Gwent-based pharmaceutical manufacturer Penn Pharma has announced an agreement with BioAlliance Pharma to manufacture one of its leading development products in Penn’s new contained manufacturing facility which opened last year.

Penn Pharma, which is based in Tredegar, has been chosen by BioAlliance, an international specialist based in France, for the development and manufacture of Validive.

The product, which is developed for the prevention and treatment of oral mucositis induced by radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy in cancer patients, received Fast Track status this month from the US Food and Drug Administration.

Penn Pharma will be involved in the development of the final dosage form, Phase lll clinical supplies and future commercial supply needs.

Chief executive at BioAlliance Pharma Judith Greciet said: “We have chosen to continue the development of this leading product with Penn Pharma due to itsexpertise and capability in solid dose contained manufacturing."

Penn Pharma’s chief executive Richard Yarwood said: “We are privileged to have been chosen by BioAlliance Pharma to manufacture one their most advanced pipeline products. Our expertise in contained manufacturing allied with our proven ability to support products through to commercialisation will ensure we will meet the customer’s needs."

Penn Pharma delivers integrated drug development, clinical trial supply and manufacturing services to the international healthcare industry.