Ascent Pediatrics

Ascent Pediatrics was a specialty pharmaceutical company dedicated to the development and commercialization of prescription products for the pediatric market. Founded in 1989 and based in Wilmington, Massachusetts, the company focused on improving treatments for common pediatric conditions such as asthma, infections, and allergies. Its flagship product was Orapred (prednisolone sodium phosphate), a liquid corticosteroid designed for better palatability and compliance in children. Ascent was acquired by Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation in 2001 and subsequently sold to BioMarin Pharmaceutical in 2004 to serve as the foundation for BioMarin's commercial pediatric infrastructure. The company's portfolio also included Primsol for ear infections and various respiratory treatments. It was recognized for its expertise in pediatric drug delivery and taste-masking technologies.