Dr. Asma Patel, VP of Global Commercial and Scientific Consulting-Drug Product, discusses the impact of patient-centric formulations and other trends shaping drug development ahead for 2026.
Patient‑centric drug development continues to reshape formulation strategies while emphasizing patient needs, convenience, and better clinical outcomes. According to Dr. Asma Patel, the growth of complex modalities including oral peptides has intensified demand for CDMOs with specialized scientific expertise.
The shift toward patient‑centricity requires tailored solutions for pediatrics and rare diseases, including taste masking, flexible dosing, and advanced delivery systems. Additionally, AI-based technologies can further enhance predictive modeling, reduce failures, and streamline development.
"CDMO partners now increasingly act as strategic collaborators with integrated capabilities, including adaptive GMP manufacturing, rather than transactional vendors." she comments.
CDMOs increasingly engage early—often in preclinical stages—to conserve scarce API, navigate regulatory challenges, and build patient‑ready formulations faster. The role of a trusted and experienced CDMO is essential in orphan drug development, especially, when factoring needs including small‑batch drug product manufacturing, global regulatory compliance, and accelerated pathways granted from regulatory bodies.
Looking ahead, Dr. Patel expects strong growth in outsourcing as AI, automation, and integrated platforms transform formulation design and development efficiency. For more insight, continue reading the full Q&A on PharmaTech.