Increased Capacity at Obiter Research

Press Release, September 08, 2016

CHAMPAIGN – Illinois

Clinical trials have been underway for the development of new drugs to combat major diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis, Cystic Fibrosis, Lupus and Pediatric Epilepsies. A common chemical intermediate used in the manufacture of these particular new drugs is (+)-p-mentha-2,8-dien-1-ol or (PMD).  PMD is difficult to produce in bulk, and there are a limited number of manufacturers available in the United States.

Obiter Research LLC has recognized this as an opportunity and has been manufacturing PMD at their Champaign, Illinois facility for almost two years. “When we first started making the material, we would sell as much as we could make.  We simply could not keep up with the inquiries.  We have seen a substantial increase in interest in PMD, specifically in large quantities from a number of different sources,” stated Dr. William Boulanger, Executive Chemist at Obiter.

During clinical trials pharmaceutical companies want to identify and approve suppliers that meet their stringent requirements. They need reliable sources for the quality and quantity of materials needed to ensure the drug gets to market in a minimal amount of time.

“We have invested heavily in increasing our production capabilities of PMD and can produce thousands of kilograms annually.  Much of this increased capacity has come by way of chemical engineering of the process and allocation of product specific equipment and resources,” said Chad Boulanger, CEO of Obiter.  “It’s not just the volume being produced; it is the quality of our material.  Our PMD is extremely pure. Rigorous testing takes place and must be approved and released by Quality Control prior to sale.  Each batch must meet or exceed pre-determined specifications.”

The demand for PMD appears to be on the rise and looks to increase in future years with the success of the various trials being conducted.  Obiter Research is prepared and in position to take advantage of the opportunity.