MedPharm, Ltd. & Tergus Pharma Merge To Redefine Topical Drug Development

MedPharm, Ltd., backed by Ampersand Capital Partners, and Tergus Pharma, supported by Great Point Partners, have announced a merger, effective July 8, 2024. The newly consolidated entity will operate under the MedPharm name, forming a premier Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) specializing in topical and transepithelial products. Michael Kane, CEO of Tergus Pharma, assumes the role of CEO at MedPharm, while Patrick Walsh remains as Executive Chairman.

This merger positions the combined company as a global leader in comprehensive drug development and manufacturing services, emphasizing topical and transepithelial pharmaceuticals. Integrating Tergus and MedPharm’s capabilities enables streamlined operations from formulation development and in vitro testing to clinical manufacturing and commercial production. The expanded offerings will include the manufacturing of hormone-based and highly potent drugs at their GMP facility in Durham, NC.

Michael Kane said in a statement, “This strategic partnership is an exciting opportunity to deliver extensive pharmaceutical product development resources fueled by a robust team of scientific experts while leveraging our cutting-edge topical GMP facility to seamlessly meet our customers’ commercial production needs. With locations in both the United Kingdom and the United States, we are well positioned to provide exceptional support to our existing and prospective pharmaceutical clients.”

Patrick Walsh, MedPharm Executive Chairman Patrick Walsh added “Pharma clients have been seeking a reliable, integrated service offering for their ophthalmic, topical and transdermal development and manufacturing projects. This merger creates an immediate option with two organizations already well-positioned in the industry.”

Great Point Partners, the primary investor in Tergus, will maintain a substantial minority stake in the newly formed MedPharm, following its merger. Majority ownership of the combined entity will be assumed by private equity firms Ampersand Capital Partners and Bourne Partners Strategic Capital.