In the past three decades, different types of pulmonary administration devices evolved: nebulizers (jet or ultrasonic), metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) and dry powder inhalers (DPIs). They diversified rapidly into a huge variety of different concepts with specific pros and cons for a large number of different inhaled drugs.

Because the Montreal Protocol (1987) on substances that deplete the ozone layer, the development of DPIs was particularly stimulated. Since then there is an increased awareness that DPIs may have the best potential for several new areas of interest for pulmonary administration. Furthermore there is an increasing interest in the development of DPIs not only for the treatment of lung diseases but also for systemic applications.

During the development of DPIs a lot of attention is usually devoted to active ingredient(s), formulation and device. Too often, key aspects of the manufacturing process, as powder filling, are neglected until the developers realize that a poor filling process has a relevant impact on inhalation performances.

Different dosing technologies are available. Therefore every developer should know which are advantages and disadvantages of each technology for his own product. Beside there are a number of different parameters that must be kept under control to assure a stable and robust manufacturing process.

Particle engineering technologies as spray drying are fundamental to create the best carrier free powder able to fly into lungs but we must not forget that this powder must be dosed then.

Next June 25, during Harro Höfliger Innovation Expo, Stefano Console will provide his point of view on why DPIs are important and which are the considerations that should drive the development steps of new carrier free DPIs.

Innovation Expo 2019 offers two days full of top-notch presentations, technological highlights and networking opportunities. “Lighting up your way“ – from laboratory to production. Together we will explore the new possibilities available to you!

For more details please visit Harro Höfliger Innovation Expo 2019