CANNULA FOR USE IN DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS

摘要

The present invention provides an improved cannula (22) that can be used to reconstitute powdered drugs in a drug delivery system. Furthermore, the present invention provides a cannula (22) and drug delivery system incorporating same. To this end, the present invention provides a cannula structure for use in a reconstitution of a powdered drug comprising a cannula (22) having a first end (26) and a second end (28), and defining a channel in an interior thereof between the first and second ends (26, 28). The first end (26) is closed and includes a member (27) for piercing a septum (42). The cannula (22) includes at least two slots (50a, 50b) providing fluid communication between the channel and an exterior of the cannula (22). The slots (50a, 50b) are located in juxtaposition to the first end (26) and have a width, as measured along a length of the cannula (22), that is less than a length, as measured around the cannula (22). The slots (50a, 50b) also have a minimum projected area equal to or greater than the cross-sectional area of the channel.