While the replacement of CFC propellants in inhalation systems with hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) less environmentally damaging compounds has obvious benefits, for drug formulators the change has posed some challenges.
One of the most common of these is that in certain HFA formulations active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) can become degraded when they contact the interior surfaces of pressurised metered dose inhaler (pMDI) systems, impacting on their efficacy.
3M’s solution for this is plasma coating. The firm explained that the technique involves applying an ultra-thin film to all solid components of pMDI, thereby protecting the API.
The company, which showcased the technology at the Respiratory Drug Delivery Conference (RDD) held in Portugal last week, said that laboratory analysis had demonstrated a significant decrease in API degradation and deposition.
3M’s valve face seal technology, also launched at RDD is designed to eliminate the need to prime an inhaler by collecting the dose as the inhaler is fired, which is an approach used by traditional pMDI systems.
The firm explained that over-time, priming in traditional systems can become less effective and even result in the delivery of incomplete doses, “which is why patients are advised to prime these inhalers by firing an uninhaled shot before use.
“The 3M Face Seal Valve eliminates the need for this extra step, simplifying the process for patients and making compliance easier. The technology helps ensure patients receive a full dose of medication with every use, including single shot products, resulting in more satisfied patients and prescribers.”