Serum Institute Acquires 20% Stake in Needle-Free Injection Tech Firm IntegriMedical

The purpose of this investment is to advance the technology of needle-free injections.

Serum Institute of India (SII), a leading vaccine manufacturer, has acquired a 20% stake in medical device company IntegriMedical. This investment aims to advance needle-free injection technology.

However, the financial details of the deal were not disclosed.

IntegriMedical has developed a needle-free injection system (N-FIS) that uses a high-velocity jet stream to administer drugs and biologics without a needle. This technology targets needle-phobic patients, aiming to increase patient compliance and reduce needle-stick injuries.

Commenting on the same, Adar Poonawalla, CEO, SII, said, "We are constantly seeking opportunities to invest in technologies that align with our mission. IntegriMedical’s Needle-Free Injection Systems represent a significant advancement in drug delivery, and we envision a needle-free solution to deliver vaccines.”

He also added that this technology could change how vaccines are administered globally.

Further, the company’s N-FIS technology has received regulatory approvals from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) in India and CE in Europe, and it is ISO 13485 certified.

The technology offers an alternative to traditional needle-based injections, providing benefits such as enhanced efficacy of liquid medication. A company note stated that the N-FIS would soon be available in the Indian private market, although specific timelines were not provided.

Sharing insights, Sarvesh Mutha, MD, IntegriMedical, said, "SII's investment is a testament to the potential of NFIS technology and its ability to improve drug delivery. SII’s expertise in vaccine manufacturing and global distribution will help make the technology more widely accessible to patients worldwide."

SII's Continued Investments in Healthcare Technology

This move follows SII’s pattern of strategic investments in backend companies. In August 2021, SII bought out the Indian partner in SCHOTT Kaisha, securing supplies of pharma packaging products such as vials, syringes, ampoules, and cartridges for life-saving medications.

IntegriMedical’s N-FIS is patented in the United States and has research centers and manufacturing facilities in the USA, India, and Hong Kong.

The global needle-free injection system market was valued at $12.49 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach $27.65 billion by 2028.

Factors driving this growth include the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, the rising incidence of needle-stick injuries, the growing demand for self-injection devices, expanding vaccination programs, and advancements in product development technology.

The adoption of needle-free technology aligns with global healthcare trends towards improving patient experiences and outcomes. By investing in IntegriMedical, SII is positioning itself at the forefront of these advancements, aiming to offer more patient-friendly and effective drug delivery solutions.

As needle-free injection technology becomes more accessible, it holds the potential to significantly impact how vaccinations and medications are administered, improving compliance and reducing risks associated with needle use.