Formulation as Strategy: Why CDMOs Matter More Than Ever

About this episode

The episode discusses the critical role of CDMOs in drug formulation and development, featuring insights from Elizabeth Hickman of Austin Pharmaceutics.

Episode Title: Formulation as Strategy: Why CDMOs Matter More Than EverGuest: Elizabeth Hickman, President & CEO, Austin Pharmaceutics Episode Overview In this episode of RealPharma, hosts Nari Oh and Ian Wendt sit down with Elizabeth Hickman, President and CEO of Austin Pharmaceutics, to unpack one of the most critical—and often misunderstood—elements of drug development: formulation and the evolving role of CDMOs. As drug molecules become more complex and solubility challenges grow, CDMOs are no longer just manufacturing vendors. They are strategic partners helping biotech and pharma companies bridge the gap between discovery and commercialization. Elizabeth shares her journey from commercial pharma leadership to running a science-driven CDMO, and explains why formulation decisions made early can determine whether a promising molecule ever reaches patients. 🔍 Key Topics Covered The expanding role of CDMOsWhy CDMOs are shifting from executional partners to strategic extensions of pharma and biotech teams. Why formulation is make-or-breakHow solubility and bioavailability challenges derail up to 80% of modern drug candidates—and why these issues must be addressed early. From…

People in this episode

Hosts: Nari Oh, Ian Wendt

Guest: Elizabeth Hickman

Topics covered

• CDMOs
• drug formulation
• biotech partnerships
• solubility challenges
• bioavailability
• AI in drug discovery

Keywords

• CDMO
• drug development
• formulation strategy
• bioavailability
• solubility
• biotech
• pharmaceuticals
• AI-driven discovery

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Austin Pharmaceutics

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