulation challenges
The facility will help solve clients’ dermal formulation challenges using the chemical firm’s solubilizers and other products from its excipient portfolio – including liquid and semi-solid forms.
It will also conduct clinical trials to test irritation and allergy reactions. BASF told us therapy areas will include wounds, acne, inflammatory rosacea, hyper pigmentary disorders and ophthalmic indications.
A spokesman told Outsourcing-Pharma.com the decision to open the lab was based on the increasing importance of drug delivery via the skin, explaining that: “Besides the necessity to improve solubility of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) within the dermal formulation, the industry challenges are more focused on convenience, irritation and reduction of side effects.”
Of its client base, the company also said it will collaborate with a “select group” of pharmaceutical innovators, generic manufacturers, and custom manufacturing, research and development organisations.
Cognis legacy
The move follows BASF’s EUR3.1bn takeover of Cognis in December 2010.
The German chemicals giant has since divested the none-core units acquired as part of the deal. However, it also retained some units that were outside core focus including a range of lipid-based emollients, surfactants, emulsifiers, gelling agents, waxes and solubilizers that will be an integral part of its expanding dermatology business.
Start applying the news
The spokesman also told us that BASF were keen to open the facility in New York because it is at the “forefront” of topical R&D.
“The new global laboratory for topical formulations is in close proximity to our key customers and our personal care laboratories at Tarrytown and Long Island. Both personal care laboratories are at the forefront of skincare research and formulation,” he said.
