Summary Box: Pfizer considers selling Capsugel as it continues tweaking business strategy

Summary Box: Pfizer considers selling Capsugel

THE DEAL: Pfizer Inc. is reviewing strategic alternatives — including a possible sale — for its Capsugel business unit, which makes capsules for oral medicines and dietary supplements.

BACKGROUND: The company has cut costs by eliminating jobs and selling facilities since it bought Wyeth for $68 billion last October. The Capsugel business generated $740 million in revenue in 2009, a fraction of Pfizer’s $50 billion overall revenue. Pfizer said Capsugel has strong potential for growth outside of Pfizer.

THE APPEAL: Capsugel makes hard gelatin, liquid-filled and vegetarian capsules. It also helps formulate liquid medicines and provides equipment for research labs to fill capsules.