PDA Letter Article

Innovation in Injectables An Inside Look at the Largest Event for PFS and Injection Devices

by Laurent Jeanmart, PhD, GSK and Brigitte Reutter-Haerle

The demand for prefilled syringes is growing exponentially around the world. Recent data values the injectable drug delivery market at USD 124.69 billion in 2024 with anticipated growth to USD 229.21 billion by 2032 (1). This aligns with a compound annual growth rate of 7.21% in the next eight years, and the growth will not stop there. In response to this dramatic rise in demand, pharmaceutical and biotechnology leaders must stay ahead of the curve, innovate proactively, and understand the evolving technologies, trends and new challenges driving the industry toward its future.

Information, Insights and Connection

How do you ensure you are ahead of the curve with cutting-edge industry knowledge? There is no better opportunity to learn first-hand from the injectable industry’s top experts than the PDA Universe of Pre-Filled Syringes and Injection Devices Conference 2024.

As the leading event for professionals in injectable manufacturing, the conference will provide expertise and insights about the latest innovations and trends in device technology, regulation, manufacturing and quality control and facing new challenges like sustainability. Celebrating its 21st year, key players will flock to Phoenix, Arizona, (USA) on 22-23 October for two days of shared knowledge and learning. The event is designed to spark connections leading to collaborative relationships and long-term partnerships. Plus, to celebrate the importance and influence of the market, top innovators will be awarded the Drug Delivery Innovation Award, including for Best Partnership.

Industry Challenges

With the rise in chronic diseases, the injectable sector faces growing challenges in the form of additional approval obstacles and a higher demand for blockbuster products and small-batch drugs. Navigating the complex and evolving requirements for combination products is a critical undertaking for many injectable drug products.

The shift from intravenous to subcutaneous is ushering in an emerging field of devices that exceed 2 ml to support patient self-administration. In response, the industry needs to adjust the drug development process with new, larger devices that address unique requirements.

The conference will also address sustainability, a key challenge. As a high-consumption industry with heavy plastic production, we need to focus on making smart, environmentally conscious decisions as responsible members of the value chain, notably considering carbon emission reduction and device recycling.

Throughout the conference, experts will explore emerging trends in the injectable delivery sector, including the growing demand for innovative home care solutions that allow for self-administration. Based on increasing popularity among patients, the development of digital systems that add connectivity to drug delivery devices, such as autoinjectors, is critical.

Experiential Agenda

This two-day event begins with a plenary session, setting the stage with a focus on the latest regulatory developments and guidance for combination products, common pitfalls in their development and approval, as well as lessons learned, best practices and helpful strategies. A second panel will address the marketplace and what its growth means for delivery options, including a look at current challenges and untapped opportunities.

Attendees will then progress to a series of concurrent sessions focused on critical industry and patient topics such as holistic design approaches for combination products, the nuances of autoinjectors and their role in high-dose delivery, quality control innovations, the rise of artificial intelligence in visual inspections, the human side of product development and many more. Opening day, the evening will conclude with a lively reception replacing the day’s work with relaxation and a chance to socialize with peers and colleagues.

Day two will feature lightning presentations—six-minute presentations offering impactful insights into emerging research and innovations. Then, a panel on drug delivery platforms and the unique perspectives that define the market will spark a dynamic discussion. Both device manufacturers and pharmaceutical industry experts will share their viewpoints and experiences as they discuss strategies, benefits and challenges in deploying standardized delivery device platforms across multiple-drug products. Throughout the day, concurrent sessions will highlight essential topics including drug-device combination products, large-volume drug delivery and sustainability.

Of course, no conference would be complete without addressing the trending obesity drug landscape and the transformation of drug delivery as it relates to GLP-1 and insulin. The day will conclude with a final panel on cross-industry collaboration to boost sustainability.

Added Value

Throughout the conference, the exhibition hall will feature more than 120 vendors showcasing top-of-the-line equipment and innovative solutions. Attendees can engage with leading service providers and explore new partnership opportunities and unparalleled technologies. Guided poster tours will also provide detailed explanations of groundbreaking projects from some of the industry’s leading minds.

Networking opportunities are planned throughout the entire conference for attendees to connect with peers, exchange ideas and experience, as well as build valuable relationships with the major players driving the industry’s rapid evolution and improvements in patient life. The main conference will be complemented with specialized training and the PDA Combination Products Workshop 2024 to bridge theory to practice.

Don't miss this opportunity to stay ahead of industry trends and enhance your knowledge of injectable manufacturing alongside the world’s most innovative industry leaders. Register now to secure your spot at the PDA Universe of Pre-Filled Syringes and Injection Devices Conference 2024 and be part of the future of injection device innovation.

We hope to see you there!

References

  1. Gotadki, R. Global Injectable Drug Delivery Market Overview, Market Research Future. (2023) Available at https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/injectable-drug-delivery-devices-market-1211.