Evonik’s non-animal-derived squalene PhytoSquene is now available produced under GMP. Launched last year, PhytoSquene, is the first GMP amaranth oil-derived squalene on the market for use in adjuvants in parenteral dosage forms, according to the company. By offering plant-based squalene, Evonik is meeting the demand for a secure commercial supply of squalene for pharmaceutical applications, which is currently refined from shark liver oil.
  
PhytoSquene is made from the oil of amaranth (Amaranthus caudatus) which is an herbaceous plant cultivated in many parts of the world. Being plant derived, PhytoSquene provides batch-to-batch consistency, quality, and purity. It is compliant with European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.) specifications.

Squalene is a natural organic compound that is used as a component in some adjuvant systems. Adjuvants are additives that boost the body’s immune response to the active ingredient in a vaccine. They reduce the amount of active ingredient needed and make it faster and to scale vaccine production and potentially reduce the risk of side effects in patients.

“With PhytoSquene, our customers can create a drug product that promotes a healthy life and reduces dependence on animal-derived materials,” said Paul Spencer, head of drug delivery & products at Evonik’s Health Care business. Our GMP material now helps move these sustainable pharmaceuticals into the clinical and commercial phase.”