Inhale Therapeutic Systems, Inc.

Novartis Pharma Ag

Herman Snyder

Adrian Edward Smith

Carlos A Schuler

John D Burr

George S Axford

Randy Kent Hall

Charles Ray

Robert M Platz

Thomas K Brewer

David B Bennett

The present invention provides exemplary systems and methods for producing dry powder formulations. In one embodiment, a system () includes at least one conditioning zone () having an inlet () to introduce an atomized formulation () into the conditioning zone. A controller () controls temperature and relative humidity of the airflow into the conditioning zone to allow amorphous-to-crystalline transformation of the atomized formulation. In another embodiment, the formulation is suspended in the conditioning zone for a residence time of sufficient duration to allow surface orientation of surface active components. A dryer () is coupled to the conditioning zone to dry the atomized formulation, and a collector () collects the formulation in powder form.

Spray drying process control of drying kinetics

The invention provides various apparatus and methods for aerosolizing a powdered medicament. In one exemplary embodiment, an apparatus includes a pressurization cylinder, and a piston which is slidable within the cylinder to pressurize a gas. A handle is coupled to the piston and is movable between an extended position and a home position to pressurize the gas. An aerosolizing mechanism is included and is configured to aerosolize a powdered medicament that is held within a receptacle with pressurized gas from the cylinder. A carriage assembly is included to receive the receptacle and to couple the receptacle to the aerosolizing mechanism. A first and a second interlock are operably engageable with the carriage assembly to prevent coupling of the receptacle with the aerosolization mechanism. The first interlock is released to allow movement of the carriage upon movement of the handle to the extended position. The second interlock remains engaged if the receptacle is only partially inserted into the carriage assembly.

Dry powder dispersing apparatus and methods for their use

Growing community of inventors

Belmont, CA, United States of America

Herman Snyder