Callitas researches and develops alternative ideas to health and wellness

Newport-based startup Callitas Health Inc. has signed a product development and manufacturing agreement with LifeStyles, one of the leading purveyors of condoms and other sexual wellness products.

Callitas, which formed in 2015, develops technologies for both over-the-counter and drug markets, and is currently working on products and technologies in the cannabis sector, weight management, and female health and wellness.

Both companies signed a letter of intent to develop and supply finished goods for retail sale.

The agreement also allows for further research and development and product realization, according to Callitas officials.

Callitas said the first item will launch in March.

Australia-based LifeStyles is the world’s second-largest condom maker and sells other sexual wellness products, including personal lubricants. Callitas officials say they already have a partnership with LifeStyles for the licensing of the Newport firm’s female lubricant brand Excite.

“Callitas is looking forward to continuing our relationship with LifeStyles to bring novel products to market,” says Joshua Maurice, director of sales and marketing for Callitas.

“LifeStyles has worldwide brand recognition and partnering with them will be a huge opportunity for our company to expand our innovative ideas.”

The company also announced that it has signed a letter of intent with NuEthix, LLC to manufacture and supply its CannaStrip products for retail sale in the United States. CannaStrips are thin films containing cannabidiol that deliver their product when placed under the tongue.

NuEthix is a Cincinnati-based supplement company that currently maintains a portfolio of 10 products.

James M. Thompson, CEO of Callitas, says the agreement is “one more step toward making Callitas a stronger player in the rapidly expanding cannabinoid market.”

Stephaney Theobald, co-owner and chief financial officer of NuEthix says, “We have a passion for helping others and our main goal is to help them feel better. This new product will allow us to provide another avenue to accomplish this.”