How Do I Choose a CDMO?

Sov Pharm
3 min readMar 1, 2022

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With hundreds of pharmaceutical CDMOs to choose from, selecting the proper CDMO can rapidly become a daunting endeavor. The good news is that a few decisive elements are consistent across the sector.

When selecting an outsourced manufacturing partner, keep in mind how your needs vary over time. After all, you’re entering into a long-term collaboration.

Investment in sophisticated manufacturing technology by contract development and manufacturing firms is a significant driver of this expansion (CDMOs).

With hundreds of CDMO pharmaceutical company to choose from, selecting the proper CDMO can rapidly become a daunting endeavor. The good news is that a few decisive elements are consistent across the sector.

Five Factors To Consider When Choosing the best CDMO Company

1.Experience

There is no alternative for a lengthy history of service and excellence. Self-awareness is one of its most significant advantages for outsourced manufacturers and, by extension, their pharmaceutical clients. Too many businesses try to be everything to everyone and lose sight of what they do best. Time allows for the examination of service offerings, the development of knowledge, and, most notably in our sector, the result of a good reputation.

2. Reputation

The CDMO that does not overpromise and regularly produces a high-quality product on time is the hidden jewel of the outsourced manufacturing business. A surprising proportion of firms fail to meet deadlines, costing partners both time and money. Expansions and investments in cutting-edge technologies are reliable signs of dependable, long-term outsourced manufacturing partners. Successful connections necessitate expansion, and enhance technical competency to maintain long-standing, mutually beneficial arrangements while preparing for future demand.

3. Technical Competency

This comes with capacity and expertise, and it is part of the reputation of an outsourced manufacturing partner. However, forward-thinking partners will want to differentiate themselves further by not relying solely on equipment. A closer analysis reveals another differentiator: outsourced manufacturing partners who recruit nationally secure a more varied and highly qualified personnel base, contributing critical features to both the company’s culture and the quality of its product.

4. Understand Your Risk Levels

Every new initiative involves some level of danger, but it’s critical to recognize the level of risk you’re taking on with a new business. The three most common risk variables are time, budget, and region.

Time is constantly at a premium, and there is sometimes a lot of pressure to stick to a schedule. Capsules must be ready by a specified date to begin your clinical study. Can you afford a hiccup if issues arise? Will a month-long delay harm the program?

Another factor to consider is the budget, and the questions vary based on where your organization is in the development cycle. The objective in the early stages is to provide proof-of-concept as soon and cheaply as feasible. Spending some development expenditures to improve processes makes more sense as the scale grows. When creating your RFP, consider your budget as well. Can you afford repeated scope changes if your request is incomplete? It may take some time to get it properly, but keep that deadline in mind.

5. Understand Your Project

Once you’ve determined the level of commitment and risk your business is willing to tolerate, it’s time to get serious about your project. After all, how can you narrow down your list of potential CDMOs if you don’t match your project requirements to their strengths and weaknesses? Is there any specific technology necessary for your projects, such as low temperature, high pressure, or highly energetic chemistry, that you should consider while evaluating it? For formulation, you may need to measure out minimal amounts. Is there a unique safety concern, such as a high-potency or dust explosion risk?

The outsourced manufacturing landscape, like many others, is evolving, particularly in the health care sector. Pharmaceutical clients’ needs are growing, and more efficient delivery strategies are taking prominence. With this ongoing flux, a trusted partner that prioritizes culture and quality — and understands the complexities that form a brand — is an essential component to success. Contact us today for your liquid manufacturing cdmo needs.

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Sov Pharm

e're your one-stop shop for all things CDMO, covering formulation development, clinical trials, QA, regulatory, solid dose manufacturing, liquid manufacturing