U.S. patent application number 09/999549 was filed with the patent office on 2002-10-24 for injection systems.
Invention is credited to Dimeglio, Ciro, Gonnelli, Robert R., Lipson, David, Nishtala, Vasu.
Application Number | 20020156418 09/999549 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27500354 |
Filed Date | 2002-10-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020156418 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gonnelli, Robert R. ; et
al. |
October 24, 2002 |
Injection systems
Abstract
Injection systems and devices that can be used in injection
systems are disclosed.
Inventors: |
Gonnelli, Robert R.;
(Mahwah, NJ) ; Lipson, David; (No. Andover,
MA) ; Nishtala, Vasu; (Westford, MA) ;
Dimeglio, Ciro; (Shrewsbury, MA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
P. LOUIS MYERS
Fish & Richardson P.C.
225 Franklin Street
Boston
MA
02110-2804
US
|
Family ID: |
27500354 |
Appl. No.: |
09/999549 |
Filed: |
November 30, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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60250410 |
Nov 30, 2000 |
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60250425 |
Nov 30, 2000 |
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60250537 |
Nov 30, 2000 |
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60250573 |
Nov 30, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
604/69 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 5/2459 20130101;
A61M 5/484 20130101; A61M 5/46 20130101; A61M 5/2046 20130101; A61M
5/2066 20130101; A61M 5/30 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
604/69 |
International
Class: |
A61M 005/30 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An injection system, comprising: an injector defining a first
cavity in fluid communication with an orifice configured for
needleless injection; a movable member in the first cavity, the
movable member defining a second cavity; and a charge in the second
cavity.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the second cavity is at a
proximal end of the movable member.
3. The system of claim 1, further comprising an electrically
conductive member extending at least partially across the charge,
the electrically conductive member capable of being in electrical
communication with a power source.
4. The system of claim 1, further comprising a power unit
connectable to the injector.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein the power unit comprises a
battery.
6. The system of claim 1, further comprising a membrane at least
partially extending across an opening of the second cavity.
7. The system of claim 1, further comprising a first electrically
conductive portion connected to the movable member.
8. The system of claim 7, further comprising a second electrically
conductive portion extending through the injector, the second
electrically conductive portion in electrical communication with
the first electrically conductive portion and capable of being in
electrical communication with a power source.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein the charge comprises at least two
discrete materials.
10. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least two discrete
materials have different combustion characteristics.
11. The system of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the
injector is disposable.
12. The system of claim 4, wherein the power unit is reusable.
13. The system of claim 1, wherein the injector comprises a
needleless injector.
14. The system of claim 1, wherein the moveable member comprises a
piston.
15. A method of injection, comprising: activating a charge in a
movable member disposed in an injector defining an orifice
configured for needleless injection.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein activating the charge includes
flowing electrical current through the charge.
17. The method of claim 15, wherein the charge is disposed in a
cavity defined by the movable member.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein the cavity is formed at a
proximal end of the movable member.
19. The method of claim 15, wherein the charge comprises at least
two discrete materials.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the at least two discrete
materials have different combustion characteristics.
Description
CLAIM OF PRIORITY
[0001] This application claims priority under 35 USC .sctn.119(e)
to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial Nos. 60/250,410;
60/250,425; 60/250,537; and 60/250,573, all filed on Nov. 30, 2000,
and all entitled "Injection Devices", the entire contents of which
are all hereby incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates to injection systems and devices that
can be used in injection systems.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Injection devices can be used for injecting fluids, such as
drugs, into a body. Some injection devices, such as needleless
injection devices, inject fluids by delivering the fluids at a
pressure sufficient to create and to sustain in the body an opening
through which the fluids are delivered. A needleless injection
device can generate sufficient pressure, for example, by using a
compressed gas or a propellant that generates a gas.
SUMMARY
[0004] The invention relates to injection systems and devices that
can be used in injection systems.
[0005] In one aspect, the invention features an injection system
including an injector defining a first cavity in fluid
communication with an orifice configured for needleless injection,
and a housing inside the injector and defining a second cavity, the
housing different than the injector, wherein the injection system
is configured to transfer a fluid from the second cavity to the
first cavity.
[0006] Embodiments include one or more of the following features.
The injector is formed of a first material, e.g., a polymer, and
the housing is formed of a second material, e.g., a glass,
different than the first material. The system further includes a
first movable member between the first cavity and the second
cavity. The first movable member defines a lumen. The system
further includes a second movable member between the first movable
member and the second cavity.
[0007] The first movable member can be configured to engage with
the second movable member such that the first cavity is in fluid
communication with the second cavity. The first movable member can
be configured to be substantially stationary until the first
movable member is moved by a propellant of the injection system.
The first movable member can include a tab configured to separate
from the first movable member at a predetermined force. The tab can
engage with the injector.
[0008] The injector and the housing can be substantially
coaxial.
[0009] The second cavity can be defined by the housing and two
movable members. The second cavity can be defined by the housing
and a movable member. The movable member can be formed of two
different materials The movable member can include a rubber.
[0010] The system can further include an injector cap connectable
to the injector, the injector cap configured to move distally to
transfer the fluid from the second cavity to the first cavity. The
injector cap can be connectable to the injector by a threaded
connection.
[0011] The system can further include a charge cup in the injector.
The system can further include a charge in the charge cup. The
charge can include at least two discrete materials, which can have
different combustion characteristics.
[0012] In another aspect, the invention features a method including
providing an injection system having an injector defining a first
cavity in fluid communication with an orifice configured for
needleless injection, and a housing inside the injector and
defining a second cavity, the housing being different than the
injector, and reducing the volume of the second cavity to transfer
a fluid from the second cavity to the first cavity.
[0013] Embodiments include one or more of the following features.
The method further includes flowing the fluid through a movable
member between the first and second cavities. The method further
includes piercing a member between the first and second cavities.
The injection system further includes an injector cap connectable
to the injector, and reducing the volume comprises moving the
injector cap toward the orifice. Moving the injector cap can
include twisting the injector cap. The method can further include
moving the fluid through the orifice charge.
[0014] The charge can include at least two discrete materials. The
at least two discrete materials can have different combustion
characteristics.
[0015] In another aspect, the invention features an injection
system including an injector defining a first cavity in fluid
communication with an orifice configured for needleless injection,
a movable member in the first cavity, the movable member defining a
second cavity, and a charge in the second cavity.
[0016] Embodiments include one or more of the following features.
The second cavity is at a proximal end of the movable member. The
system further includes an electrically conductive member extending
at least partially across the charge, the electrically conductive
member capable of being in electrical communication with a power
source. The system further includes a power unit connectable to the
injector. The power unit includes a battery.
[0017] The system can further include a membrane at least partially
extending across an opening of the second cavity. The system can
further include a first electrically conductive portion connected
to the movable member. The system can further include a second
electrically conductive portion extending through the injector, the
second electrically conductive portion in electrical communication
with the first electrically conductive portion and capable of being
in electrical communication with a power source.
[0018] The charge can include at least two discrete materials. The
at least two discrete materials can have different combustion
characteristics.
[0019] At least a portion of the injector can be disposable.
[0020] The power unit can be reusable.
[0021] The injector can include a needleless injector.
[0022] The moveable member can include a piston.
[0023] In another aspect, the invention features a method of
injection including activating a charge in a movable member
disposed in an injector defining an orifice configured for
needleless injection.
[0024] Embodiments include one or more of the following features.
Activating the charge includes flowing electrical current through
the charge. The charge is disposed in a cavity defined by the
movable member. The cavity is formed at a proximal end of the
movable member. The charge includes at least two discrete
materials, which can have different combustion characteristics.
[0025] In another aspect, the invention features an injection
device including an injector defining a first cavity and an
orifice, a movable member in the first cavity, a housing defining a
second cavity proximal of the movable member, and a charge in the
second cavity, the charge including at least two discrete
materials.
[0026] Embodiments include one or more of the following features.
The discrete materials have different combustion characteristics.
The charge includes at least two layers of materials, which can be
adjacent each other. The charge includes at least one trigger. The
charge includes at least one propellant. The charge includes at
least one passive decay material. The charge can be electrically
activated.
[0027] The device can further include an electrically conductive
member at least partially extending across the charge.
[0028] The movable member and the housing can be integrally
formed.
[0029] The device can be configured for needleless injection.
[0030] The device can include a needleless injector.
[0031] In another aspect, the invention features a method including
igniting a charge in an injector having an orifice so that a fluid
in a cavity in the injector is ejected out of the cavity, wherein
the charge includes at least two discrete materials.
[0032] Embodiments include one or more of the following features.
The injector orifice is configured for needleless injection. The
injector includes a needleless injector. The method further
includes selecting the at least two discrete materials so that the
fluid is ejected from the cavity in a predetermined fashion.
[0033] Embodiments can include one or more of the following
advantages. The injection systems include injector devices that are
resistant to stresses from internal injection pressures produced in
the devices. Therefore, the risk of an unreliable injection and/or
the risk of danger to the user can be minimized. In embodiments,
the injection pressures are transmitted directly to a member, e.g.,
a piston, expelling the fluids such that the fluids are injected
predictably, e.g., few, if any, no harmonics in an injection
pressure curve.
[0034] In embodiments, the injection devices contain injectable
fluids in a housing that is relatively inert to the injectable
fluids. For example, the housing can be made of standard,
pharmacologically-acceptable materials, such as glass or a polymer.
Therefore, the fluids can be maintained efficacious and be
delivered safely and effectively.
[0035] The injection devices feature a modular, self-contained
configuration having a compact, low profile. The injection devices
are also easy-to-use, relatively low cost to manufacture, and
disposable.
[0036] In some embodiments, the injection systems feature an
injectable material housing having a relatively small diameter,
which can provide for efficient filling during production, e.g., by
allowing more housings to be placed in a manufacturing tray. The
design of the housing can also provide a mechanical advantage so
that the device is relatively easy to use.
[0037] Embodiments involving a multi-stage charge can exhibit any
of numerous advantages. As an example, multiple pyrotechnic
materials with different burning characteristics can be used in
numerous combinations (sequence, stoichiometry, charge shape,
particle shape and size, etc) to provide a desired pressure
profile. As another example, the thrust and performance of the
charge can be stable and predictable. As a further example, the
charge can be relatively leak-proof, simple and inexpensive. As an
additional example, the charge can be relatively insensitive to
external temperatures. As another example, the charge has a
relatively long shelf life.
[0038] In some embodiments, the injection devices include an
injector that is resistant to stresses from an internal injection
pressure produced in the devices. Therefore, the risk of an
unreliable injection and/or the risk of danger to the user can be
minimized. In some embodiments, the injection pressure is
transmitted directly to a member expelling the fluids, e.g., a
piston, such that the fluids are injected predictably, e.g., having
no harmonics in an injection pressure curve.
[0039] In some embodiments, the injection devices contain
injectable fluids in a housing that is relatively inert to the
injectable fluids. For example, the housing can be made of
standard, pharmacologically-accep- table materials, such as glass
or a polymer. Therefore, the fluids can be maintained efficacious
and be delivered safely and effectively.
[0040] The injection devices feature a modular, self-contained
configuration having a compact, low profile. The injection devices
are also easy-to-use, relatively low cost to manufacture, and
disposable.
[0041] In some embodiments, the injection devices feature an
injectable material housing having a relatively small diameter,
which can provide for efficient filling during production, e.g., by
allowing more housings to be placed in a manufacturing tray. The
design of the housing can also provide a mechanical advantage so
that the device is relatively easy to use.
[0042] In general, the invention features an injection device. The
device includes: a first housing formed of a first material and
configured to house an injectable material; a second housing
defining an orifice, which is preferably configured for needleless
injections, the second housing formed of a second material
different than the first material, the first and second housings
configured to mate together wherein the first housing is capable of
transferring the injectable material to the second housing,
preferably through the orifice that will be used for injection; and
a propellant in the second housing, the propellant, e.g., a
chemical propellant, configured to displace the injectable material
through the orifice and out of the second housing.
[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the injectable material is
delivered to the injector by way of the orifice, which is the same
orifice used to inject or to deliver the injectable material.
[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the device includes a first
housing having an injectable material and a second housing having a
propellant, e.g., a chemical propellant. The first housing can be
configured such that it is detached or left attached to the second
housing prior to injection. The second housing can be proximal to
the first housing when used. In a preferred embodiment, the
housings are configured such that, upon mating, a slidable member,
e.g., a piston or a stopper, of the first housing can be displaced,
e.g., in the direction of the second housing, to transfer
injectable material from the first housing to the second housing.
The second housing can be configured such that it slides into the
first housing. In other embodiments, the device includes a third
member that displaces a moveable element of the first housing,
e.g., the third housing can slide into or over the first
housing.
[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the second material: is more
break-resistant than the first material; comprises a material that
breaks non-catastrophically; comprises a polymer, e.g.,
polycarbonate.
[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the first material is chemically
inert to the injectable material over a shelf life of the
injectable material, e.g., a glass or a polymer.
[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the propellant comprises a
chemical pyrotechnic material. The propellant can be disposed on a
moveable element, e.g., in a movable sleeve. This allows the
moveable element to be displaced from a first position before
injection to a second position after injection.
[0048] The second housing can comprise a bypass portion and/or a
lyophilized material, e.g., a protein, in the second housing. The
second housing further can define a bypass channel configured for
transferring the injectable material from the first housing to the
second housing.
[0049] The first housing can comprise two members comprising a
resilient and/or compressible material, e.g., butylene rubber and
the injectable material can be housed between the members.
[0050] The first and second housings can be configured to transfer
and/or to deliver the injectable material through the orifice.
[0051] In another aspect, the invention features an injection
device, comprising: a first housing formed of a first material,
e.g., a polymer such as polycarbonate, and defining an orifice
configured for needleless injection; a second housing formed of a
second material, e.g., glass, different than the first material and
configured to house an injectable material, the second housing
further configured to mate with the first housing and to transfer
the injectable material to the first housing; and a third housing
configured to mate with the second housing and to generate a
pressure in the first housing.
[0052] Embodiments may include one or more of the following
features. The first material comprises polycarbonate. The first
housing defines a bypass channel configured to transfer the
injectable material from the second housing to the first housing.
The injection device further comprises a lyophilized material
contained in the first housing. The second housing comprises an
outer member formed of a third material that can be different than
the second material. The third material comprises polycarbonate.
The second housing comprises a resilient material, e.g., a butylene
rubber member. The third housing comprises a chemical pyrotechnic
material configured to generate the pressure in the first housing.
The third housing comprises a movable piston. The third housing
comprises a member extending from an end of the third housing to
the first housing when the first, second and third housings are
fully mated, and the member comprises a movable piston and a
chemical pyrotechnic material.
[0053] In another aspect, the invention features a method of using
an injection device, the method comprising: transferring an
injectable material from a first housing formed of a first material
to a second housing formed of a second material, the second
material being different than the first material; and injecting the
injectable material by producing a pyrotechnic reaction in the
second housing.
[0054] Embodiments may include one or more of the following
features. Transferring the injectable material comprises engaging
the second housing with the first housing. The method further
comprises disengaging the first housing from the second housing.
Transferring the injectable material comprises flowing the
injectable material through a bypass channel.
[0055] In another aspect, the invention features an injector,
comprising: a housing having a distal end and a proximal end, the
housing defining an orifice configured for needleless injection at
the distal end; a movable member in the housing; and a propellant
assembly configured to mate with the proximal end of the housing,
wherein the injector is configured to receive an injectable
material through the orifice.
[0056] Embodiments may include one or more of the following
features. The housing is configured to mate with a second housing
containing the injectable material from the distal end of the
housing. The housing is formed of a material comprising
polycarbonate. The housing further defines a bypass channel. The
propellant assembly is configured to propel a second movable member
using a pyrotechnic reaction. The movable member is adjacent to the
second movable member.
[0057] In yet another aspect, the invention features housing,
comprising: a vial having a first end and a second end; a first
stopper disposed at the first end; and a second stopper disposed at
the second end, wherein the vial and the first and second stoppers
are configured to house an injectable material. The second stopper
is configured to be movable in the vial under an applied
pressure.
[0058] Embodiments may include one or more of the following
features. The vial is formed of a glass. The first and second
stoppers, e.g., formed of a butylene rubber, are configured to be
engageable. The first and/or second stopper comprises a breakable
seal.
[0059] In yet another aspect, the invention features an injection
device, comprising: a first housing formed of a first material and
defining an orifice, the first housing having a propellant,
preferably a chemical propellant, therein; a second housing formed
of a second material different than the first material and
configured to house an injectable material, the second housing
having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is
engageable with the orifice; and a member configured to be
engageable with the second end, wherein, when the first and second
housings are engaged and the second housing and the member are
engaged, the device is configured to transfer the injectable
material from the second housing through the orifice to the first
housing, and the propellant, e.g., a chemical propellant, is
configured to displace the injectable material from the first
housing through the orifice.
[0060] Embodiments may contain one or more of the following
features. The orifice is configured for needleless injection. The
first end comprises a hollow pin. The first end comprises a
butylene member affixed to the first end of the second housing. The
second end comprises a member moveable within the second housing.
The member composes a sleeve having a closed end, the member
extending from the closed end.
[0061] In another aspect, the invention features a method of using
an injection device, the method comprising: providing the injection
device comprising: a first housing formed of a first material and
defining an orifice, the first housing having a propellant therein;
a second housing formed of a second material different than the
first material and configured to house an injectable material, the
second housing having a first end and a second end, wherein the
first end is engageable with the orifice; and a member configured
to be engageable with the second end; engaging the member with the
second end; engaging the orifice with the first end; and moving the
second housing and the member together, wherein the injectable
material can be transferred from the second housing to the first
housing.
[0062] Embodiments may contain one or more of the following
features. Engaging the orifice with the first end comprises
breaking a seal. The first end comprises a resilient material,
e.g., a butylene member having a hollow pin, and engaging the
orifice with the first end comprises moving the pin to break a seal
on the butylene member. The member composes a sleeve having a
closed end, the member extending from the closed end, and moving
the second housing and the member together comprises moving the
second housing coaxially into the sleeve. The method further
comprises engaging a charge head with the first housing.
[0063] In another aspect, the invention features a method of using
a needleless injection device comprising: providing a first housing
defining an orifice configured for needleless injection;
transferring an injectable material into the first housing through
the orifice; and injecting the injectable material through the
orifice.
[0064] Embodiments may contain one or more of the following
features. Injecting the material comprises reacting a chemical
pyrotechnic material. Transferring the material comprises engaging
the first housing with a second housing configured to house the
material. Transferring the material further comprises displacing a
member in the second housing. Transferring the material further
comprises engaging the second housing with a third housing.
[0065] In another aspect, the invention features a method of
providing an injection device comprising: providing a first housing
formed of a first material and configured to house an injectable
material; providing a second housing defining an orifice, the
second housing formed of a second material different than the first
material, the first and second housings configured to mate together
wherein the first housing is capable of transferring the injectable
material to the second housing, the second housing having a
propellant, e.g., a chemical propellant, configured to displace the
injectable material through the orifice and out of the second
housing; and mating the first and second housings together.
[0066] Embodiments may contain one or more of the following
features. The method further comprises transferring the injectable
material from the first housing to the second housing through the
orifice. The method further comprises injecting the injectable
material through the orifice.
[0067] In yet another aspect, the invention features a method of
providing an injection device comprising: providing a first housing
formed of a first material and configured to house an injectable
material; providing a second housing defining an orifice, the
second housing formed of a second material different than the first
material, the first and second housings configured to mate together
wherein the first housing is capable of transferring the injectable
material to the second housing, the second housing having a
propellant configured to displace the injectable material through
the orifice and out of the second housing; and optionally providing
instructions for using the injection device. In another embodiment,
the method further comprises placing the injectable material in the
first housing.
[0068] In another aspect, the invention features a method of
providing a needleless injection device powered by a chemical
propellant, e.g., a pyrotechnic material or a propellant that
undergoes a chemical reaction to produce a gas. The method can
include providing, e.g., manufacturing, a first housing as
described herein; providing, e.g., manufacturing, a second housing
as described herein; and optionally, combining the first and second
housings or providing instructions to another entity to combine
them.
[0069] In a preferred embodiment, one compound, e.g., a liquid,
e.g., a diluent, is disposed in one housing, and a second compound,
e.g., a dry compound, e.g., a lyophilized material, is disposed in
another housing. In a preferred embodiment, both compounds are
disposed in one housing.
[0070] In a preferred embodiment, a first entity places a first
compound, e.g., a diluent, in one housing, and a second entity
places a second compound, e.g., a lyophilized material, in another
housing. In a preferred embodiment, one entity places a first
compound in a first housing and places a second compound in a
second housing.
[0071] In a preferred embodiment, one or both of the first and
second entities provide instructions to a third entity, e.g., a
healthcare provider or a patient, to combine the first and second
housings.
[0072] As used herein, "injectable material" refers to any material
or mixture of materials that can be injected into the body of a
subject, e.g., a human or an animal. For example, an injectable
material can be a fluid, e.g., a diluent or a diluent and a
drug.
[0073] Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention
will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the
claims.
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0074] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an
injection system.
[0075] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an injector
device.
[0076] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a fluid
transfer device.
[0077] FIG. 4 is a side view of the injection system of FIG. 1.
[0078] FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of the injection system of
FIG. 1.
[0079] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the fluid transfer
device of FIG. 3.
[0080] FIG. 7 is an end view of the fluid transfer device of FIG.
3.
[0081] FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of the fluid transfer
device of FIG. 7, taken along line 8-8.
[0082] FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of the fluid transfer
device of FIG. 7, taken along line 9-9.
[0083] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of
an injector device.
[0084] FIG. 11 is an end view of the injector device of FIG.
10.
[0085] FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of the injector device of
FIG. 11, taken along line 12-12.
[0086] FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of the injector device of
FIG. 11, taken along line 13-13.
[0087] FIG. 14 is an end view of an embodiment of an injector
device.
[0088] FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view of the injector device of
FIG. 14, taken along line 15-15.
[0089] FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view of the injector device of
FIG. 14, taken along line 16-16.
[0090] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a charge
cup.
[0091] FIG. 18 is an end view of an embodiment of an injector
device.
[0092] FIG. 19 is a cross sectional view of the injector device of
FIG. 18, taken along line 19-19.
[0093] FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view of the injector device of
FIG. 18, taken along line 20-20.
[0094] FIG. 21 is an end view of an embodiment of an injection
system.
[0095] FIG. 22A is a schematic cross sectional view of the
injection system of FIG. 21, taken along line 22A-22A.
[0096] FIG. 22B is a schematic cross sectional view of the
injection system of FIG. 21, taken along line 22B-22B.
[0097] FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of the injection
system of FIG. 21.
[0098] FIGS. 24A, 24B, 24C, and 24D are cross sectional views of
the injector system of FIG. 21 during use.
[0099] FIG. 25 is an end view of an embodiment of an injector
device.
[0100] FIG. 26 is a cross sectional view of the injector device of
FIG. 25, taken along line 26-26.
[0101] FIG. 27 is a cross sectional view of the injector device of
FIG. 25, taken along line 27-27.
[0102] FIG. 28 is a detailed view of the injector device of FIG.
26.
[0103] FIG. 29 is an exploded perspective view of the injector
device of FIG. 26.
[0104] FIG. 30 is an illustrated plot of pressure as a function of
time for a relatively fast burning material.
[0105] FIG. 31 is an illustrated plot of pressure as a function of
time for a relatively slow burning material.
[0106] FIG. 32 is an illustrated plot of pressure as a function of
time for a combination of relatively fast and slow burning
materials.
[0107] FIG. 33 is a schematic cross sectional view of an embodiment
of a loaded charge cup.
[0108] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an
injection system.
[0109] FIG. 35 is an exploded perspective view of the injector
system of FIG. 34.
[0110] FIG. 36 is an end view of the injector system of FIG. 34
[0111] FIG. 37 is a cross sectional view of the injector system of
FIG. 36, taken along line 37-37.
[0112] FIG. 38 is a cross sectional view of the injector system of
FIG. 36, taken along line 38-38.
[0113] FIG. 39 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
[0114] FIG. 40 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
[0115] FIG. 41 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
[0116] FIG. 42 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
[0117] FIG. 43 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
[0118] FIG. 44 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
[0119] FIG. 45 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
[0120] FIG. 46 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
[0121] FIG. 47 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
[0122] FIG. 48 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
[0123] FIG. 49 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
[0124] FIG. 50 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
[0125] FIG. 51 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
[0126] FIG. 52 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
[0127] FIG. 53 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
[0128] FIG. 54 is a plot of pressure as a function of time for an
embodiment of a charge.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0129] The invention relates to injection systems and devices that
can be used in injection systems.
[0130] Referring to FIGS. 1-5, a needleless injection system 50
includes an injector device 52 and a fluid transfer device 54.
Injector device 52 and fluid transfer device 54 are configured to
mate with each other (FIGS. 1, 4 and 5). Generally, fluid transfer
device 54 contains an injectable fluid 56, such as an aqueous
diluent, e.g., a saline solution, and another material 58, such as
a lyophilized material, separate from the injectable fluid (FIG.
5). Injector device 52, which contains a multi-component charge
system, is configured to receive injectable fluid 56 and material
58 from fluid transfer device 54, and to inject mixed fluid and
material to a subject, e.g., a human.
[0131] Fluid transfer device 54 is generally configured to house
one or more injectable materials, e.g., fluid 56 and material 58.
Referring to FIGS. 6-9, device 54 includes a vial 60, here, a
cylindrical tube made of a material that is stable and
substantially inert to fluid 56 and material 58 for extended
periods of time, e.g., over the shelf life of the injectable
material. Typically, the material for vial 60 is relatively rigid
and relatively impervious to diffusion and evaporation, such that,
for example, fluid 56 does not leach out of the vial. Materials
include, for example, those that are FDA-approved and/or those used
for pharmacological purposes, such as glass, polymers, and
metal-containing materials.
[0132] Typically, vial 60 contains therein four stoppers that
define separate cavities for fluid 56 and material 58. Starting at
its top or proximal end, vial 60 includes a top stopper 62, a first
middle stopper 64, a second middle stopper 66, and a bottom stopper
68 located at the bottom or distal end of the vial. Top stopper 62
includes a centrally positioned top needle 70, e.g., a stainless
steel or relatively hard plastic needle, and a pierceable portion
72 adjacent to the bottom or distal end of the top needle. At its
top or proximal end, top needle 70 is configured to engage with an
orifice of injector device 52 (described below). First and second
middle stoppers 64 and 66 are connected together by a middle needle
74. At its distal end, middle needle 74 is secured to second middle
stopper 66; and at its proximal end, the middle needle is adjacent
to a pierceable portion 76 of first middle stopper 64. Bottom
stopper 68 seals the distal end of vial 60 and is configured to
engage with a pushrod (described below). Thus, referring
particularly to FIGS. 8 and 9, top stopper 62 and first middle
stopper 64 define a first cavity that houses material 58; and
second middle stopper 66 and bottom stopper 68 define a separate
second cavity that houses fluid 56.
[0133] In general, stoppers 62, 64, 66, and 68 can be made of any
material that can provide a good seal, e.g., a liquid-tight and/or
air-tight seal, with vial 60. As an example, a suitable stopper
material is a resilient material such as butylene rubber.
Typically, the stoppers should be movable within vial 60 while
still providing a good seal with the vial. In embodiments, stoppers
62, 64, 66, and 68 can be made of the same material or different
materials.
[0134] Fluid transfer device 54 further includes an adaptor 78 and
a base 80. Adaptor 78 is configured to receive and to secure the
proximal end of vial 60 so that fluid transfer device 54 can engage
with injector device 52. Adaptor 78 can include one or more tangs
82 that enhance connection to and release from injector device 52.
Base 80 is configured to receive the distal or bottom end of vial
60. Base 80 includes an integrally formed pushrod 84 that can
engage with bottom stopper 68 during use (described below).
[0135] Other embodiments of fluid transfer devices are possible and
are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial Nos.
60/250,410; 60/250,425; 60/250,537; and 60/250,573, all filed on
Nov. 30, 2000, and all entitled "Injection Devices", the entire
contents of which are all hereby incorporated by reference. For
example, in embodiments, a fluid transfer device may include only
two stoppers that define a cavity for a fluid only, as described in
U.S. Ser. No. 60/250,573. In embodiments, a fluid transfer device
may include a material housed in a stopper and sealed in a powder
pack, as described in U.S. Ser. No. 60/250,410. Combinations of
such embodiments can be used.
[0136] Injector device 52 is generally configured to receive
injectable material (fluid 56 and material 58) transferred from
fluid transfer device 54 and to deliver the material to a subject.
As described below, numerous embodiments of injector device 52 are
possible.
[0137] Referring to FIGS. 10-13, in some embodiments, an injector
device 100 includes a multi-component charge that is activated
electrically, here, with a two-lead design. Injector device 100
generally includes, starting distally, an injector 102, an injector
cap 104, and a battery cap 106 located proximally. Injector 102,
injector cap 104, and battery cap 106 are attached coaxially by
threaded connections 108 and 110. Injector 102 defines a chamber
112, here, a generally elongated cylindrical cavity, that receives
injectable material, and an orifice 114 (in fluid communication
with chamber 112) through which the injectable material is
delivered to the chamber and expelled during use. Orifice 114 is
generally configured for needleless injection. Injector 102 is
generally made of a material that is more break-resistant than the
material of vial 60. Preferably, the material of injector 102 is
resistant to mechanical shock from discharge of the charge, e.g.,
the injector material has a burst strength greater than the
pressure generated by the charge (as described below). The material
of injector 102 preferably fails non-catastrophically, e.g., does
not shatter, if exposed to sufficient mechanical shock. Suitable
materials for injector 102 include, for example, polycarbonates and
polysulfones.
[0138] Inside injector 102 and injector cap 104, device 100
includes a piston 116, a charge sleeve 118, and a charge cup 120.
In general, during use, piston 116 and charge sleeve 118 are
slidably movable within injector 102, while charge cup 120 is
fixedly secured between the injector and injector cap 104 (FIGS. 12
and 13). Piston 116 includes an O-ring 122 and a backup ring 124
that provide a tight, but movable, seal between the piston and the
wall of chamber 112. Similarly, charge cup 120 includes an O-ring
126 and a backup ring 128 that provide a tight seal between the
charge cup and charge sleeve 118, while still allowing the charge
sleeve to slide within injector 102. Charge cup 120 further defines
a charge cavity 130 in which the charge is placed. After the charge
is loaded in cavity 130, the charge is covered and sealed with a
burst membrane 132 and covered with a nozzle 134. Burst membrane
132 can be, for example, a 0.005 inch thick disc of Mylar.RTM.
foil. Nozzle 134, which fits over a portion of charge cup 120, is a
cylindrical cup having an opening at its base. Nozzle 134 provides
a good interference fit between charge cup 120 and charge sleeve
118, and can also minimize any bulging of the charge cup near
cavity 130 due to packing of the charge in the cavity. Piston 116
and charge cup 120 can be made of, e.g., injection molded polymer
such as polycarbonate. Nozzle 134 and charge sleeve 118 can be made
of, e.g., stainless steel.
[0139] In some embodiments, the charge includes a mixture of a
propellant (e.g., 1:1 copper oxide and 5-aminotetrazole, or 5AT)
and a triggering material (e.g., sucrose and potassium chlorate).
Numerous other systems can be used. Generally, specific
compositions for charge systems are determined empirically, taking
into account, for example, the size of the injector, the amount of
injectable material to be delivered, and the size of the orifice. A
non-limiting, illustrative list of examples of chemical components
that can be used are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,103,684;
4,342,310; 4,447,225; 4,518,385; 4,592,742; 4,623,332; 4,680,027;
4,722,728; 4,913,699; 5,024,656; 5,049,125; 5,064,123; 5,190,523;
5,304,128; 5,312,335; 5,334,144; 5,383,851; 5,399,163; 5,499,972;
5,501,666; 5,503,628; 5,520,639; 5,569,189; 5,630,796; 5,704,911;
5,730,723; 5,840,061; 5,851,198; 5,879,327; 5,899,879; 5,899,880;
5,911,703 and 5,993,412, each of which is hereby incorporated by
reference.
[0140] As mentioned above, injector device 100 electrically
activates or ignites the charge. Charge cup 120 further includes
two wire leads 136 connectable to an electrical energy source.
Leads 136 extend from cavity 130 (and the charge) to an energy
source, here, a battery 138. Battery 138, e.g., a lithium coin
battery, is secured between injector cap 104 and battery cap 106.
Battery 138 is nested in an electrically-conducting contact can 140
along with a cushion disc 142 made of a resilient material. Contact
can 140 has a rim configured to contact one terminal of battery
138, and an opening 144 that allows one of leads 136 to contact
another terminal of the battery. Cushion disc 142 can minimize
recoil during use of injector device 100 and allows battery 138 to
be depressed to contact one of the leads 136 (described below).
[0141] Turning now to leads 136, at their distal ends, the leads
terminate near charge cavity 130. Leads 136 can terminate anywhere
along the longitudinal length of cavity 130, depending on which
part of the charge is to be exposed to activation or ignition. The
distal ends or portions of leads 136 are electrically connected
together, e.g., by a tungsten filament (not shown) that extends
across cavity 130, e.g., transverse to the longitudinal length of
the cavity. In some embodiments, the surface of cavity 130 can be
coated with an electrically-conducting layer, and the distal
portions of leads 136 can be electrically connected together via
the electrically-conducting layer. At their proximal ends, one of
leads 136 contacts contact can 140, and the other one of the leads
extends through opening 144 and is slightly spaced from a terminal
of battery 138 (FIG. 12).
[0142] In operation, injectable material, i.e., fluid 56 and
material 58, is transferred from fluid transfer system 54 to
injector device 100; the system and the device are separated; and
the injectable material is ejected from the injector device.
Referring again to FIG. 5, injector 102 and adaptor 78 are
connected together, e.g., snap fit together. Orifice 114 and top
needle 70 are engaged in fluid communication with each other.
[0143] With fluid transfer device 54 and injector device 100
connected, the injector device is pushed down or distally, with
base 80 stationary, e.g., against a fixed, flat surface. As
pressure develops in vial 60 to a sufficient or predetermined
level, top needle 70 pierces pierceable portion 72, and middle
needle 74 pierces pierceable portion 76. As injector device 100 is
pushed down, pushrod 84 advances bottom stopper 68 up. As injector
device 100 is continued to be pushed down, fluid 56 is transferred
through middle needle 74 to the cavity between top stopper 62 and
first middle stopper 64 where the fluid mixes with material 58. The
mixed material is transferred through top needle 70, through
orifice 114, and into chamber 112. Injector device 100 is advanced
down until a predetermined amount of fluid 56, material 58, and/or
mixed material are transferred to the injector device, at which
time the injector device is disconnected from fluid transfer device
54.
[0144] To inject the mixed material from injector device 100,
orifice 114 is placed adjacent to a predetermined injection site,
and battery 138 is pushed distally or down. As battery 138 is
pushed down, one of its terminals contacts the spaced proximal end
of one of the leads 136 (FIG. 12), thereby completing an electrical
loop between the leads 136 (since the other lead is already
connected to the other terminal of the battery via contact can
140). Electrical energy from battery 138 flows through the filament
extending across the charge, and ignites the charge. The activated
or ignited charge generates gas, i.e., pressure, in cavity 130. The
gas ruptures burst membrane 132 at a predetermined pressure and
propels charge sleeve 188 and piston 116 distally, thereby pushing
the injectable material through orifice 114 and into the injection
site.
[0145] FIGS. 14-16 show another embodiment of an injector device
150, in which elements similar to elements described above are
designated with the same reference characters. Injector device 150
includes a separate cup 152 for housing the charge and a modified
arrangement of wire leads. Cup 152 further minimizes any bulging of
charge cup 120 due to packing of the charge. Cup 152 allows the
charge to be prepared separately from charge cup 120. Cup 152 also
allows the charge to be prepared modularly, e.g., like tailorable
bullet modules that can be loaded into predetermined injector
devices according to medication, dosage, delivery rate, etc.
[0146] Referring particularly to FIG. 17, cup 152 includes two
slots 154 and two grooves 156. Slots 154 are configured to receive
a wire or a filament (not shown) that extends across the
longitudinal length of cup 152 and through the charge. The wire,
e.g., a tungsten filament, can be secured to cup 152 with an
electrically-conducting material, such as an
electrically-conducting epoxy. Slots 154 are also designed so that
the wire or filament can be relatively easily threaded and attached
to cup 152. Grooves 156 extend along the side of cup 152 and to the
bottom of the cup (FIG. 15). Grooves 156 and the top surface or rim
160 of cup 152 are coated with an electrically-conducting layer,
e.g., a metal layer, such that the layer can electrically contact
the wire or filament. Thus, electrically-conducting material in one
of the grooves 156 at the bottom of cup 152 is in electrical
communication with electrically-conducting material in another one
of the grooves at the bottom of the cup via the grooves on the side
of the cup, rim 160, and the wire or filament. In other
embodiments, cup 152 can have more than two slots 154 and/or
grooves 156 that can be arranged in different arrangements, e.g.,
asymmetrically arranged around the cup.
[0147] Referring particularly to FIG. 15, injector device 150
further includes two wire leads 158. At their distal ends, one of
the leads 158 electrically contacts electrically-conducting
material formed in one of the grooves 156 at the bottom of cup 152,
and the other lead contacts electrically-conducting material formed
in the other groove 156 at the bottom of the cup. At their proximal
ends, one of the leads 158 contacts contact can 140, and the other
lead is spaced from battery 138, as described above. In use,
injectable material is transferred to injector device 150 and
ejected from the device as generally described above.
[0148] FIGS. 18-20 show another embodiment of an injector device
170, in which elements similar to elements described above are
designated with the same reference characters. Injector device 170
is generally similar to injector device 100, but modified to
include one center lead 172 instead of two leads 136. At its
proximal end, lead 172 contacts a terminal of a battery assembly
174, here, two lithium coin batteries. At its distal end, lead 172
extends through cavity 130, and a distal portion of the lead is
crimped to an electrically-conducting filament 176 by an
electrically-conducting tube 178. Filament 176 extends through the
charge in cavity 130, between burst membrane 132 and the distal end
of charge cup 120, and between the charge cup and nozzle 134 where
the filament contacts a contact strip 180. Contact strip 180 also
contacts charge sleeve 118. Electrical contact is continued from
contact strip 180 to a second contact strip 182, for example, by
making charge sleeve 118 out of an electrically-conducting material
such as stainless steel or by connecting the contact strips with a
filament. Second contact strip 182 is capable of contacting a
second terminal of battery assembly 174. For example, second
contact strip 182 can be connected to contact can 140, e.g., by a
filament, and the contact can may have a portion that is spaced
from, but capable of contacting, the second terminal of battery
assembly 174. The portion can be contacted with the second
terminal, e.g., by depressing a button 184 and cushion disk 142.
Device 170 can be triggered by depressing button 184, which
completes an electrical loop to ignite the charge.
[0149] FIGS. 21, 22A, 22B, and 23 show another embodiment of an
injection system 200 wherein a fluid transfer device is integrated
with an injector device. Elements similar to elements described
above are designated with the same reference characters. System 200
includes an injector 202, an injector cap 204, and a removable
safety band 206. Injector 202 defines a chamber 210 and an orifice
212, as generally described above. In some embodiments, chamber 210
contains an injectable material, such as a lyophilized material. In
some embodiments, chamber 210 is empty. Injector 202 and injector
cap 204 are movable relative to one another by a threaded
connection 208 when safety band 206 is removed from system 200,
e.g., by a user.
[0150] Within injector 202 and injector cap 204, system 200
includes a piston 214, a vial 216, and a charge cup 218. Piston 214
includes an O-ring 220 and a backup ring 222, as generally
described above. Piston 214 defines a lumen 224 that extends
transverse to the length of the piston, and an annular tab 225. Tab
225 engages a portion of injector 202 to keep piston 214 stationary
when fluid is transferred through the piston (described below). Tab
225 is also configured to separate, e.g., shear, from piston 214
under a predetermined force, e.g., a force of injection. Disposed
within piston 214 is a piercing element 226, e.g., a hollow needle,
that is in fluid communication with lumen 224 and extends
proximally where it engages a stopper seal 227. Stopper seal 227
seals the proximal end of piercing element 226. For example, in
embodiments in which chamber 210 contains a material, such as a
sprayed dried or lyophilized powder, stopper seal 227 can be used
with piston 214 to seal the chamber to protect the material from
exposure, e.g., to air. Orifice 212 can be sealed with a removable
barrier. Vial 216, e.g., a glass vial as described above, is
coaxially positioned within injector 202.
[0151] Within vial 216 are a distal stopper 228 and a proximal
stopper 230 that contain an injectable fluid 232 therebetween.
Distal stopper 228, e.g., made of a biocompatible or inert
material, such a butyl rubber, includes a pierceable portion 234
adjacent to stopper seal 227. Proximal stopper 230 includes an
outer portion 229 and an inner core 231. In some embodiments, outer
portion 229 and inner core 231 are formed of different materials.
For example, outer portion 229 can be formed of a material, e.g., a
butyl rubber, that is relatively inert to fluid 232 and provides a
tight seal with vial 216; and core 231 can be formed of a
relatively rigid material having a relatively high durometer. Core
231 can provide system 200 with predictable injections, e.g., by
minimizing undesirable harmonics during injection. Charge head 218,
including embodiments for igniting the charge, can be any of the
embodiments described above and below, for example, as in injector
device 100, 150, or 170.
[0152] FIGS. 24A-24D show one embodiment of a method of using
injection system 200. Safety band 206 is removed to allow injector
cap 204 to be rotated to advance the injector cap toward orifice
212, i.e., distally. As injector cap 204 advances distally, distal
and proximal stoppers 228 and 230 are also forced distally such
that piercing element 226 pierces stopper seal 227 and portion 234
of the distal stopper (FIG. 24B). Tab 225 keeps piston 214
generally stationary. As the injector cap is advanced further,
fluid 232 is transferred from between stoppers 228 and 230, through
piercing element 226, through lumen 224, and into chamber 210,
where, in some embodiments, the fluid mixes with another material,
e.g., a lyophilized material. Injector cap 204 is advanced distally
until all of fluid 232 is transferred into chamber 210 (FIG. 24C).
Distal stopper 228 mates with piston 214. Injectable material,
i.e., fluid 232 or fluid mixed with another material, is expelled
through orifice 212 by triggering charge head 218 as described
above. Triggering the charge head propels the charge sleeve
distally, which propels stoppers 228 and 230 and piston 214
distally (and shears tab 225), thereby expelling the injectable
material through orifice 212 (FIG. 24D).
[0153] In some embodiments, proximal stopper 230 can be made of one
material, e.g., integrally formed of one material. Distal stopper
288 can be formed of multiple materials, as described above for
stopper 230. In certain embodiments, e.g., in which only a fluid is
injected, e.g., no lyophilized material, stopper seal 227 and
distal stopper 228 can be integrally formed as one component. In
such embodiments, stopper seal 227 and stopper 228 can be formed of
the same or different materials. In embodiments, piston 214 and
piercing element 226 can be integrally formed. For example, piston
214 can define a proximal piercing portion capable of piercing
stopper seal 227 and distal stopper 228. The proximal piercing
portion is capable of establishing fluid communication between
lumen 224 and material 232. Other configurations of lumen 224 are
possible to transfer material 232 from one end of piston 214 to
another end.
[0154] FIGS. 25-29 show another embodiment of an injector device
250 in which the charge is ignited non-electrically, here,
chemically. Device 250 includes an injector 252, an injector cap
254 connected to the injector by a threaded connection 258, and a
safety cap 256. Injector 252 defines an orifice 260 and a chamber
262 for injectable material, generally as described above.
[0155] Within injector 252 and injector cap 254, device 250
includes a piston 264 and a charge cup 266. Piston 264 includes a
piston O-ring 268 and a piston backup ring 270; and charge cup 266
includes a charge cup O-ring 272 and a backup ring 274, as
generally described above. Charge cup 266 defines a charge cavity
282, a breakable capsule 284, and a burst membrane 286. As
described below, charge cavity 282 contains a charge, and capsule
284 contains a material capable of activating or igniting the
charge, e.g., a catalyst or an oxidizing agent such as sulfuric
acid.
[0156] Proximal of piston 264, device 250 further includes a shear
pin 276, a movable charge sleeve 278, and a nozzle 280. Shear pin
276 holds charge sleeve 278 stationary at an initial position until
a predetermined pressure is generated by the charge. Charge sleeve
278 includes a projection 288 that abuts against burst membrane 286
and capsule 284 (FIG. 28). Device 250 also includes a gasket 294
that, during use, minimizes recoil and allows safety cap 256 to be
advanced distally (described below).
[0157] Safety cap 256 includes a removable safety tab 292, e.g., a
strip of plastic. Safety cap 256 is attached to device 250 by a
threaded connection 290 defined by the proximal end of charge cup
266.
[0158] In operation, device 250 is fired by removing safety tab 292
from the device, which allows safety cap 256 to be pushed distally,
toward orifice 260, which is abutted against a surface, e.g., a
subject's skin. As safety cap 256 is pushed distally (by a distance
approximately equal to the thickness of safety tab 292 via threaded
connection 290), projection 288 deforms burst membrane 286 and
breaks capsule 284, thereby releasing the activating or igniting
material inside the capsule. The activating material reacts with
the charge in cavity 282 and generates pressure. The pressure
increases inside cavity 282 until burst membrane 286 ruptures and
the force against charge sleeve 278 is sufficient to break shear
pin 276. This pressure moves sleeve 278 distally, thereby pushing
piston 264 distally and expelling injectable material in chamber
262 through orifice 260.
[0159] FIGS. 34-38 show another embodiment of an injection system
350 including an injector device 352 and a power unit 354. Injector
device 352 can be disposable, and power unit 354 can be
reusable.
[0160] Referring particularly to FIG. 35, injector device 352
includes an injector 356 and an injector cap 358 connectable to the
injector by a threaded connection and sealable with a face seal
361, e.g., an O-ring. Injector 356 defines a cavity 359 and an
orifice 362, as generally described above. Within injector 356 and
cap 358, injector device 352 includes a piston 360, an
electrically-conductive bridge 364 that engages the proximal end of
the piston, and a membrane 367, e.g., a disc of paper, between the
piston and injector cap 358. Piston 360 includes O-rings 368 and
backup rings 370, and defines a charge cavity 366 at the proximal
end, as generally described herein. That is, charge cavity 366 is
integrally formed with piston 360. Bridge 364 includes two
conductive members 372 that fit into two grooves 374 defined by
piston 360. A wire 376, e.g., a tungsten filament, extends from one
member 372, through a charge in cavity 366, and to the other member
372. Injector device 352 further includes two
electrically-conductive leads 378 that extend from members 372 and
through injector 356 to contact power unit 354.
[0161] Power unit 354 includes an adaptor 380, a battery 382, and a
switch 384. Adaptor 380 is configured to connect to injector device
352 and to trigger the injector device. Numerous embodiments are
possible. In some embodiments, adaptor 380 includes two extensions
386 that engage with injector device 352 (FIG. 34). Each extension
386 has a conductive lead 388 therein that extends from lead 378 to
battery 382, where the leads are capable of contacting a terminal
of the battery. Switch 384 is configured to selectably connect the
terminals of battery 382 to leads 388, thereby passing a current
through the leads. For example, a spring can be placed between
injector cap 358 and battery 382 to push battery proximally, and by
depressing switch 384 distally, the terminals of the battery can be
urged distally into contact with leads 388. Other embodiments of
switch 384 are possible.
[0162] In operation, an injectable material (not shown) is placed
cavity 359, and orifice 362 is placed adjacent to an injection
site. Switch 384 is then activated such that an electrical current
flows from battery 382 and through leads 388, leads 378, members
372, and filament 376. The current flowing through filament 376
ignites the charge in cavity 366. The ignited charge generates
pressure as described herein and propels piston 360 distally,
thereby ejecting the injectable material out of cavity 359, through
orifice 362, and into the injection site. After injection,
injection device 352 can be disconnected from power unit 354, and
another injection device can be connected to the power unit.
[0163] Other embodiments of injector devices are possible and are
described in incorporated-by-reference U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Serial Nos. 60/250,410; 60/250,425; 60/250,537; and
60/250,573.
[0164] The injectable material can include one or more substances.
For example, the second substance can be a liquid, e.g., a diluent
or solute. Such liquids can include buffers, inert fillers,
pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, or the like.
[0165] The substance can be a dry substance, e.g., a lyophilized
protein, nucleic acid, e.g., RNA or DNA, or polysaccharide. The
substance can be a vaccine, or a drug. The substance can be a
peptide, polypeptide, or protein, e.g., an antibody, an enzyme, a
hormone or growth factor. Preferred substances include insulin. The
substance can be: a blood protein, e.g., clotting factor VIII or a
IX, complement factor or component; a hormone, e.g., insulin,
growth hormone, thyroid hormone, a catecholamine, a gonadotrophin,
PMSG, a trophic hormone, prolactin, oxytocin, dopamine and the
like; a growth factor, e.g., EGF, PDGF, NGF, IGF's and the like; a
cytokine, e.g., an, interleukin, CSF, GMCSF, TNF, TGF-alpha,
TGF-beta. and the 25 like; an enzyme, e.g., tissue plasminogen
activator, streptokinase, cholesterol biosynthetic or degradative,
glycosolases, and the like; a binding protein, e.g., a steroid
binding protein, a growth hormone or growth factor binding protein
and the like; an immune system protein, e.g., an antibody, SLA or
MHC gene or gene product; an antigen, e.g., a bacterial, parasitic,
or viral, substance or generally allergens and the like. The
substances can be combined by the subject, or by another
person.
[0166] The subject can be a human or an animal, e.g., a laboratory
animal, or pet, e.g., a dog or cat, or other animal, e.g., a
bovine, a swine, a goat, or a horse.
[0167] Therapeutic agents that can be used in the devices and
methods described herein include, for example, vaccines,
chemotherapy agents, pain relief agents, dialysis-related agents,
blood thinning agents, and compounds (e.g., monoclonal compounds)
that can be targeted to carry compounds that can kill cancer cells.
Examples of such agents include, insulin, heparin, morphine,
interferon, EPO, vaccines towards tumors, and vaccines towards
infectious diseases.
[0168] The device can be used to deliver a therapeutic agent to any
primate, including human and non-human primates. The device can be
used to deliver an agent, e.g., a therapeutic agent to an animal,
e.g., a farm animal (such as a horse, cow, sheep, goat, or pig), to
a laboratory animal (such as a mouse, rat, guinea pig or other
rodent), or to a domesticated animal (such as a dog or cat). The
animal to which the therapeutic agent is being delivered can have
any ailment (e.g., cancer or diabetes). It is expected that the
device may be most useful in treating chronic conditions. However,
the device can also be used to deliver a therapeutic agent (such as
a vaccine) to an animal that is not suffering from an ailment (or
that is suffering from an ailment unrelated to that associated with
the therapeutic agent). That is, the device can be used to deliver
therapeutic agents prophylactically.
[0169] The devices and methods of the invention can be used to
individually tailor the dosage of a therapeutic agent to a
patient.
[0170] The devices and methods of the invention can allow for
outpatient treatment with increased convenience, such as, for
example, without the use of an I.V.
[0171] Devices and methods described herein can be advantageous
because they can be used to promote maintenance of the
concentration of a therapeutic agent in a patient's plasma within a
safe and effective range. Moreover, the device can release
therapeutic agents in response to the concentration of an analyte
in the patient's system. Thus, the rate of drug delivery can be
appropriate for the patient's physiological state as it changes,
e.g., from moment to moment.
[0172] The Charge
[0173] In general, the charge is formed of at least two discrete
materials (e.g., at least two discrete materials, at least three
discrete materials, at least four discrete materials, at least five
discrete materials, at least six discrete materials, at least seven
discrete materials, at least eight discrete materials, at least
nine discrete materials, at least 10 discrete materials, at least
11 discrete materials, at least 12 discrete materials, at least 13
discrete materials, at least 14 discrete materials, at least 15
discrete materials, at least 16 discrete materials, at least 17
discrete materials, at least 18 discrete materials, at least 19
discrete materials, at least 20 discrete materials) formed as
separate components. The discrete materials are typically used in
combination to provide a desired pressure profile of the injectable
fluid ejected by an injection device. Each discrete material can be
formed of a single material or a combination of materials. In
embodiments, by combining the discrete materials in a predetermined
assembly or sequence, with a predetermined macroscopic shape(s),
and/or with a predetermined microscopic structure(s), such as
spheres or rods, the charge can propel, e.g., a piston with a
predetermined pressure profile, i.e., pressure as a function of
time. Accordingly, the piston can inject the injectable material
from an injector with the predetermined pressure profile capable of
injecting the injectable material effectively.
[0174] In general, the types of discrete materials used in a charge
can include, for example, one or more triggers (a discrete material
capable of generating relatively large amounts of gas and heat),
one or more propellants (a relatively slow burning material) and/or
one or more passive decay materials (a low-yielding material that
continues the burn of the charge but which does not add a
substantial amount of heat or kinetic effect).
[0175] In general, the order of the discrete material used in a
charge can be varied as desired. As an example, a charge can have
one or more propellants disposed between one or more triggers and
one or more passive decay materials. As another example, a charge
can have one or more triggers disposed between one or more
propellants and one or more passive decay materials. As another
example, a charge can have one or more passive decay materials
disposed between one or more triggers and one or more propellants.
As a further example, one or more propellants can be intercalated
with one or more triggers and/or one or more passive decay
materials. Combinations of these exemplary embodiments can be used.
For example, in certain embodiments, a charge includes two or more
discrete pyrotechnic materials that can react and deflagrate. Each
pyrotechnic material can be formed of a single material or a
combination of materials. Deflagrations can proceed at any desired
rate (e.g., several inches per second, several hundred feet per
second). Examples of reactions that undergo deflagrations include
those used in air bag chemistry and rocket motor chemistry.
[0176] Typically, the charge is designed so that it is capable of
generating pressure such that the injectable material can be
ejected by an injection device with sufficient force to create an
opening in the body (e.g., an opening in the skin of the body)
through which the injectable material can be injected (FIG. 30).
The opening can created, for example, relatively quickly and
acceptably small to minimize pain and discomfort to the body. For
example, in certain embodiments, the trigger can be capable of
generating a relatively high initial pressure, such as about 4,000
psi, in a relatively short amount of time, such as about 1-5 msec,
e.g., 1-2.5 msec. In some embodiments, the pressure profile of the
trigger can have duration or latency of, for example, about 15
msec, with a final pressure of about 500 psi. In embodiments, the
charge can be capable of generating sufficient pressure such that
the injectable material can continue to keep the opening open so
that the injectable material can be delivered through the opening
at a desired dose, for a desired period of time and/or to a desired
depth (e.g., cutaneous, subcutaneous, intramuscular, etc.) (FIG.
31). In embodiments, the charge can generate relatively large
amounts of gas but relatively low amounts of heat. Preferably, the
pressure generated by the charge does not enlarge the opening that
can cause discomfort, and/or allow the opening to decrease in size,
which can decrease the effectiveness of the injection by allowing
the injectable material to leak back out of the opening. As an
example, in some embodiments, the charge is capable of generating a
relatively low initial and final pressures, such as about 700-800
psi and 200-300 psi, respectively. However, the latency of the
pressure profile of the charge can be relatively large, such as
about 500 msec.
[0177] By combining or loading the trigger, the propellant, and/or
the passive decay material in a controlled manner in a charge cup
or cavity, the charge can generate a pressure profile that is a
combination of the pressure profiles of the trigger, the
propellant, and/or the passive decay material, and which can
effectively deliver the injectable material (FIG. 32).
[0178] FIG. 33 shows an example of a charge having three components
loaded in a charge cup or cavity 300. Starting at a distal end, the
charge has an igniter 302 (e.g., 75 mg of BKNO.sub.3), a passive
decay material 304 (e.g., 60 mg of gum arabic), and a propellant
306 (e.g., 120 mg of CuO/5 aminotetrazole). The sequence of the
pyrotechnic materials can be adjusted according to the pressure
profile desired, e.g., igniter/propellant/igniter. Similarly, the
quantities of the pyrotechnic materials can be adjusted. At a
distal end, charge cup 300 has a burst membrane 308 that acts a
pressure dam so that a predetermined pressure can build up in the
charge cup before the membrane ruptures and pressure is released to
propel, e.g., the charge sleeve and piston. In other embodiments,
the membrane can be replaced with, for example, a shear pin.
[0179] In operation, a user can trigger the charge by passing a
current through a filament, which can extend through the igniter.
Triggering the charge causes the igniter to burn first, followed by
the decay material, and then the propellant. Thus, the charge is
capable of providing a multi-stage reaction that can deliver the
injectable material with a desired pressure profile.
[0180] The desired pressure profile can also be controlled by
tuning or shaping the charge and/or the pyrotechnic materials. For
example, the charge can be shaped by changing the shape of the
charge cup or cavity. The charge cup or cavity can have a narrow
distal end relative to the distal end; a diverging or converging
longitudinal cross section; and/or a narrowed throat region along
the longitudinal axis. The charge can be solid, e.g., like a
cigarette, or hollow, e.g., by using a filler material. The
pyrotechnic materials can be formed in different shapes, such as
spheres, rods, plates, etc., to change the surface area to volume
ratio, thereby affecting the burn rate and providing different
burning characteristics. The pyrotechnic materials can be granular
or pelletized.
[0181] Numerous charges can be used.
[0182] For example, the charge can be a combination of solid
materials for two or more stages that includes BKNO.sub.3 and CuO/5
aminotetrazole; thermite--aluminum powder and FeO.sub.2;
sulfur/chlorate mixtures; aluminum powders and potassium chlorate
or potassium perchlorate; urazole and KClO.sub.4; or urazole and
KNO.sub.3.
[0183] Other examples of charges include a system having solid and
liquid materials. Examples include vinegar and sodium bicarbonate;
NaMnO.sub.4 (permanganate) and hydrogen peroxide; Na metal and
water; Li metal and water; and quick lime and water. This system
can also be used as a percussive detonator in which the NaMnO.sub.4
is used to catalyze the rapid breakdown of hydrogen peroxide if
greater than 70%. Establishing first and second stages for a charge
could be implemented by physical segmentation of two reaction
chambers, or in having a more soluble outer zone of solid reactant,
and an inner zone of less soluble phase to slow the reaction. This
can be accomplished by compounding and pelletizing.
[0184] Other examples of charges include a system having
liquid-liquid materials. While sometimes referred to as hypergolic,
or hypergol fuels, these systems could be packaged in separate
containers. When the containers are physically breached, they react
quickly. Examples include monomethyl hydrazine and nitrogen tetra
oxide, Aerozine-50, and Competitive Impulse, Non-Carcinogenic
Hypergol or CINCH, which can be an all-purpose replacement for a
wide variety of hydrazine and hydrazine-based fuels.
[0185] In some embodiments, physical contact is used as the
principal ignition mechanism. An igniter is pressed into direct
contact with a secondary reactive material such as a propellant.
When this type of configuration is employed, it is sometimes
referred to as a "first-fire composition". In some cases, the
"first-fire" includes a mixture, such as 50/50, of the ignition mix
and the material that it is intended to ignite.
[0186] Examples of granular or pelletized igniter compositions are:
BKNO.sub.3 (Boron/Potassium Nitrate); ALCLO (Aluminum/Potassium
Perchlorate); MAG-TEF (Magnesium/Teflon); MTV
(Magnesium/Teflon/Viton); BP (Black Powder). Examples of igniter
compositions utilized in "first-fire" mixes are: AlA (Iron
Oxide/Diatomaceous Earth/Zirconium; ZPPV (Zirconium/Potassium
Perchlorate/Viton); TiCuO (Titanium/Copper Oxide); BBC
(Boron/Barium Chromate); BCC (Boron/Calcium Chromate); BBCTiPP
(Boron/Barium Chromate/Titanium/Potassium Perchlorate).
[0187] While the use of a charge in connection with certain
injection systems has been described above, the invention is not so
limited. In general, the charges described herein can be used in
any injection system (e.g., any needleless injector) properly
configured to house such charges (e.g., having an appropriate
charge cup or cavity).
[0188] Various combinations of charge materials can be used.
[0189] The following examples are illustrative and not intended to
be limiting.
EXAMPLES
[0190] In some embodiments, a charge includes a propellant
material, here, 5-AT, and a trigger material, here, a mixture of
KClO.sub.3 and sucrose. The charge is placed in a closed finite
volume, such as a charge cavity. The propellant material (5-AT) is
placed on the bottom of the charge cavity, and the trigger material
is placed on the propellant material. The propellant and/or trigger
material can be compacted, e.g., about 50-250 psi, or minimally
packed. The trigger material can be activated, for example, by
passing a current through a wire filament or using concentrated
sulfuric acid. One or more other materials, such as a passive decay
material (e.g., gum arabic) or a heat generating material (e.g.,
B/KNO.sub.3) can be placed between the propellant and the trigger
materials, depending on the desired pressure profile.
[0191] FIG. 39 shows a pressure profile (pressure as a function of
time) capable of providing a needleless injection, e.g., with
minimized discomfort. The pressure profile was produced by a charge
of 50 mg of 5 AT, compacted under 200 psi, and 33 mg of a mixture
of KClO.sub.3 and sucrose (22 mg KClO.sub.3 and 11 mg of sucrose)
over the SAT. The charge cavity had a diameter of about {fraction
(3/16)} inch. The depth, i.e., the distance between the open distal
end of the charge cavity and distal end of the charge, was about
0.191 inch.
[0192] The pressure profile generally increases rapidly, e.g., over
about 2-3 msec, to a peak pressure 511. The pressure then decreases
to a tail pressure 513. The peak pressure can decrease to the tail
pressure relatively flatly to produce a plateau region 515 with a
plateau pressure. In some embodiments, the peak pressure can
decrease relatively sharply, e.g., approximately exponential. It is
believed that the peak pressure creates an opening, e.g., in the
subject, through which injectable material can be delivered, and
the plateau pressure maintains the opening so that injectable
material can be continued to be delivered, e.g., without the
opening closing and injectable material leaking back.
[0193] Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that
the pressure profile is a function of one or more parameters or
variables. By adjusting these parameters or variables, the pressure
profile can be adjusted to provide a desired pressure profile. For
example, the pressure profile can be adjusted to inject subjects
with different tissue structure, to inject different types of
tissue on a subject, or to inject different types of injectable
materials. Some of these variables include the amounts of
components, e.g., the trigger or the propellant material, that form
the charge; the compositions of the components of the charge; the
degree of compaction of the components in the charge cavity, e.g.,
the apparent density of the components; the depth; and the void
volume of the charge cavity. The void volume is approximately equal
to the difference between the volume of the charge cavity and the
total volume of the components of the charge. In some embodiments,
the void volume is the empty volume between the trigger material
and the distal end of the charge cavity, e.g., where the burst
membrane is positioned.
[0194] Generally, the amount of trigger material is proportional to
the peak pressure and the tail pressure. For example, increasing
the amount of trigger material can increase the peak pressure and
the tail pressure. Similarly, the amount of propellant material is
related to the plateau pressure and the tail pressure. For example,
increasing the amount of propellant material, such as 5 AT,
increases the plateau pressure and the tail pressure.
[0195] The degree of compaction affects the shapes of the pressure
profile curve. High compaction can produce a plateau-shaped curve.
Low or minimal compaction can produce a curve that is not
plateau-shaped, e.g., one that decreases in an exponential-like
manner.
[0196] FIG. 40 shows a pressure profile for a charge having 50 mg
of 5-AT (compacted by hand packing) and 39 mg of a trigger mixture
(26 mg of KClO.sub.3 and 13 mg of sucrose). The depth was 0.190
inch. Compared to FIG. 39, hand packing, i.e., lower compaction, of
the propellant, and increasing the amount of trigger provides a
relatively higher peak pressure (about 6125 psi to about 5000
psi).
[0197] FIG. 41 shows a pressure profile for a charge having 50 mg
of 5-AT (compacted under 210 psi) and 39 mg of a trigger mixture
(26 mg of KClO.sub.3 and 13 mg of sucrose). The depth was 0.190
inch. Compared to FIG. 40, the degree of compaction is higher. As a
result, the peak pressure is lowered (about 6125 psi to about 4812
psi), but the tail pressure is increased (about 2500 psi to about
3500 psi).
[0198] FIG. 42 shows a pressure profile for a charge having 50 mg
of 5-AT (compacted under 220 psi) and 39 mg of a trigger mixture
(26 mg of KClO.sub.3 and 13 mg of sucrose). The depth was 0.190
inch. Compared to FIG. 41, the degree of compaction is higher,
which increases injection time, i.e., the time it takes for the
pressure profile to decrease from the peak pressure to the tail
pressure.
[0199] FIG. 43 shows a pressure profile for a charge having 50 mg
of 5-AT (compacted under 220 psi) and 31.5 mg of a trigger mixture
(21 mg of KClO.sub.3 and 10.5 mg of sucrose). The depth was 0.250
inch. Compared to FIG. 42, lowering the amount of trigger material
and increasing the depth, lowers the peak pressure (from about 5125
psi to about 3875 psi) and increases the injection time.
[0200] FIG. 44 shows a pressure profile for a charge having 50 mg
of 5-AT (compacted under 50 psi) and 36 mg of a trigger mixture (24
mg of KClO.sub.3 and 12 mg of sucrose). The depth was 0.190 inch.
Compared to FIG. 39, increasing the amount of trigger material and
decreasing the degree of compaction, increases the peak pressure
(from about 5000 psi to about 5687 psi) and tail pressure (from
about 2250 psi to about 2500 psi), slightly increases the injection
time.
[0201] FIG. 45 shows a pressure profile for a charge having 50 mg
of 5-AT (compacted under 100 psi) and 36 mg of a trigger mixture
(24 mg of KClO.sub.3 and 12 mg of sucrose). The depth was 0.190
inch. Compared to FIG. 44, increasing the degree of compaction
decreases the peak pressure (from about 5687 psi to about 4312 psi)
and increases the injection time.
[0202] FIG. 46 shows a pressure profile for a charge having only
31.5 mg of a trigger mixture (21 mg of KClO.sub.3 and 10.5 mg of
sucrose). The depth was 0.070 inch. Compared to FIG. 39, removing
the propellant results in a rapid decrease from the peak
pressure.
[0203] In some embodiments, the charge can further include
B/KNO.sub.3, an example of a material capable of generating high
heat and low gas, between the propellant and trigger materials. The
B/KNO.sub.3 is capable of further expanding gases generated by the
trigger material and increasing the combustion kinetics of the
propellant. Generally, the B/KNO.sub.3 can increase the peak
pressure, the plateau pressure, and/or the tail pressure.
[0204] FIG. 47 shows a pressure profile for a charge having 50 mg
of 5-AT (compacted under 210 psi) and 39 mg of a trigger mixture
(26 mg of KClO.sub.3 and 13 mg of sucrose). The depth was 0.220
inch. 20 mg of B/KNO.sub.3 (compacted under 40 psi) was placed
between the 5-AT and the trigger mixture. The B/KNO.sub.3 generally
provided a relatively high peak pressure (about 5562 psi), a
relatively high plateau pressure (about 4875 psi), a relatively
high tail pressure (about 3812 psi), and a relatively short
injection time.
[0205] FIG. 48 shows a pressure profile for a charge having 50 mg
of 5-AT (compacted under 220 psi) and 21 mg of a trigger mixture
(14 mg of KClO.sub.3 and 7 mg of sucrose). The depth was 0.190
inch. 20 mg of B/KNO.sub.3 (compacted under 40 psi) was placed
between the 5-AT and the trigger mixture. Compared to FIG. 47, a
decrease in depth and the amount of trigger material lower the peak
pressure (from about 5562 psi to about 3812 psi) but slightly
increase the slope of the plateau region.
[0206] FIG. 49 shows a pressure profile for a charge having 30 mg
of 5-AT (compacted under 210 psi) and 36 mg of a trigger mixture
(24 mg of KClO.sub.3 and 12 mg of sucrose). The depth was 0.130
inch. 10 mg of B/KNO.sub.3 (compacted under 40 psi) was placed
between the 5-AT and the trigger mixture. The pressure profile has
a double peak with a relatively rapidly decreasing tail.
[0207] For a given charge, the pressure profile can be modified by
modifying the depth. Modifying the depth can produce pressure
profiles having both an approximately exponentially decaying region
and a relatively flat plateau region.
[0208] FIGS. 49 to 54 show pressure profiles for a charge having 30
mg of 5-AT (compacted under 210 psi), 10 mg of B/KNO.sub.3
(compacted under 40 psi), 36 mg of a trigger material mixture (24
mg of KClO.sub.3 and 12 mg of sucrose). In FIG. 49 the depth was
0.130 inch; in FIG. 50, the depth was 0.135 inch; in FIG. 51 the
depth was 0.145 inch; in FIG. 52, the depth was 0.155 inch; in FIG.
53, the depth was 0.165 inch; and in FIG. 54, the depth was 0.175
inch. Controlling the depth can change the shape of the pressure
profile, e.g., whether the profile has a rapidly changing portion
and/or a relatively flat portion.
[0209] A pressure profile can be modified, e.g., tailored, in whole
or in part, by modifying one or more of the variables described
above.
[0210] Other embodiments are within the claims.
* * * * *