Pharmaceutical Technology Europe-01-01-2012

PTE interviews Accu-Break's David Beach about using multilayer technology to create accurate breakable tablets and flexible fixed-dose combination drugs.

Fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) reduce the number of pills that must be taken, but they have also been a topic of concern, mainly because of the perceived potential for increased adverse events. PTE speaks with researchers to explore the benefits and concerns of FDCs.

Multilayer tablets: A piece of cake or just a passing fad? We bring experts together to find out.

Firstly, Happy New Year! Please help yourself to a slice of cake.

The past few years have witnessed some dreary numbers in both Europe and the US when it comes to new products, but 2011 figures released by the European Medicines Agency may be early indicators for a 2012 upturn.

The next two years may see a shake up in the world's current top pharmaceutical companies, with Pfizer likely to be the only US firm to remain in the top five by sales.

Multilayer tablets can be challenging, but meeting regulatory expectations is crucial. We speak with Vilayat Sayeed from the FDA, to find out more about the critical factors that need to be fully understood.