In the world of healthcare, the opioid crisis looms large and adequate patient-centered solutions remain a crucial yet unmet need. Amid the challenge, Vivera has emerged with direct solutions. Cofounded by Paul Edalat in 2018, Vivera was born out of personal tragedy and a mission to put patients first while revolutionizing the healthcare system.
With a focus on safer drug delivery, Vivera is dedicated to improving the healthcare industry for patients, providers, and other stakeholders in the medication supply chain. From their patented smart drug delivery solution and technology, ZICOH, to advancements in prescription medications in the Company’s prescription drug delivery system, TABMELT, Vivera’s ambitious approach has the potential to transform the healthcare landscape for the better.
The Inspiration Behind Vivera
Since his teenage years, the Chairman, Founder, and CEO of Vivera, Mr. Edalat, has had a strong passion for health and wellness. He used his interests and entrepreneurial skills for decades to make a difference in the fast-growing fitness and wellness sectors. However, his priorities shifted when his brother Peter was diagnosed with cancer.
During his brother’s treatment, Mr. Edalat observed the challenges and constraints within the healthcare system, particularly pertaining to how medications were prescribed and administered. His brother was prescribed high doses of opioids to alleviate pain and other side effects from chemotherapy. There weren’t safety measures in place to prevent him from exceeding his prescribed dose. Therefore, as his tolerance to his medication increased, so did his dosage.
As a result, he developed an addiction to his medication before losing his battle with cancer.
“My brother’s passing made me determined to change the healthcare industry in his honor. Since then, I have focused my efforts on creating safer medication delivery systems and putting patients before profits,” said Mr. Edalat.
Shortly after losing his brother, Mr. Edalat sat down with his good friend and now, Vivera’s Chief Scientific Advisor, Mehdi Hatamian, Ph.D. Together, they invented ZICOH, a patented, dose-controlled, smart drug delivery device for prescription medications.
Vivera at a Glance
In the beginning, Vivera set out to create non-addictive pain management solutions through its pharmaceutical and medical device divisions. The Company has grown into several divisions to improve patient care and meet various medical demands.
Vivera Technologies and Vivera Medical Devices are dedicated to creating cutting-edge technology to revolutionize patient care. ZICOH, one of the Company’s flagship products, dispenses precise medication doses and integrates seamlessly with ZICOH ConnectTM, a cloud-based software system that uses artificial intelligence to produce actionable insights for medication adherence, oversight, and compliance.
Vivera BioSciences focuses on developing medications for various conditions using its patented TABMELT technology for sublingual drug delivery.
Vivera Neurosciences is dedicated to investigating and developing therapies for disorders of the central nervous system, such as psychiatric, neurological, and fluency disorders, to enhance the lives of patients and offer better options for healthcare professionals.
Vivera Advanced Diagnostics uses its Lab Information Management System (LIMS), LabPort, to deliver patients quick and reliable diagnostic and wellness test results.
The Company has become a multi-faceted business dedicated to improving patient care and meeting various medical demands.
Overcoming the Hurdles Along the Way
As Vivera paves the way toward patient-centric care, it faces many obstacles. Although the healthcare sector is adapting, there are several entry hurdles and, of course, opposition to change in any industry.
Mr. Edalat disclosed, “We confront various challenges as we develop, create, and market our products in addition to the everyday challenges that come with running a business. I maintain focus by tuning out external distractions and concentrating on our patients and pipeline end goals.”
Prioritizing a Strong Team and Culture
The Company houses a team of dedicated professionals with the right mix of skills and expertise, which is critical for success. A positive work atmosphere, open communication, and team development are essential.
Vivera fosters an inclusive culture that encourages open communication and the exchange of diverse ideas. For creativity and success to occur, diversity and inclusion are essential. The executive team has always acknowledged this and incorporated it into the corporate culture.
“Our team reflects our dedication to diversity and inclusion. We make an effort to hire team members with a variety of experiences, skill sets, and backgrounds. This strategy not only brings new ideas to the table but also aids in our ability to comprehend and better serve the demands of our wide range of patients,” stated Mr. Edalat.
Looking Towards the Future
The Vivera team is enthusiastic about the Company’s sustained growth and potential influence in bettering the healthcare sector. Their primary focus remains on providing top-quality care and making it accessible to patients worldwide.
They plan to improve patient experiences and perhaps even treatment outcomes by concentrating on drug delivery. Their long-term goal entails working with healthcare professionals to ensure cutting-edge products like TABMELT and ZICOH are accessible to every patient who needs them.
Mr. Edalat is adamant about coming up with solutions that prioritize safety and well-being. He has seen the risks associated with prescription medications, especially those with a higher propensity for misuse. The prevalent problem of addiction impacts individuals, families, and entire communities.
Vivera’s pioneering technology, ZICOH, was invented with the goal of reducing prescription medication addiction. Additionally, ZICOH can potentially prevent prescription medications from reaching the wrong hands.
Words of Wisdom
Mr. Edalat claims that having a mentor is crucial for aspiring entrepreneurs. He is grateful for the mentors that he has had throughout his career and always says that “finding someone who has already achieved your goal and can teach you the ins and outs of the industry is invaluable.”
“Seek a good mentor. This person can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights to help you navigate the challenges of starting a business. A mentor can also help you avoid common mistakes, provide practical advice, and give you a fresh perspective on your ideas,” advised Mr. Edalat.
With a passionate team and an unwavering commitment to patient safety and well-being, Vivera is positioned to make a significant impact on the healthcare industry in the years to come. As the Company continues to develop groundbreaking solutions like TABMELT and ZICOH, its aim is to ensure that every patient can access safe and effective treatments and a better quality of life.
“For aspiring entrepreneurs, mentorship and dedication to one’s vision are key ingredients for success,” said Mr. Edalat.
Vivera’s patient-centric journey serves as a powerful testament to the potential of innovation, diversity, and perseverance to bring about transformative change in the world.