Ashland Inc. (NYSE: ASH) has launched permexa™ sodium caprate, a pharmaceutical excipient designed to support the development and manufacturing of oral peptide and biologic drug products, including GLP-1 agonists, according to a company statement.

The product is an intestinal permeation enhancer built on sodium caprate chemistry and manufactured through an IP-protected process. Ashland says the excipient is engineered to offer improved powder flow, enhanced compressibility and greater formulation consistency compared to conventional sodium caprate, while preserving permeability enhancement properties needed for oral drug delivery.

Ahead of the commercial launch, Ashland reported engagement with pharmaceutical companies, biotechs and contract development and manufacturing organizations globally, including sampling, technical evaluations, pre-launch sales and formulation development discussions.

"The rapid growth of oral peptide development is creating demand for excipients that support both biological performance and pharmaceutical manufacturability," said Alessandra Faccin, senior vice president and general manager, Life Sciences, Ashland. "The level of engagement we have seen prior to launch demonstrates the importance of solutions that support both drug delivery performance and scalable manufacturing."

Caroline Cooreman, strategy director, Life Sciences, Ashland, noted the company has developed a multi-stage strategy for oral biologics delivery excipients and has additional products in its pipeline. She also cited planned synergies with Ashland's existing vinyl pyrrolidone and derivatives portfolio.

Ashland is a specialty ingredients company headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, serving customers across pharmaceutical, personal care, food and beverage, and other markets.