Abstract

Implementation of Flow Chemistry in Exploratory Drug Development

Bryan Li, Associate Research Fellow, Pfizer Pharmaceutical Science

Continuous flow technology offers many advantages over batch methods including precise control of stoichiometry, reaction time and temperature, high reproducibility, and often better reaction profile.  The much higher surface to volume ratio renders highly efficient heat transfer.  Which, coupled with much smaller volume in the reaction train, minimizes safety hazards in handling exothermic reactions associated with explosive intermediates.   While flow chemistry has been used widely in the fine chemicals arena, it has not been widely adopted in the pharmaceutical industry, especially in the early development stage. Traditionally, flow equipments have been designed to support a single product, operating 24-7 and offers best economics.  Flow chemistry in the pre-POC (proof of concept) portfolio is driven by speed and is very dynamic, therefore must offer flexibility in day to day operations. Flow rigs need to be designed as “plug and play” modules to support the volume and variety of chemistry in the exploratory drug development.  This presentation will discuss efforts and examples how flow technology is implemented in Pfizer’s exploratory development stage.