dsm-firmenich and Zerion Pharma partnership will focus on patient centric CBD formulations

The company says patients currently have to self-administer large volumes of cannabidiol (CBD) to achieve a helpful therapeutic outcome.

The partnership grants dsm-firmenich global access to ZERION AS’s Dispersome technology, developed to significantly increase the bioavailability of oral CBD compared to commercially available CBD oils. The companies say that not only will the collaboration inspire a new generation of patient-first cannabinoid therapies, but it also enhances dsm-firmenich’s end-to-end capabilities in the promising cannabinoid space.  

dsm-firmenich says the limited oral bioavailability of cannabinoid molecules, like CBD, is a known barrier to unlocking their full potential. The new partnership aims to change that by granting dsm-firmenich’s formulation expert center exclusive access to Zerion A/S’s Dispersome technology. The IP-protected technology has enabled the creation of CBD formulations with three to four times higher drug loading compared to existing commercial products.

Dr. Zdravka Misic, innovation manager dsm-firmenich, says: “From the very beginning of our cannabinoid journey, the patient has always been front of mind. At present, too many patients have to administer large volumes of CBD in oil to achieve a positive therapeutic outcome.

“However, with our formulation expertise and Zerion A/S’s innovative technology, we have been able to achieve an optimal balance between API loading, physical and chemical stability and CBD pharmacokinetic profile – and thus enhance the applicability of the molecule towards more patient-centric solutions.” 

dsm-firmenich has confirmed plans for a pharmacokinetic study starting 2024, to evaluate the bioavailability of its new, THC-free, GMP-certified, pharma-grade CBD formulations, developed using the Dispersome technology in patients.

Ultimately, the company’s next-generation CBD formulation has the potential to open up opportunities for new clinical investigations across several therapeutic areas, including central nervous system (CNS) diseases, pain disorders, mood disorders, brain health, cancer, and more – where cannabinoids are already demonstrating significant potential.  

Kelsey Achenbach, senior director pharma and medical nutrition, dsm-firmenich, adds: “We’re passionate about overcoming hurdles to innovation in the cannabinoid space and are constantly looking for new opportunities to inspire the next ground-breaking therapy. Our partnership with Zerion A/S is the latest pillar in a vast ecosystem of important partnerships, selected to elevate our offering in the pharmaceutical cannabinoid market.

“Backed by strong collaborations, like Zerion A/S and Brains Bioceutical, manufacturer of high-quality pharma-grade cannabinoids, we can support customers at every stage of the drug development journey. Looking forward, we will continue to expand our unique network of partnerships to advance cannabinoid research and ultimately increase access to more patient-centric therapies worldwide.”