Combined efforts

Abstract

Convergence therapies have been defined as "the combination in a single product of device and pharmaceutical and/or biological therapies" and have been referred to as the medical device industry's "most promising opportunity ever" (1). There is no denying that this area holds the potential for delivering major benefits, not just in regard to better treatments, but also significant financial reward to successful developers of combination products. However, before leaping into this space it is important for device companies to recognise the increased technical and commercial challenges that are faced when developing this type of product. How can device companies learn from the experiences of early pioneers in this field, develop a strategy that is able to see past the core science and focus on delivering the full business package necessary for commercial success? This article explores some of the opportunities and challenges (technological, regulatory and marketing) in developing device strategy through to implementation.