What is a notable strength of pharmaceutical companies compared to biotech companies?

Pharmaceutical companies are often recognized for their higher levels of chemical expertise. This is largely due to their extensive history in the development and manufacturing of small molecule drugs, which require a deep understanding of chemistry and related fields. The experience gained from years in the industry has provided these companies with a vast repository of knowledge, techniques, and processes that involve the synthesis, formulation, and testing of chemical compounds.

In contrast, biotechnology companies tend to focus more on biological processes and utilize living organisms to develop products, which may not require the same level of chemical expertise. While biotech has grown significantly and has its own specialized knowledge base, the established pharmaceutical sector generally has a broader and more profound foundation in chemical science—making it a notable strength in comparison. This chemical expertise is crucial for various aspects of drug development, including optimizing formulation, ensuring stability, and complying with regulatory standards throughout the drug development lifecycle.