Particle Sciences Boosts High Potency Capabilities

Particle Sciences Inc. (PSI) has expanded its High Potency Compound (HPC) handling capabilities through a relationship with IES Engineers. Under the arrangement, IES Engineers will be responsible for evaluating incoming materials and placing them into exposure control bands, which specify the safe procedures around their handling and processing. IES will also be involved in specific design and implementation of HPC-related procedures. In this way, PSI will gain the experience and capabilities of a leader in potent compound safety.

“HPCs are an increasing part of our business and an area that many CROs are unwilling to make the necessary investment in to safely handle them,” said Dr. Robert Lee, PSI’s vice president Pharmaceutical Development. “Each HPC is different and requires its own set of considerations. Companies need both the physical and staffing infrastructure to work with them. For PSI, the key task was proper strategic staffing maximizing not only our ability to work with HPCs but to do it in a way that was commercially viable.”

George Petroka, director BioPharma/EHS Services at IES Engineers, said, “This is the standard approach adopted by big Pharma for working with HPCs, but is not as common outside of that group, and demonstrates PSI’s dedication to working with HPCs and providing innovative HPC services. By using IES Engineers in this capacity, PSI is assuring their clients of industry-leading practices and careful review of procedures. It would be very difficult for a mid-sized company to acquire the level of expertise we can provide.”

Dr. Lee added, “Our core areas are nano-based systems and difficult-to-formulate APIs both in semisolids and combination products. Obviously, a great number of these products are HPCs such as oncology agents and various hormone preparations. Expanding this capability only makes sense as we look for better ways to serve our client base.”