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A new method to evaluate plume characteristics of hydrofluoroalkane and chlorofluorocarbon metered dose inhalers

B J Gabrio1, S W Stein, D J Velasquez

  • 13M Pharmaceuticals, St. Paul, MN 55144-1000, USA. bjgabrio@mmm.com

International Journal of Pharmaceutics
|September 2, 1999
PubMed

Insights

New metered dose inhaler (MDI) studies reveal that lower spray force and temperature correlate with reduced throat deposition. Actuator orifice diameter significantly impacts MDI plume characteristics, influencing patient experience.

Area of Science:

  • Respiratory Medicine
  • Pharmaceutical Technology
  • Inhalation Device Engineering

Background:

  • Metered dose inhalers (MDIs) are widely used for respiratory drug delivery.
  • Concerns include high throat deposition and the 'cold-Freon' effect impacting patient comfort and efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize the spray force and plume temperature of various MDIs using a novel in vitro method.
  • To investigate the relationship between MDI plume characteristics and throat deposition.

Main Methods:

  • An in vitro study utilizing a new plume characterization technique.
  • Spray force and plume temperature measurements were conducted on 28 marketed MDI products.
  • Analysis included bronchodilators, steroids, press-and-breathe, breath-actuated, and nasal inhalers.

Main Results:

  • Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)-containing MDIs exhibited forceful and cold plumes.
  • Hydrofluoralkane (HFA)-containing MDIs generally produced softer, warmer plumes, though some HFA products were similar to CFCs.
  • Actuator orifice diameter was identified as the primary determinant of spray force, more so than propellant type.

Conclusions:

  • MDIs with lower spray force demonstrate reduced throat deposition.
  • Optimizing actuator orifice diameter is key to mitigating forceful and cold MDI plumes.
  • Findings suggest potential for improved MDI design to enhance patient outcomes.

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