The German drug packaging and delivery systems company has developed SensAIR, a drug delivery device for drugs with higher viscosity.
The objective of the new delivery system is to support patients in terms of the subcutaneous delivery of large-volume biologics, it explained.
“SensAIR is Gerresheimer`s innovative on-body drug delivery device platform developed for the subcutaneous delivery of [drugs such as] monoclonal antibodies (mAb) for volumes beyond pens and autoinjectors,” said Ingo Waschulewski, international business development, Gerresheimer.
He told us the device enables patients or caregivers to start medication in a self-determined manner in familiar surroundings, at home or in a hospital setting.
“The user loads the drug cartridge in the medical device, attaches it onto the body and activates the device to start delivery. Once drug delivery is complete, the patient detaches the device.”
Gerresheimer says it is both a partner for the SensAIR device and a supplier and manufacturer of the primary packaging, thus adding value as a long-term partner and system supplier.
“As a center of competence for micro pump technologies, Gerresheimer is the one-stop-shop partner to fill the gap when it comes to state-of-the-art on-body delivery devices. Our product platforms offer a series of filling options and allow cost-efficient customization to meet drug products’ needs. We can offer both, the medical SensAIR device and the primary packaging for the drug: the glass cartridge, for example,” said Waschulewski.
Protecting healthcare professionals
The company will also be showcasing its new syringe, Gx InnoSafe, which it claims is the first on the market to have a passive needle protection system. Its function, said the firm, is to protect healthcare professionals against unintentional needlestick injuries (NSI), as the needle is fixed in a sleeve after use.
“It is intended for subcutaneous use as the syringe cannot penetrate deep enough under the skin for intramuscular application."
Healthcare professionals and the World Health Organization (WHO) have stressed the need for such a device, said Gerresheimer. Every year, around 500,000 NSI occur, said the company. Nurses are among the occupational groups with the most frequent cuts and puncture wounds. This can lead to infection with dangerous pathogens such as hepatitis B and C viruses or HIV.an
The syringe can also be processed on all existing filling lines without any additional preparation or conversion steps. Furthermore, it complies with all regulations without any additional investment, said the developer.
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