For modified release manufacturing capabilities, see our modified release services. For analytical and microbiological services across the network, explore our analytical and microbiological services.
NextPharma’s Bielefeld site, operating as PHARBIL Pharma GmbH, is the group’s centre of excellence for modified release pellet manufacturing, with particular depth in controlled release, gastro-resistance and taste masking technologies. With our quality control (QC) laboratory, our Bielefeld site combines development depth with commercial-scale throughput.
If you are evaluating a European CDMO for modified release or pellet-based dosage forms, discover NextPharma Bielefeld’s core capabilities, regulatory status, facility details, and how to start a conversation with the team.
The Bielefeld site has been part of the NextPharma Group since 2000 and is purpose-built for the development and commercial manufacture and packaging of pellet-based dosage forms.
Our annual capacities include approximately 6,000 QC batches with around 300 validated methods. Our core technology platform covers pellet production by extrusion and spheronisation, combined with film coating and layering of pellets in both aqueous and organic processes, in the following core dosage forms:
Tableted pellets
Our analytical services are available to our customers as an integrated or standalone service and include UHPLC, HPLC (DAD, FL, RI), GC (liquid, headspace, trap unit, FID), and dissolution testing across USP methods 1 to 3 (online and offline). A dedicated team covers formulation development, analytical development, clinical batches, scale-up and tech transfer, supporting programmes from early formulation through to commercial manufacture.
Controlled release: Aqueous and organic film coating for controlled and modified release profiles (available solvents: ethanol, isopropanol and acetone)
Gastro-resistance: Enteric coating of pellets for delayed release
Taste masking: Coating of pellets and granules for palatability
Encapsulation: Pellets, granules, tablets-in-capsule, including double filling
Stick pack packaging: Stick pack lines with secondary packaging
Blister packaging: With secondary packaging
Analytical services: Method development, validation and transfer
Stability studies: Dedicated storage at a unique range of temperature and humidity conditions
For modified release manufacturing capabilities, see our modified release services. For analytical and microbiological services across the network, explore our analytical and microbiological services.
Production at NextPharma Bielefeld operates under EU GMP requirements. Analytical services are FDA approved. The site holds ISO 50001 energy management certification and has passed SEDEX and PSCI audits.
The Bielefeld site covers 14,800 m² of land with 3,400 m² of GMP manufacturing area, 1,000 m² of QC laboratory, 300 m² of dedicated stability storage, 1,700 m² of administration space, and warehousing supporting 2,100 pallet places across 3,200 m². A new extrusion-spheronisation line will be installed in 2026.
We have capacity to expand production and packaging by adding new lines, with significant warehouse space convertible into production area. We are open to installing clients’ equipment in our facilities or building dedicated production areas where a project requires it. For an overview of all our sites, visit the NextPharma locations hub.
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