Micro-Sphere Boosts Capsule-Filling Capabilities

Contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) Micro-Sphere has partnered with German machine manufacturer Harro Höfliger for the latest step in its €19 million investment into its facility in Switzerland.  

Harro Höfliger has supplied a Modu-C MS capsule-filling machine, which boosts Micro-Sphere’s capsule filling production. A notional production of 72,000 capsules per hour and a 100% net weight check control, grant the correct dose when filling capsules for dry powder inhalers.

“Low dose capsule filling is becoming increasingly popular across the market and at present we are the only CDMO in Europe offering this level of capability,” said Micro-Sphere founder and president of the board, Michele Müller. “Harro Höfliger’s powder expertise and technological competence is particularly evident in the Modu-C MS. This investment is an important next step in our expansion plans, allowing us to meet demand for greater capacity and speed up project delivery for our customers.”

Based in Allmersbach, Germany, Harro Höfliger develops and manufactures production and packaging systems and is a valued development partner for many pharmaceutical and medical technology companies.

Marco Laackmann, business unit leader, inhalation, Harro Höfliger,said, “The capacitive fill quantity control of the Modu-C MS offers excellent process reliability and is a great choice for Micro-Sphere in line with its continued expansion. We’re delighted to be a part of their exciting future.”

From its GMP, SwissMedic and FDA approved facility near Lugano, Ticino, Micro-Sphere’s team supports customers in the U.S., Europe, New Zealand and Asia with spray drying and capsule filling capabilities for the development and manufacture of both potent and non-potent pharmaceutical products, with a particular focus on inhalable dosage forms.