#49 - Michael Demurjian, Founder & CEO at Aspargo Laboratories

Transforming Drug Administration: A Patient-Centric Approach

Michael Demurjian founded Aspargo Laboratories to challenge the traditional pill-based drug delivery model. Citing widespread inefficiencies in how medications are absorbed, especially by an aging population often facing conditions like dysphagia, Aspargo focuses on optimizing two critical factors: absorption and adherence.

Innovative Formulations with Tangible Results

At the core of Aspargo’s innovation is a patented suspension technology that reformulates low-soluble drugs into oral sprays. This technology hinges on optimizing particle size, viscosity, and masking agents—leading to significantly faster absorption. For example, their sildenafil spray, HisQ, achieves absorption in just 5 to 10 minutes, even with food, outperforming any existing ED treatment.

Beyond ED: A Platform for Broader Therapeutic Applications

Aspargo’s ambitions extend far beyond erectile dysfunction. They’ve developed an oral spray version of metformin for post-GLP-1 weight maintenance, and an oral finasteride spray targeting hair loss. These lifestyle-focused treatments will launch on a new telehealth platform in July 2025. The broader vision includes applications in oncology, cardiology, and neurology, showcasing the versatility of their drug delivery platform.

Next-Gen Smart Device: Personalizing Patient Care

The company's future lies in its advanced delivery system—dubbed the "companion." This smart dispenser integrates with smartphones to inform users of dosage schedules and connect to a care network including physicians and family. With 24/7 adherence monitoring, real-time feedback, and telehealth integration, it represents a significant leap in digital health management. Notably, privacy-sensitive medications like ED treatments are excluded from automated sharing features, maintaining user discretion.

What’s Next for Aspargo

The coming months are pivotal. Aspargo plans to go public, expand into new European markets, and release additional over-the-counter and prescription products. With 29 patents backing its technologies and a mission to enhance both lifestyle and clinical outcomes, Aspargo is poised to become a major disruptor in pharmaceutical delivery.