Catalent begins supply of Abilify antipsychotic drug to Otsuka Pharma

Catalent has started supplying its antipsychotic drug, Abilify, an orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) to Otsuka Pharmaceutical.

Abilify ODT, which utilizes Catalent’s Zydis fast dissolve drug delivery technology, is designed to improve manic symptoms associated with bipolar disorder as well as to treat schizophrenia.

Catalent said to support the increasing demand for Zydis ODT formulations, it is making multi-million dollar investments in Swindon, UK.

Catalent modified release technology business president Ian Muir said the company’s Zydis fast dissolve technology has provided a tablet that is very palatable, and disintegrates within seconds in the mouth, making it very easy to take.

“As patient medication compliance is critical for those requiring antipsychotic therapies, Otsuka believes this new formulation will be of great assistance to patients in Japan,” Muir added.

“Abilify® OD is the 8th drug approved and launched in Japan, using Catalent’s Zydis ODT.” Catalent president Hans-Joachim Rohe said the company has seen an increasing number of customers specifically seeking truly rapid disintegration and superior palatability in order to differentiate their products in Japan’s competitive market.

“In this regard, Zydis ODT can excel over competing alternatives such as loosely compressed tablets,” Rohe added.