Lab-Scale Continuous Pharma Processing Turns Heads at INTERPHEX JAPAN

GEA Pharma Systems exhibited its ConsiGma 1 lab-scale continuous pharmaceutical processing concept for pharmaceutical laboratories at Interphex Japan, on 10–12 July 2013. The company and its Japanese partner EUROTECHNO of Tokyo reported considerable interest in the technology and a constant stream of interested visitors to the stand.

The ConsiGma 1 is much faster and uses less API than conventional batch systems. It consists of a patented continuous high shear granulator equipped with all necessary auxiliaries and a small dryer capable of handling 0.5 to 1.5 kg of granules. Together, they provide  integrated controls for the development of continuous processes.

ConsiGma 1 is capable of running batches of a couple of hundred grams up to 5 kg (or more if necessary). The fast processing, minimal retention times and flexibility of the system makes it ideal for developing formula and process parameters.

Compared with standard batch processing, ConsiGma 1 is ten times faster and uses just one tenth of the API when developing a formulation, resulting in a huge cost benefit. In addition, the process parameters developed with ConsiGma 1 are scaled up seamlessly when directly transferred to the full ConsiGma system, for commercial level continuous production of sold dose forms.

Among the most popular attractions on the GEA Pharma Systems stand at Interphex Japan were the daily demonstrations in the Demoroom on the stand showing ConsiGma 1 in operation. During the demonstrations visitors were encouraged to question the technician and spend some time getting familiar with the technology in a totally safe environment.

To date, two major Japanese pharmaceutical companies have invested in ConsiGma 1. Worldwide more than 25 systems were sold to the industry in the past three years.

Both ConsiGma 1 and the full continuous ConsiGma line (including tablet press) can be tested in the GEA Pharma Systems Process Development Center in Wommelgem, Belgium, or alternatively, at the Yokohama Technical Center operated by EUROTECHNO in Japan.

GEA Pharma Systems nv – Collette, +32 3 350 12 88, kris.schoeters@geagroup.com, www.gea-ps.com.