DSM, Shire Enter Supply Pact

DSM has entered into a multi-million dollar contract with Shire US Manufacturing, Inc. under which DSM will manufacture and supply specialty pharmaceutical products for Shire.

During a period of three years, beginning April 2009, Shire will transition several products, including Carbatrol (carbamezepine), Intuniv (guanfacine extended release), Lialda (mesalamine), Pentasa (mesalamine) and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) from its Owings Mills, MD facility to DSM’s facility in Greenville, NC. There is an initial term of five years for commercial manufacturing of most products upon completion of a successful transition.

Jan Zuidam, deputy chairman of DSM’s board, remarked, “This is the level of partnership that DSM is committed to and represents the strength of our well established, long term customer relationship with Shire. We believe this deal represents an endorsement of our competitive cost structure and continuing commitment to excellence in providing the pharma industry with confidence in the quality and security of supply that DSM can provide.”

Bob Hartmayer, president and chief executive officer of DSM Pharmaceutical Products, added, “The breadth of our capabilities and regulatory excellence allow us to ensure delivery for our customers drawing on DSM’s expertise, competence and financial strength. We are thrilled to expand our commercial relationship with Shire, and look forward to the prospect of future growth at our Greenville facility.”