Covestro showcases drug delivery device at MD&M West

Polycarbonate supplier Covestro has introduced a new drug delivery conceptual device aimed to ensure medicines are delivered on time, accurately, and can connect medical providers and pharmacies with patients and caregivers.

George Paleos, head of Global Healthcare, Covestro, said: “We are excited to apply our research and application development expertise to push boundaries and imagine a brighter future for the millions of patients who use daily medications. We understand that the future of medical care will demand smarter, more connected and convenient drug delivery devices. As a supplier of polycarbonate resin we are ready to work with our healthcare customers to help them shape the future, beginning today.

“With this drug delivery concept, we want to demonstrate possibilities of what the future could be like for manufacturers and patients – and how Covestro polycarbonate solutions can help make it happen.”

Engineers from the Application Development Group at Covestro combined their knowledge of healthcare trends and technologies across multiple industries to develop the concept drug delivery device. The concept was in development for more than one year.

Jessee McCanna, principal engineer, Covestro, said: “This concept is different from devices we see currently on the market. It is designed not to look like a typical drug delivery device in an effort to make it more user-friendly, and increase both comfort and patient adherence.”

The concept incorporates a direct skinning/direct coating technology, providing exceptional tactile qualities for patients as well as streamlined, efficient manufacturing possibilities. While the technology is not new, it has rarely been used beyond automotive applications. In this design, direct coating is used to encapsulate the body of the device, creating a hermetic and tamper-resistant seal. Both high gloss and matte finishes are present on the outer surface, and the haptics (soft-feel) can be varied based on the polyurethane chemistry used. Compared to traditional spray coating, direct coating offers increased design flexibility and streamlines manufacturing, while avoiding paint overspray and the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

The device is on display at MD&M West in Anaheim, California, and at Pharmapack in Paris until 7 February.