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Holding chambers for pMDI use
Drugs Under Experimental and Clinical Research
|January 1, 1997
Summary
The new JET spacer for pressurized metered-dose inhalers (pMDI) significantly improves lung drug delivery and reduces deposition in the mouth and stomach. This enhances the therapeutic efficacy of inhaled medications like salbutamol.
Area of Science:
- Respiratory medicine
- Pharmacology
- Medical device engineering
Background:
- Pressurized metered-dose inhalers (pMDI) require spacer devices to improve drug delivery to the lungs.
- Spacer devices slow aerosol jets, reducing oropharyngeal deposition and coordination issues.
- A new, less cumbersome spacer, the JET, was developed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of the new JET spacer in improving lung deposition and reducing extrapulmonary deposition of salbutamol from a pMDI.
- To compare drug delivery with and without the JET spacer in healthy volunteers.
Main Methods:
- Five healthy volunteers inhaled 2 x 100 micrograms doses of 99mTc-labeled salbutamol via pMDI.
- Inhalation was performed using a slow inspiratory vital capacity maneuver.
- Drug delivery was assessed with and without the JET spacer using scintigraphy.
Main Results:
- Lung delivery of salbutamol increased from 14.3% to 22.3% with the JET spacer.
- Extrapulmonary deposition (oropharynx and stomach) decreased from 39.8% to 11.0% with the JET spacer.
- The JET spacer demonstrated a significant improvement in drug delivery efficiency.
Conclusions:
- The JET spacer effectively enhances therapeutic efficacy by increasing lung drug delivery and minimizing deposition in the upper airways and stomach.
- Optimal use of the JET spacer is recommended for improved pMDI therapy.
- Avoidance of holding chambers as reservoirs and frequent cleaning are advised.