Lonza Capsules and Health Ingredients introduces HPMC double-blinded capsules for clinical trials

June 12, 2020
  • Capsugel® DBcaps® (double-blinded capsules) are designed to be used as an over-encapsulation solution with a tamper-evident design addressing the clinical trial challenge of testing without bias
  • These opaque products have an extended cap length and dual locking rings which makes them extremely hard to open without damaging the capsules and breaking the blind
  • The portfolio now includes a wide size range and both gelatin and HPMC variations. This makes them suitable for use with multiple formulations properties and multiple oral dosage forms sizes to be over-encapsulated

Quote from Julien Lamps, Product Manager, Lonza:

“Capsugel® DBcaps® capsules have been specifically created to combat the main hurdles during double-blinded clinical trials. This opaque product has an extended cap length and dual locking rings which mean that they are not only allowing a high visual coverage of the form that is placed inside, but also extremely hard to open without damaging the capsules and breaking the blind. We have just broadened our portfolio by adding an HPMC version to the standard gelatin one. This makes them suitable for use with multiple formulations properties, like for example hygroscopicity or prone to promote cross-linking phenomena. The capsules are available also in a range of sizes and colors, making them suitable for a variety of products in all shapes and sizes. In addition, their shorter length makes them easier for patients to swallow, helping to improve patient compliance.“

Quote from Steve Rode, Business Development Manager, Lonza:

“During clinical trials it is imperative that sponsor companies and contract research companies alike can have peace of mind that they are complying sufficiently with blinding regulations to ensure a smooth journey to market. By combining anti-tampering measures with a flexible and robust product, we have been able to develop a solution that will meet the needs of our customers globally.“

Basel, Switzerland, 12 June 2020 – A global capsule and equipment developer and manufacturer, Lonza has introduced an enhanced product line aimed at tackling concerns around bias during blinded clinical trials. 

Capsugel® DBcaps® double-blinded capsules are designed to be used as an over-encapsulation tool during clinical phases to overcome the challenges of blinding products during trials. 

Capsugel® DBcaps® capsules can be used with medical devices, as well as for over-encapsulation of uniquely shaped dosage forms and comparator products. They offer a faster, more cost-efficient solution for companies who would otherwise have to produce placebo forms identical in shape and size to the candidate product. 

Lonza is a global capsule and equipment developer and manufacturer which designs and produces innovative products for a wide range of oral dosage forms across the pharmaceutical and consumer health and nutrition market. By combining science, engineering and expertise with innovation and flexibility the company provides quality products to more than 4,000 customers in over 100 countries and can offer advice on how to achieve customised solutions that optimise formulations and align with project and consumer requirements.

About Lonza

At Lonza, we combine technological innovation with world class manufacturing and process excellence. Together, these enable our customers to deliver their discoveries in the healthcare, preservation, and protection sectors.

We are a preferred global partner to the pharmaceutical, biotech and specialty ingredients markets. We work to prevent illness and promote a healthier world by enabling our customers to deliver innovative medicines that help treat or even cure a wide range of diseases. We also offer a broad range of microbial control solutions, which help to create and maintain a healthy environment.

Founded in 1897 in the Swiss Alps, Lonza today operates in 120 sites and offices in more than 35 countries. With approximately 15,500 full-time employees, we are built from high-performing teams and of individual employees who make a meaningful difference to our own business, as well as the communities in which we operate. The company generated sales of CHF 5.9 billion in 2019 with a CORE EBITDA of CHF 1.6 billion. Find out more at www.lonza.com and follow us on Twitter @LonzaGroup or Facebook @LonzaGroupAG. 

Lonza Contact Details

Dr. Kristin Koehler 
Investor Relations
Lonza Group Ltd
Tel +41 61 316 8782
kristin.koehler@lonza.com

Dr. Sanna Fowler 
Head of External Communications
Lonza Group Ltd
Tel +41 61 316 8929 
sanna.fowler@lonza.com

Sara Lesina
Global Marketing, Capsules and Health Ingredients
Tel +32 3 890 05 11 
sara.lesina@lonza.com

Additional Information and Disclaimer

Lonza Group Ltd has its headquarters in Basel, Switzerland, and is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange. It has a secondary listing on the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (“SGX-ST”). Lonza Group Ltd is not subject to the SGX-ST’s continuing listing requirements but remains subject to Rules 217 and 751 of the SGX-ST Listing Manual. 

Certain matters discussed in this news release may constitute forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations and estimates of Lonza Group Ltd, although Lonza Group Ltd can give no assurance that these expectations and estimates will be achieved. Investors are cautioned that all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainty and are qualified in their entirety. The actual results may differ materially in the future from the forward-looking statements included in this news release due to various factors. Furthermore, except as otherwise required by law, Lonza Group Ltd disclaims any intention or obligation to update the statements contained in this news release.