CCL's 'soft plume' inhaler technology

A new low-cost inhaler concept designed to enhance drug deposition to the lungs has been developed by UK-based Cambridge Consultants (CCL). Soft Plume uses complex aerodynamics to create a plume effect by reducing the spray velocity, effectively delivering a gentle mist to the lungs.

The device can be manufactured using simple plastic moulding techniques, resulting in a predicted manufactured cost of only 18 pence (approx €0.27). Although a low velocity inhaler device already exists on the market, the CCL design is said to be almost 10 times cheaper to manufacture and does not require battery power to operate. CCL's Soft Plume concept has the added benefit of using standard MDI canisters, and has a built-in dose counter.

The plume from the new inhaler travels at less than 1m/s compared with more than 50m/s for a conventional metered dose inhaler. This means there is less need for the patient to co-ordinate depressing the canister and inhaling at the same time, thereby making the device particularly beneficial to children, the elderly and those less dextrous.

CCL's concept has been shown to reduce oropharyngeal deposition to less than 16%, compared with approximately 80% in most current 'press and breath' inhalers. Significantly reduced deposition will benefit the pulmonary delivery of the new stream of high toxicity compounds emerging on the market.

CCL has developed a reputation in the inhaler industry for delivering solutions to pharmaceutical and biotech companies that meet strict regulatory guidelines and, moreover, encourage patient acceptability and therefore compliance,' said Jon Tuckwell, head of CCL's drug delivery group. 'By developing a true low cost solution, we can help companies keep cost per unit to a minimum.'