Key Considerations For Selecting Fill/Finish Manufacturing Technologies

By Eleftherios Hristofas, Manager, R&D Pharma Processing, West Pharmaceutical Services

The growing pipeline of biologics, increase in vaccine production, and trends toward smaller batch sizes to serve smaller patient populations are increasing demand for advanced manufacturing technologies. These parenteral drugs require advanced facilities and equipment for fill/finish operations to ensure product quality and safety.

Manufacturing planning is a critical step in the path to commercialization and helps companies accelerate their path to market. As pharmaceutical, biotech companies, and contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs) look to build or expand manufacturing capabilities, they must consider strategies for maximization of floorspace, reduced risk of cross-contamination, manufacturing flexibility, varying throughput, tech transfer, and various primary packaging formats.

Obtaining information and proactively mapping out your approach early to better understand the decisions you need to make around your fill/finish strategy can de-risk an investment in equipment or processes, ensuring you meet your long-term needs.