Press release

Kaiseraugst (Switzerland), Heerlen (The Netherlands), April 3, 2024

dsm-firmenich, has announced a new strategic collaboration with Oz Medicann Group (OMG) Pharma – an Australian-based biotech innovator in the cannabinoid medicines domain – to explore the therapeutic potential of cannabidiol (CBD)-based orally dispersible tablets addressing insomnia. Leveraging dsm-firmenich’s high quality GMP CBD active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) and leading-edge formulation capabilities, chiefly its bioavailability expertise, the wide-ranging collaboration will help to advance the next phase of OMG Pharma’s clinical trials. The collaboration not only strengthens dsm-firmenich’s status as an end-to-end partner in the cannabinoid research and development space and showcases its commitment to patient-focused innovation, but could also lead to the launch of the world’s first regulatory-approved over-the-counter CBD sleep medication, spearheaded by OMG Pharma. 

A new era in CBD drug delivery 

Orally dispersible tablets represent an innovative solid oral drug format for CBD delivery. Administered under the tongue, they bypass first-pass metabolism, facilitating rapid absorption and ease of use for patients. This makes orally dispersible tablets an appealing solution for patients who have difficulty swallowing, and for the treatment of health conditions where immediate effects are needed, like insomnia and other sleep disorders.

Athanasia Kanli, Global Market Development Manager Pharma at dsm-firmenich, explains the significance of dsm-firmenich’s new strategic collaboration with OMG Pharma to advance drug delivery in the expanding CBD landscape: "We see orally dispersible tablets revolutionizing CBD-based therapies for patients, considering the predominance of (usually unpleasant) liquid formats. dsm-firmenich is uniquely positioned to drive innovation in CBD-based drug formulation intentionally developed to meet more patient-friendly drug formats. Our reason for partnering with OMG Pharma is their fervent dedication to groundbreaking research in novel cannabinoid medicine, which perfectly complements our commitment to delivering science-driven solutions that address unmet patient needs. We were impressed by the strides OMG Pharma has already taken in the fields of sleep and anxiety and their rich pharmaceutical pipeline for cannabinoids. OMG Pharma’s unwavering commitment to pharmaceutical grade quality sets them apart in the medical cannabis world and we have agreed to collaborate on multiple fronts going forward with the aim to push the boundaries of CBD innovation together."

CBD under the microscope in OMG Pharma clinical trials 

John Leith, Founder of OMG, emphasizes the importance of partnering with dsm-firmenich, highlighting a shared vision to drive patient-centered healthcare in a science-led way. “It’s an exciting time for CBD research, and while we’ve made remarkable progress alone, we recognized that we needed a strategic partner to refine our drug formulation for orally dispersible tablets in order to elevate patient convenience. Beyond dsm-firmenich’s trusted CBD API portfolio, it was its comprehensive formulation support, global regulatory expertise and clinical proficiency that truly set them apart. We are excited to be one of the first in the world to have the novel formulated CBD that dsm-firmenich has developed with a view to enhancing CBD absorption in the body. With this innovation, and their team’s help, we’re aiming to optimize CBD absorption in our tablets, addressing one of the most critical challenges in cannabinoid medicines – bioavailability.”

As the partnership progresses, it is poised to transform the delivery of cannabis medicines, including for sleep, anxiety and many disorders, driving meaningful advancements in patient care. 

Powered by and end-to-end innovation platform

The collaboration is powered by dsm-firmenich and Brains Bioceutical, manufacturer of high-quality pharma-grade cannabinoids, unique end-to-end innovation platform designed for early-stage cannabinoid drug development. For more information, or to find out how dsm-firmenich is helping to develop purpose-led cannabinoid pharmaceuticals that enrich patients’ lives, visit our Cannabinoid Actives page.

About OMG Pharma 

OMG Pharma is an Australian medical cannabis, hemp and CBD therapeutics company driving innovation and product development for consumers and patients worldwide. At the heart of OMG Pharma's mission is a dedication to science and evidence-based medical solutions. For more information, visit: https://www.OMGPharma.com.au

About dsm-firmenich

As innovators in nutrition, health, and beauty, dsm-firmenich reinvents, manufactures, and combines vital nutrients, flavors, and fragrances for the world’s growing population to thrive. With our comprehensive range of solutions, with natural and renewable ingredients and renowned science and technology capabilities, we work to create what is essential for life, desirable for consumers, and more sustainable for the planet. dsm-firmenich is a Swiss-Dutch company, listed on the Euronext Amsterdam, with operations in almost 60 countries and revenues of more than €12 billion. With a diverse, worldwide team of nearly 30,000 employees, we bring progress to life™ every day, everywhere, for billions of people. www.dsm-firmenich.com