DYNAMIC PARTICLE SIZE CONTROL FOR AEROSOLIZED DRUG DELIVERY

摘要

This invention concerns devices, packaging and methodology for creating aerosols. Devices are hand held, self-contained units (40) which are automatically actuated at the same release point in a patient's inspiratory flow cycle. The release point is calculated by a microprocessor (26) which receives data from a flow sensor (31). The device is loaded with a cassette (46) of individual collapsible containers (1) of a pharmaceutically active drug. Actuation of the device forces the drug through a porous membrane (3) of the container (1) having pores in the range of about 0.25 microns to 6.0 microns. The membrane is flexible such that when the drug formulation is forced against and through the membrane, the membrane protrudes outward beyond the flow boundary layer of a flow path (29).