Apertus Pharmaceuticals and API Innovation Center Join Forces for Lomustine

• The API Innovation Center has developed technology to accelerate the US production of lomustine, a critical cancer medication.

• The center will collaborate with Apertus Pharmaceuticals to expand its manufacturing in Missouri.

API Innovation Center, a drug development organisation, has achieved a significant milestone in the production of lomustine, a crucial medication used in the treatment of glioblastoma, the most common and aggressive form of malignant brain cancer. The API Innovation Center is teaming up with the Glioblastoma Foundation and Apertus. They’re using new production methods to make a top-notch cancer drug in the U.S.

Gita Kwatra, CEO of the Glioblastoma Foundation, said, “When faced with glioblastoma, no one should have to be worried about the cancer drug they need being in shortage or being cost-prohibitive. Partnership is key to resolving the lomustine crisis in the U.S. and working with the API Innovation Center and Apertus Pharmaceuticals, we now have the ability to provide patients with a safe, affordable U.S.-produced source of generic lomustine.”

As part of this collaboration, Apertus and the API Innovation Center will also invest in the establishment of an oncology production suite in Missouri.

Tony Sardella, chair and founder of the API Innovation Center, said, “The results of our lomustine project make it clear: A more efficient, cost-effective and sustainable route to pharmaceutical production is possible on U.S. soil. Working with our research and manufacturing partners, we are committed to strengthening the availability of high-quality, generic medications for cancer patients, healthcare systems, and retail pharmacies through the research and collaboration required to revolutionize the way our most relied-upon medications are made.” This announcement backs Missouri’s dedication to innovation in bioscience, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing for job growth and economic development and the security of the national pharmaceutical supply chain.

“The Missouri Technology Corporation is proud to further the work of the API Innovation Center and help foster the growth of Missouri’s manufacturing base,” said Dan Cobb, chairman of the Missouri Technology Corporation. “Proving investments for industries that are fundamental to the national security of the U.S. will help keep production of essential goods in Missouri and help create an environment for significant economic growth.”