Probiotic For Antibiotic Associated Diarrhoea

Encap Drug Delivery and Probac AB recently entered into an exclusive collaboration agreement to develop an oral probiotic for the treatment of antibiotic associated diarrhoea (AAD). Both companies intend to build on their respective experience in this area to address the problem of hospital infections which can cause AADs including Clostridium difficile (C difficile). A neutraceutical / pharmaceutical product will be developed using Probac's capabilities in probiotic development and Encap's expertise in drug delivery.

The use of probiotics in the treatment of C. diff and other AADs has been the subject of great interest lately. Recent studies have shown that by drinking probiotic yoghurt drinks, the incidence of diarrhea symptoms can be reduced. However, concerns remain about the effectiveness of these products and the number of live bacteria that can survive passage through the stomach to recolonise the intestine. Encap and Probac intend to create a novel capsule product that will deliver specially selected probiotic strains to the small and large intestine. Approximately 20% of all hospital patients receiving antibiotic treatment will develop AAD and it is hoped that this probiotic product will help reduce the incidence and severity of diarrhea, the length of stay in hospital and ultimately the mortality rate from severe cases.

Under the terms of the agreement, Encap will perform all development and manufacturing of the product using their patented DuoCap technology. Probac will be responsible for the supply of selected microbial strains and for conducting a volunteer study to confirm the benefits of probiotic delivery to the lower intestinal tract using this technology.

Once the initial volunteer study has been completed, a partner will be sought to provide funding for a proof of principle clinical study in a hospital environment to demonstrate an acceptable level of efficacy and patient benefits. The partner will also help with subsequent commercialisation of the product.

If you are interested in discussing this opportunity, then please contact:

Robbie Stewart (Sales and Marketing Director)