Ajinomoto Althea (a US based contract development and manufacturing company), announced the installation and launch of a new high-performance sterile vial filling line. The new Optima VFVM 7000 aseptic fill finish line further strengthens Althea's drug product manufacturing capabilities and supports a broad range of drug substance APIs compatible with both peristaltic and rotary piston pump filling systems. This new filling line expands Althea's current capabilities by enabling larger batch sizes and a broader range of filling volumes (0.2 mL up to 100 mL). The new line significantly reduces product loss, thus preserving costly API. The state of the art equipment also provides 100% in-process-control, nitrogen purging, and several additional features to maximize yield. The addition of the Optima VFVM 7000 aseptic filling line enhances Althea's ability to meet the needs of its clinical and commercial clients.

Stacy Sutton, Head of Engineering, states, "We are very pleased to announce Althea's new Optima VFVM 7000 aseptic vial filling line. The upgraded capabilities of this line signify Althea's continued commitment to quality and technical excellence. The new equipment has features which expand our drug product capabilities to maximize filling accuracy for both small and large fill volumes and deliver larger batch sizes to our clients. The Optima VFVM 7000 is a key addition to Althea's service offerings and will enhance our ability to accommodate our clients."