BD to purchase Carmel Pharma
Will expand healthcare worker safety offerings to include reducing exposure to hazardous drugs
BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company), a global manufacturer of medical devices, instruments and reagents, is to acquire Carmel Pharma, the Swedish manufacturer of the PhaSeal drug transfer device for the safe handling of hazardous drugs packaged in vials.
Franklin Lakes, New Jersey based BD said the acquisition would expand its role in healthcare worker safety, particularly in the area of parenteral medication delivery.
The deal is expected to close by the end of BD's 2011 fiscal year. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
‘We believe that the combination of Carmel Pharma's current sales presence in hospital pharmacy with BD's much broader institutional presence on healthcare safety can accelerate adoption of this key safety platform,’ said William Kozy, executive vice president of BD.
The PhaSeal system developed by the Gothenburg-based firm is said to minimise the risk of exposure to potentially harmful liquids and vapours from toxic drugs. Its double-membrane technology and a unique pressure-equalising function ensure an airtight, leak proof solution throughout the preparation, administration and waste disposal chain. It is typically used in inpatient, outpatient and medical practices for the preparation and administration of hazardous drugs such as those used in the treatment of cancer.
Dan Pitulia, ceo of Carmel, said: ‘I believe BD will be an excellent owner and it has all the capabilities to accelerate Carmel Pharma’s next phase of growth. We will benefit hugely from BD’s access to new customers and from the fact that PhaSeal is complementary to BD’s existing product range.’