Les systèmes d'inhalation en 2006

Abstract: Aerosol delivery systems have progressed considerably in recent years. Soon, only hydrofluoroalkane-134a will be used as propellant in pressurized metered-dose inhalers. Some of them are now equipped with a dose counter. New mechanical and electrostatic devices will soon be available. A large variety of inhalation chambers is also becoming available; now, even a vertical one exists. The challenge for manufacturers of dry powder inhalers is to design devices that deliver the powder directly into the airways, thereby reducing the patient''s need for inspiratory effort; they are working actively on the formulation and production of such devices. Small, silent membrane-vibrating nebulizers with rapid delivery are becoming available. Other devices are being designed to control the patient''s respiration totally during nebulization; when used with inhaled fibrous aerosol particles, these devices may be the ideal aerosol delivery systems with optimal efficacy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]