Aptar Pharma is starting a technical collaboration with COVIRIX Medical, a feasibility study for a dry powder inhalation (DPI) platform. The DPI platform, proprietary to Aptar Pharma, is being adapted for delivery of COVIRIX Medical’s antiviral compound.

If the collaboration is successful, the two parties say they will explore development of an integrated, finished product. This could potentially be used against pandemic-potential respiratory viruses—Covid-19, seasonal and avian influenza, or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

How Aptar and COVIRIX Will Collaborate

Already, COVIRIX Medical’s antiviral portfolio has demonstrated positive results against such viruses, according to that company. It intends to advance its broad-spectrum compounds toward inhaled delivery, in order to directly target the respiratory tract.

Meanwhile, Aptar Pharma’s DPI technology, Orbital, delivers high-payload powder drug formulations directly into the lungs. Aptar Pharma describes it as novel and easy to use, in either single-use or reusable methods. Moreover, the company says, it holds the promise of advantages for a growing range of molecules.

“Our specialized services were created precisely for this purpose,” said Jonathan Mulpas, Aptar Pharma Director of Business Development, Pulmonary Category. “[We] guide customers through complex regulatory pathways and advance their programs efficiently.”

Advantages of Inhaled Antiviral Delivery

By shifting away from powder capsule delivery, Aptar Pharma and COVIRIX Medical aim for higher local efficiency, minimizing side effects.

In addition, the Aptar Pharma company Nanopharm will assist in the facilitation and acceleration of formulation development.

“This collaboration provides access to critical delivery technology and commercial relationships,” said Dr. Kumud Dhital, COVIRIX Medical Director and CEO. “It accelerates our path to market for a much-needed antiviral solution … a win-win for both companies and global public health.”

Both Aptar Pharma and COVIRIX Medical stressed that at this time, their collaboration is focused only on feasibility work. The alliance does not presently guarantee development or commercialization of any products.