The pharmaceutical industry discovers, manufactures, markets, and sells drugs that cure illnesses or alleviate symptoms.
Improving efficiency in pharmaceutical manufacturing not only benefits the company but can benefit patients as well. Learn three ways to improve efficiency in the pharmaceutical industry.
1. Outsource work to a CDMO
A contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) works on a contractual basis for pharmaceutical companies. The CDMO can provide services in drug development and manufacturing. Like in other industries, outsourcing work can help pharmaceutical companies grow their businesses and focus on other tasks, such as drug marketing or other steps in the drug development and manufacturing process.
One key consideration companies have when choosing a CDMO to partner with is how well the CDMO adheres to current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP). CGMP regulations ensure facilities and labs follow best practices to produce high-quality products.
2. Use a predictive maintenance program
Pharmaceutical companies can improve efficiency by applying a predictive maintenance program to manufacturing equipment. Even the best manufacturing equipment needs routine care. And when a piece of machinery goes down, the time it takes to repair the equipment and the lost production time result in decreased efficiency.
A predictive maintenance program analyzes equipment data such as maintenance history and real-time performance, then suggests when to perform maintenance. To gather the data, place monitoring sensors on the equipment. Predictive maintenance is a smart approach to proactive maintenance and helps companies make the most of their equipment.
3. Increase automation
Finally, pharmaceutical companies can improve their processes by increasing automation. New technology allows manufacturers to produce medicine at a higher rate and at a cost-efficient price. Automation also reduces the chance of human error, helping improve efficiency by improving accuracy and precision and increasing regulatory compliance.
Some of the best applications for automated technology include liquid dosing in tablet manufacturing, counterfeit prevention services, and filling and inspecting packaging. Drug manufacturers can expect a good return on investment with automation that improves production time and product quality.
