Leading distributor of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies Cardinal Health (CAH) recently revealed the commercialization of its latest Protexis Latex Hydrogel surgical gloves, which are powder-free, sterile latex surgical gloves with a coating of hydrogel.
The company has given the brand name, Protexis, to its range of surgical gloves. According to Cardinal Health, its latest Protexis brand reflects its commitment to bring to market expertise and protection that clinicians can depend upon.
The Protexis Latex Hydrogel surgical gloves are manufactured from natural rubber latex and are devoid of powder. They come with a coating which makes them easier to wear. Hydrogel (or acrylic hydrogel polymer) is a hydrophilic layer that is chemically adhered to the inside of the glove. This substance imparts better lubrication that permits a comfortable wear. In other words, the surgical gloves are capable of easy gliding, in wet or dry state. These gloves come in a translucent yellow color.
With the Protexis line of gloves, the company will transfer its pre-existing and powder–free brands (Esteem, Protegrity, Duraprene and Ultrafree) to a unified brand. The fresh brand provides a simplified nomenclature, which communicates the substance from which the gloves are manufactured.
The Protexis powder-free surgical glove line-up utilizes a proprietary mold, including an independent design for the thumb, which allows natural movement of the hand. Its beaded and interlocking cuff design cuts down on roll-down of the gloves.
The brand will be rolled out later in September 2011 with the commercialization of Protexis Latex Hydrogel surgical gloves. Other powder-free gloves will be transferred to the Protexis name in 2012. Additional information about these gloves may be obtained from the company.
Cardinal remains one of the largest distributors of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies in the U.S., with a diversified product portfolio, which may partly insulate it from the current economic uncertainty. The company stands to gain from the gradual shift in mix from the bulk to the higher-margin non-bulk sector of the Pharmaceutical segment. It is also riding the generic wave. Overall, Cardinal is benefiting from a spate of tuck-in acquisitions and capital deployment strategies.
However, the company faces tough competition across all its business segments, which may continue to pressure pricing and margins. Its major competitors in the pharmaceutical supply chain segment include McKesson Corp. (MCK) and AmerisourceBergen Corp. (ABC). We currently have an Outperform rating on Cardinal.
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