U.S. patent application number 12/289285 was filed with the patent office on 2009-02-26 for nasal adaptation of an oral inhaler device.
Invention is credited to Alex Sochaniwskyi, Wilem Wassenaar.
Application Number | 20090050158 12/289285 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35446338 |
Filed Date | 2009-02-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090050158 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wassenaar; Wilem ; et
al. |
February 26, 2009 |
Nasal adaptation of an oral inhaler device
Abstract
This invention is for nasal adaptors for oral inhaler devices
and methods of adapting an oral inhaler device with a nasal
adaptor. The nasal adaptor of the present invention, in assembly
with an oral metered dose aerosol inhaler converts an oral inhaler
device to nasal delivery. The nasal adaptor in assembly with an
oral inhaler device when in operation, simultaneously administers
an inhalant to the nasal mucosa and down to the bronchial tree and
lungs. In this manner a nasally delivered anti-inflammatory agent
would travel down the same route as an allergen would--the nostril,
nasal cavity, nasopharynx, trachea, bronchi and lung tissues.
Inventors: |
Wassenaar; Wilem; (Ontario,
CA) ; Sochaniwskyi; Alex; (Ontario, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CLARK & BRODY
1090 VERMONT AVENUE, NW, SUITE 250
WASHINGTON
DC
20005
US
|
Family ID: |
35446338 |
Appl. No.: |
12/289285 |
Filed: |
October 24, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10861502 |
Jun 7, 2004 |
7448385 |
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12289285 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
128/207.18 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 15/009 20130101;
A61M 15/08 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
128/207.18 |
International
Class: |
A61M 15/08 20060101
A61M015/08 |
Claims
1. A nasal adaptor for an oral inhaler device, which nasal adaptor
has a first end and a second end, such that when said nasal adaptor
is assembled with an oral inhaler device said second end is
available for insertion in a nostril.
2. The nasal adaptor of claim 1, wherein said first end and said
second end are the ends of a tube, and said first end has a
circumference that is the same as or greater than said second
end.
3. The nasal adaptor of claim 2, wherein said oral inhaler device
comprises a housing and a canister containing inhalant, said
housing comprising an upper arm and a lower arm, and when assembled
said first end is positioned within the lower arm of said
housing.
4. The nasal adaptor of claim 3, wherein longitudinal flanges run
between said first end and said second end to provide a snug fit
when assembled, and said longitudinal flanges do not interfere with
the insertion of said second end in a nostril.
5. The nasal adaptor of claim 4, wherein the longitudinal flanges
include protuberances that abut the open end of said lower arm of
said housing when assembled.
6. The nasal adaptor of claim 4, wherein said nasal adaptor has a
circular flange at substantially the first end of said nasal
adaptor.
7. The nasal adaptor of claim 6, wherein the longitudinal flanges
include protuberances that abut the end of said lower arm of said
housing.
8. The nasal adaptor of claim 3, wherein said nasal adaptor has a
circular flange positioned between said first end and second
end.
9. The nasal adaptor of claim 8, wherein said circular flange is
contiguous with a rim which fits snugly over the lower arm of said
housing when assembled.
10. A nasal adaptor for an oral inhaler device, comprising a sleeve
and a hollow cylinder at the base of said sleeve, such that when
said nasal adaptor is assembled with a modified version of an oral
inhaler device said cylinder is available for insertion in a
nostril.
11. The nasal adaptor of claim 10 wherein said oral inhaler device
comprises a housing and a canister containing inhalant, said
housing comprising an upper arm and a lower arm, which lower arm is
capable of detachment at a point along the lower arm, and said
lower arm is detached when said nasal adaptor is assembled with
said oral inhaler device.
12. A nasal adaptor for an oral inhaler device, having a first end
and a second end, such that when said nasal adaptor is assembled
with a modified version of an oral inhaler device the second end of
said nasal adaptor is available for insertion in a nostril.
13. The nasal adaptor of claim 12, wherein said first end and
second end are the ends of a tube, and said first end has a
circumference that is the same as or greater than said second
end.
14. The nasal adaptor of claim 13, wherein said nasal adaptor has a
circular flange positioned between said first end and second
end.
15. The nasal adaptor of claim 14, wherein said oral inhaler device
comprises a housing and a canister containing inhalant, said
housing comprising an upper arm and a lower arm, which lower arm is
capable of detachment at a point along the lower arm, and said
lower arm is detached when said nasal adaptor is assembled with the
oral inhaler device, and when assembled said first end is
positioned within the remainder of the lower arm of said
housing.
16. The nasal adaptor of claim 15, wherein said circular flange is
contiguous with a rim which fits snugly over the remainder of the
lower arm of said housing and is partially indented in order to
abut the upper arm of said housing, when in assembly.
17. A nasal adaptor for an oral inhaler device, which nasal adaptor
has a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and second
end are the ends of a tube, and said first end has a circumference
that is the same as or greater than said second end and said second
end has a circumference capable of insertion in a nostril.
18. The nasal adaptor of claim 17, wherein longitudinal flanges run
between said first end and said second end and said longitudinal
flanges do not interfere with the insertion of said second end in a
nostril.
19. The nasal adaptor of claim 18, wherein the longitudinal flanges
include protuberances on the flange end closest to the second
end.
20. The nasal adaptor of claim 18, wherein said nasal adaptor has a
circular flange at substantially the first end of said nasal
adaptor.
21. The nasal adaptor of claim 20, wherein the longitudinal flanges
include protuberances on the flange end closest to the second
end.
22. The nasal adaptor of claim 17, wherein said nasal adaptor has a
circular flange positioned between said first end and second
end.
23. The nasal adaptor of claim 22, wherein said circular flange is
contiguous with a rim at right angles projecting towards the first
end.
24. A nasal adaptor for an oral inhaler device, comprising a sleeve
contiguous with a cylinder at the base of said sleeve, said
cylinder having a circumference capable of insertion in a
nostril.
25. A nasal adaptor for an oral inhaler device, having a first end
and a second end, said second end having a circumference capable of
insertion in a nostril.
26. The nasal adaptor of claim 25, wherein said first end and
second end are the ends of a tube, and said first end has a
circumference that is the same as or greater than said second
end.
27. The nasal adaptor of claim 26, wherein said nasal adaptor has a
circular flange positioned between said first end and said second
end.
28. The nasal adaptor of claim 27, wherein said circular flange is
contiguous with a rim at right angles projecting towards the first
end.
29. The method of assembling the nasal adaptor of claim 1 with an
oral inhaler device comprised of a housing and canister containing
inhalant, said housing having an upper arm and a lower arm, by
inserting the first end of said nasal adaptor into the lower arm of
said housing.
30. The method of assembling the nasal adaptor of claim 17 with an
oral inhaler device comprised of a housing and canister containing
inhalant, said housing having an upper arm and a lower arm, by
inserting the first end of said nasal adaptor into the lower arm of
said housing such that said second end is available for insertion
in a nostril.
31. The method of assembling the nasal adaptor of claim 10 with an
oral inhaler device comprised of a housing and canister containing
inhalant, said housing having an upper arm and a lower arm, which
lower arm is capable of detachment at a point along the lower arm,
by detaching the lower arm and pushing the upper arm into said
sleeve so that said cylinder is in the spatial position formerly
occupied by said lower arm.
32. The method of assembling the nasal adaptor of claim 24 with an
oral inhaler device comprised of a housing and canister containing
inhalant said housing having an upper arm and a lower arm, which
lower arm is capable of detachment at a point along the lower arm,
by detaching the lower arm and pushing the upper arm into said
sleeve so that said cylinder is in the spatial position formerly
occupied by said lower arm, such that said second end is available
for insertion in a nostril.
33. The method of assembling the nasal adaptor of claim 12 with an
oral inhaler device comprised of a housing and canister containing
inhalant, said housing having an upper arm and a lower arm, which
lower arm is capable of detachment at a point along the lower arm,
by detaching the lower arm and inserting the first end of said
nasal adaptor into the remaining lower arm of said housing.
34. The method of assembling the nasal adaptor of claim 25 with an
oral inhaler device comprised of a housing and canister containing
inhalant, said housing having an upper arm and a lower arm, which
lower arm is capable of detachment at a point along the lower arm,
by detaching the lower arm and inserting the first end of said
nasal adaptor into the remaining lower arm of said housing such
that said second end is available for insertion in a nostril.
35. A kit comprised of the nasal adaptor of claim 1 and an oral
inhaler device.
36. A kit comprised of the nasal adaptor of claim 1 and a housing
for holding a canister containing inhalant.
37. A kit comprised of the nasal adaptor of claim 10 and an oral
inhaler device comprising a housing and a canister containing
inhalant, said housing having an upper arm and a lower arm, which
lower arm is capable of detachment at a point along the lower
arm.
38. A kit comprised of the nasal adaptor of claim 10 and a housing
for holding a canister containing inhalant, said housing having an
upper arm and a lower arm, which lower arm is capable of detachment
at a point along the lower arm.
39. A kit comprised of the nasal adaptor of claim 12 and an oral
inhaler device comprising a housing and a canister containing
inhalant, said housing having an upper arm and a lower arm, which
lower arm is capable of detachment at a point along the lower
arm.
40. A kit comprised of the nasal adaptor of claim 12 and a housing
for holding a canister containing inhalant, said housing having an
upper arm and a lower arm, which lower arm is capable of detachment
at a point along the lower arm.
41. A kit comprised of the nasal adaptor of claim 1 and a canister
containing inhalant.
42. A kit comprised of the nasal adaptor of claim 10 and a canister
containing inhalant.
43. A kit comprised of the nasal adaptor of claim 12 and a canister
containing inhalant.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to the adaptation
for nasal delivery of an oral inhaler device, and more particularly
to a method of adapting for nasal delivery a metered dose oral
aerosol inhaler device, and a nasal adaptor for an oral metered
dose aerosol inhaler device.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] One method of delivering medication is by a metered dose
aerosol inhaler device and such devices may be made to provide oral
or nasal delivery. Early inhalers are described in U.S. Pat. Nos.
3,361,306; 3,183,907; 3,565,070; 4,206,758; 4,803,978; 4,934,358;
4,955,371; 5,060,643; 5,351,683; 5,062,423.
[0003] An example of a typical metered dose inhaler is described
herein. A pressurized dispensing canister is filled under pressure
with a drug dissolved in a liquefied propellant, or micronized
particles suspended in a liquefied propellant. Surfactants may be
dissolved in the aerosol formulation as well. The canister is
fitted with a metering valve that is movable from an inactive to an
active (depressed dispensing) position. The canister containing
medication is placed in the upper arm of an elbow shaped housing
with the metered dose dispensing valve in position to deliver
medicament through the lower arm portion and into a patient's mouth
or nose, when the canister and thereby the dispensing valve is
depressed against the housing. The lower arm of the housing may be
configured to aid in delivery of the medication orally or
nasally.
[0004] Metered dose inhalers are an accepted means for delivering
medications, such as, bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and
anti-allergics, in small doses to the respiratory tract. Metered
dose inhalers may be a route for delivery of many other
medications.
[0005] However, if nasal delivery is the desirable mode and only an
oral inhaler is available, a satisfactory result may not be
achieved. After the discontinuance of the use of
chlorofluorocarbons (CFC's), the new non-CFC aerosol inhalers were
not necessarily available with nasal delivery adaptation.
[0006] Although the same medicine may be prescribed for oral and
nasal delivery, for example, beclomethasone dipropionate, the mode
of delivery may need to be different to achieve the best treatment.
In the past aerosol inhalers were sold to deliver this drug to the
nasal mucosa for treatment of allergic rhinitis. Oral
configurations of metered-dose aerosols are usually of a shape and
size that is not conducive to insertion into the nostril of a human
or animal.
[0007] In addition, there are side effects from oral delivery of
corticosteroids that could be avoided through nasal delivery. The
treatment of asthma and other lung conditions with oral inhalation
steroids is associated with fungal growth in the oral cavity. This
is likely due to the deposition of corticosteroids in the oral
cavity. Patient instructions on the use of oral inhalation aerosols
recommend that the patient rinse their mouth to remove oral
corticosteroids in an attempt to reduce the incidence of
candidiasis. The delivery of corticosteroids for inhalation through
the nose bypasses the oral cavity and thus reduces the incidence of
oral candidiasis.
[0008] The simultaneous treatment of rhinitis and asthma by
delivery of a steroid through the nose rather than delivering the
steroid to the lungs via the mouth and the nose locally was
described in W. Pedersen, I. Hjuler, H. Bisgaard, N. Mygind,
Allergy, April 1998, 53(4):383-7. Pedersen et al. found that nasal
inhalation of a corticosteroid from a spacer offers a simple and
effective treatment for both rhinitis and asthma. Since particles
from the air, such as allergens, are deposited primarily in the
nasal cavities, allergic inflammation would occur in the entire
airway mucosa. Pedersen et al. used a spacer to deliver medication
to the nasal mucosa. In their experiment a pressurized aerosol was
attached to a spacer device and the steroid was inhaled through the
nose from the spacer device. The use of a spacer, they believed,
provided a more uniform intranasal drug distribution, since only
inhaled air delivered the drug.
[0009] There are a number of patents that deal with the difficulty
in timing the inhalation of breath with the depression of the
dispensing valve--U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,615,826; 4,972,830; 5,758,638.
There are other patents that deal with the adaptation of an inhaler
for nasal delivery with a mask, particularly for animals, for
instance, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,510,818 and 5,666,948. However, a
drawback of a spacer or mask is the decreased dose of medication
due to the increased distance to the nasal cavity, and increased
surface on which the medication may adhere. To avoid this problem
by increasing the amount of medication dispensed is
uneconomical.
[0010] Aqueous nasal sprays delivered by pump action are an
alternative to aerosol inhalers. However, with aqueous delivery, a
set concentration is delivered to the mucosa since subsequent
sprays result in the extra aqueous solution being swallowed. In
contrast, a metered dose aerosol delivery allows a greater
concentration of inhalant to be delivered to the nasal mucosa.
Since the propellant is a vapour that dissipates, subsequent doses
result in extra medication being deposited on the nasal mucosa.
[0011] Therefore it would be desirable to provide a method of
adapting an oral metered dose aerosol inhaler and also to provide
an adaptor for an oral metered dose aerosol inhaler to enable
effective nasal delivery.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] This invention is for nasal adaptors for oral inhaler
devices and methods of adapting an oral inhaler device with a nasal
adaptor. The oral inhaler device comprises a housing and a canister
containing inhalant. The housing comprises an upper arm and a lower
arm.
[0013] In a first embodiment of the invention a nasal adaptor has a
first end and a second end, such that when said nasal adaptor is
assembled with an oral inhaler device said second end is available
for insertion in a nostril. Furthermore said first end and said
second end are the ends of a tube, and said first end has a
circumference that is the same as or greater than said second
end.
[0014] In one adaptation, the nasal adaptor may also comprise
longitudinal flanges between said first end and said second end to
provide a snug fit when assembled, such that said longitudinal
flanges do not interfere with the insertion of said second end in a
nostril. The longitudinal flanges may include protuberances that
abut the open end of said lower arm of said housing when assembled.
In addition, the nasal adaptor may also comprise a circular flange
at substantially the first end of said nasal adaptor.
[0015] In an alternate adaptation, the nasal adaptor has a circular
flange positioned between said first end and second end. This
circular flange may be contiguous with a rim which fits snugly over
the lower arm of said housing when assembled.
[0016] In a second embodiment of the invention, a nasal adaptor for
an oral inhaler device, comprises a sleeve and a hollow cylinder at
the base of said sleeve, such that when said nasal adaptor is
assembled with a modified version of an oral inhaler device said
cylinder is available for insertion in a nostril.
[0017] The modification of the oral inhaler device is to the
housing, wherein said lower arm is capable of detachment at a point
along the lower arm, and said lower arm is detached when said nasal
adaptor is assembled with said oral inhaler device.
[0018] In a third embodiment of the invention, a nasal adaptor for
an oral inhaler device, has a first end and a second end, such that
when said nasal adaptor is assembled with a modified version of an
oral inhaler device the second end of said nasal adaptor is
available for insertion in a nostril. The modification of the oral
inhaler device is to the housing, wherein said lower arm is capable
of detachment at a point along the lower arm, and said lower arm is
detached when said nasal adaptor is assembled with said oral
inhaler device. The nasal adaptor's first end and second end are
the ends of a tube, and said first end has a circumference that is
the same as or greater than said second end. The nasal adaptor has
a circular flange positioned between said first end and second end.
The circular flange may be contiguous with a rim at right angles
projecting towards the first end, which fits snugly over the
remainder of the lower arm of said housing and is partially carved
out to abut the upper arm of said housing, when in assembly.
[0019] A further embodiment of the invention is the method of
assembling a nasal adaptor with an oral inhaler device comprised of
a housing and canister containing inhalant, said housing having an
upper arm and a lower arm, by inserting the first end of said nasal
adaptor into the lower arm of said housing.
[0020] A further embodiment of the invention is the method of
assembling a nasal adaptor with an oral inhaler device comprised of
a housing and canister containing inhalant, said housing having an
upper arm and a lower arm, which lower arm is capable of detachment
at a point along the lower arm, by detaching the lower arm and
pushing the upper arm into said sleeve so that said cylinder is in
the spatial position formerly occupied by said lower arm.
[0021] A further embodiment of the invention is the method of
assembling a nasal adaptor with an oral inhaler device comprised of
a housing and canister containing inhalant, said housing having an
upper arm and a lower arm, which lower arm is capable of detachment
at a point along the lower arm, by detaching the lower arm and
inserting the first end of said nasal adaptor into the remaining
lower arm of said housing.
[0022] A further embodiment is a kit comprising a nasal adaptor and
one of either: [0023] a. an oral inhaler device; [0024] b. a
housing for holding a canister containing inhalant; [0025] c. a
canister containing inhalant; or [0026] d. a housing in which the
lower arm may be detached.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of an oral metered
dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 1 of the
invention;
[0028] FIG. 2 is a side view of an oral metered dose inhaler device
and nasal adaptor of embodiment 1, in assembly;
[0029] FIG. 3 is a front view of an oral metered dose inhaler
device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 1, in assembly;
[0030] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the assembly shown
in FIG. 3;
[0031] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an oral metered
dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 2 of the
invention;
[0032] FIG. 6 is a side view of an oral metered dose inhaler device
and nasal adaptor of embodiment 2, in assembly;
[0033] FIG. 7 is a front view of an oral metered dose inhaler
device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 2, in assembly;
[0034] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional side view of the assembly shown
in FIG. 7;
[0035] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of an oral metered
dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 3 of the
invention;
[0036] FIG. 10 is a side view of an oral metered dose inhaler
device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 3, in assembly;
[0037] FIG. 11 is a front view of an oral metered dose inhaler
device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 3, in assembly;
[0038] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional side view of the assembly shown
in FIG. 11;
[0039] FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of an oral metered
dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 4 of the
invention;
[0040] FIG. 14 is a side view of an oral metered dose inhaler
device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 4, in assembly;
[0041] FIG. 15 is a front view of an oral metered dose inhaler
device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 4, in assembly;
[0042] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional side view of the assembly shown
in FIG. 15;
[0043] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of an oral metered
dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 5 of the
invention;
[0044] FIG. 18 is a side view of an oral metered dose inhaler
device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 5, in assembly;
[0045] FIG. 19 is a front view of an oral metered dose inhaler
device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 5, in assembly;
[0046] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional side view of the assembly shown
in FIG. 19;
[0047] FIG. 21 is a side view of an oral metered dose inhaler
housing of embodiment 6 with detachable lower arm;
[0048] FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of a modified oral
metered dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 6;
[0049] FIG. 23 is a side view of a modified oral metered dose
inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 6, in assembly;
[0050] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a modified oral metered
dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 6, in
assembly;
[0051] FIG. 25 is a side view of an oral metered dose inhaler
housing of embodiment 6 with detachable lower arm;
[0052] FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of a modified oral
metered dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 7;
[0053] FIG. 27 is a side view of a modified oral metered dose
inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 7, in assembly;
[0054] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a modified oral metered
dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 7, in
assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0055] Normally persons at rest breathe through the nose, the
natural entrance to the mammalian airways. Allergens and irritants
in the air are largely deposited in the nasal cavities and to a
lesser degree, in the bronchi. Allergic inflammation in the entire
airway mucosa would be expected in allergy sufferers, whether the
predominant symptom is rhinitis, asthma or both.
[0056] Since rhinitis and asthma often occur together, the standard
treatment of allergic rhinitis and asthma consists of topical
anti-inflammatory administered intra-nasally and inhaled through
the mouth. However, nasal delivery alone is a preferred method to
deliver medication to the site of inflammation and avoid side
effects such as oral candidiasis.
[0057] The nasal adaptor of the present invention, fitted to the
lower arm of an oral metered dose aerosol inhaler provides the
means to simultaneously administer drug to the nasal mucosa and
down to the bronchial tree and lungs. In this manner a nasally
delivered anti-inflammatory agent would travel down the same route
as an allergen would--the nostril, nasal cavity, nasopharynx,
trachea, bronchi and lung tissues.
[0058] The nasal adaptor may be modified to fit oral inhaler
devices of various shapes and sizes. The canister can be filled
with an inhalant that is suitable for nasal delivery. Such inhalant
may be anything capable of improving health, preventing disease and
treating conditions, such as medicines, vaccines, chemotherapeutics
etc. The nasal adaptor may replace or be added to the lower arm of
the oral dispensing device housing. As such, the nasal adaptor may
be inserted in or fitted over the lower arm of the housing, or be
added to the housing after the lower arm is modified by removal of
the whole or a portion.
[0059] The nasal adaptor provides a smaller circumference than the
orally adapted lower arm of the housing at the point of entry into
the nostril. The nasal adaptor is most effective if it is designed
to minimize the amount of inhalant lost, and to minimize any
inhalant lost due to the presence of the nasal adaptor. The most
desired nasal adaptor is designed to direct flow of the medication
into the nostril.
[0060] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of an oral metered
dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 1 of the
invention. The oral metered dose inhaler device is comprised of an
elbow shaped housing and a canister containing the inhalant to be
delivered. The nasal adaptor 10 is sized to fit snugly within lower
arm 90 of housing 70 when in assembly. The nasal adaptor 10 is
fitted with flanges 15 that assist in providing a snug fit and the
protuberances 20 on each flange secure the position of the nasal
adaptor in lower arm 90 of the housing 70 when in assembly. The
nasal adaptor 10 has a first end 30 and a second end 50. The first
end 30 of the nasal adaptor 10 of embodiment 1 is sized to fit
snugly within the circumference of the lower arm 90 of the housing
70, and taper to the second end 50 sized to fit in a nostril. The
housing 70 is elbow shaped and the upper arm 80 is contiguous with
lower arm 90. The housing 70 is shown with a cutaway to expose the
valve housing 100 at the base of the upper arm 80. The canister 120
has a dispensing valve 130.
[0061] FIG. 2 is a side view of an oral metered dose inhaler device
and nasal adaptor of embodiment 1, in assembly. The canister 120
containing an inhalant, as well as a propellant and possibly other
ingredients such as surfactant, is placed in the upper arm 80 of
the housing 70 so that the dispensing valve 130 rests within valve
housing 100. The nasal adaptor 10 fits snugly within the lower arm
90 of the housing 70. The nasal adaptor 10 is fitted into the lower
arm 90 of the housing 70 such that the protuberances 20 abut the
open end of the lower arm 90. When the canister 120 is depressed
into the upper arm 80 of the housing 70, the dispensing valve 130
is depressed against the floor 105 of the valve housing 100,
causing the release of pressurized inhalant out of an aperture in
dispensing valve 130 and through an aperture 140 in housing valve
100, which aperture 140 sits in concavity 145 in housing valve 100.
The inhalant then travels through lower arm 90, through first end
30 and second end 50 in the nasal adaptor 10. In actual use, the
second end 50 of the nasal adaptor would be placed in a nostril and
the medication would travel out of the second end 50 in the nasal
adaptor 10 and into the nostril, through the airways to the lungs,
depositing the inhalant throughout.
[0062] The details of the housing such as the aperture 140 and
concavity 145 are provided to demonstrate how the invention of a
nasal adaptor works in this particular canister and housing
environment.
[0063] FIG. 3 is a front view of a metered dose inhaler device and
nasal adaptor embodiment 1, in assembly. This view demonstrates
that the aperture 140 of the valve housing 100 is lined up within
the circumference of the second end 50 of the nasal adaptor 10.
[0064] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view sectioned along the
arrows of the assembly shown in FIG. 3. This view demonstrates that
the aperture 140 of the valve housing 100 is lined up within the
circumference of both the first end 30 and second end 50 of the
nasal adaptor 10.
[0065] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an oral metered
dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 2 of the
invention. The oral metered dose inhaler device is comprised of an
elbow shaped housing and a canister containing the inhalant to be
delivered. The nasal adaptor 10 is sized to fit snugly within the
lower arm 90 of housing 70. The nasal adaptor 10 is fitted with
flanges 15 that assist in providing a snug fit and the
protuberances 20 on each flange secure its position in lower arm 90
of the housing 70. The nasal adaptor has a first end 30 and a
second end 50 of approximately the same circumference. The second
end 50 is sized to fit in a nostril. The housing 70 is elbow shaped
and the upper arm 80 is contiguous with lower arm 90. The housing
70 is shown with a cutaway to expose the valve housing 100 at the
base of the upper arm 80. The canister 120 has a dispensing valve
130.
[0066] FIG. 6 is a side view of an oral metered dose inhaler device
and nasal adaptor embodiment 2, in assembly. The canister 120
containing an inhalant, a propellant and possibly other ingredients
such as surfactant, is placed in the upper arm 80 of the housing 70
so that the dispensing valve 130 fits into the valve housing 100.
The nasal adaptor 10 fits snugly in the lower arm 90 of the housing
70. The nasal adaptor 10 is fitted into the lower arm 90 of the
housing 70 such that the protuberances 20 abut the open end of the
lower arm 90. When the canister is depressed into the upper arm 80
of the housing 70, the dispensing valve 130 is depressed against
the floor 105 of the valve housing 100, causing the release of
pressurized inhalant out of an opening in dispensing valve 130 and
through an aperture 140 in housing valve 100, which aperture 140
sits in concavity 145 in housing valve 100. The inhalant then
travels through lower arm 90, through first end 30 and second end
50 in the nasal adaptor 10. In actual use, the second end 50 of the
nasal adaptor 10 would be placed in a nostril and the inhalant
would travel out of the second end 50 in the nasal adaptor 10 and
into the nostril, through the airways to the lungs, depositing the
inhalant throughout.
[0067] FIG. 7 is a front view of an oral metered dose inhaler
device and nasal adaptor embodiment 2, in assembly. This view
demonstrates that the aperture 140 of the valve housing 100 is
lined up within the circumference of the second end 50 of the nasal
adaptor 10.
[0068] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional side view sectioned along the
arrows of the assembly shown in FIG. 7. This view demonstrates the
positioning of the aperture 140 of the valve housing 100 within the
circumference of first end 30 and second end 50 of the nasal
adaptor 10.
[0069] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of an oral metered
dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 3 of the
invention. The oral metered dose inhaler device is comprised of an
elbow shaped housing and a canister containing the inhalant to be
delivered. The nasal adaptor 10 is sized to fit snugly within the
lower arm 90 of housing 70. The nasal adaptor 10 is fitted with
flanges 15 that assist in providing a snug fit and the
protuberances 20 on each flange secure its position in lower arm 90
of the housing 70. The nasal adaptor has a first end 30 and a
second end 50 of approximately the same circumference. The first
end 30 is flush with the first end of the flanges. The second end
50 is sized to fit in a nostril. The housing 70 is elbow shaped and
the upper arm 80 is contiguous with lower arm 90. The housing 70 is
shown with a cutaway to expose the valve housing 100 at the base of
the upper arm 80. The canister 120 has a dispensing valve 130.
[0070] FIG. 10 is a side view of an oral metered dose inhaler
device and nasal adaptor embodiment 3, in assembly. The canister
120 containing an inhalant, a propellant and possibly other
ingredients such as surfactant, is placed in the upper arm 80 of
the housing 70 so that the dispensing valve 130 fits into the valve
housing 100. The nasal adaptor 10 fits snugly in the lower arm 90
of the housing 70. The nasal adaptor 10 is fitted into the lower
arm 90 of the housing 70 such that the protuberances 20 abut the
open end of the lower arm 90. When the canister is depressed into
the upper arm 80 of the housing 70, the dispensing valve 130 is
depressed against the floor 105 of the valve housing 100, causing
the release of pressurized inhalant out of an opening in dispensing
valve 130 and through an aperture 140 in housing valve 100, which
aperture 140 sits in concavity 145 in housing valve 100. The
inhalant then travels through lower arm 90, through first end 30
and second end 50 in the nasal adaptor 10. In actual use, the
second end 50 of the nasal adaptor 10 would be placed in a nostril
and the inhalant would travel out of the second end 50 in the nasal
adaptor 10 and into the nostril, through the airways to the lungs,
depositing the inhalant throughout.
[0071] FIG. 11 is a front view of a metered dose inhaler device and
nasal adaptor embodiment 3, in assembly. This view demonstrates
that the aperture 140 of the valve housing 100 is lined up within
the circumference of the second end 50 of the nasal adaptor 10.
[0072] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional side view sectioned along the
arrows of the assembly shown in FIG. 7. This view demonstrates the
positioning of the aperture 140 of the valve housing 100 within the
circumference of first end 30 and second end 50 of the nasal
adaptor 10.
[0073] FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of an oral metered
dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 4 of the
invention. The oral metered dose inhaler device is comprised of an
elbow shaped housing 70 and a canister 120 containing the inhalant
to be delivered. The nasal adaptor 10 is sized to fit snugly within
lower arm 90 of the housing 70. The nasal adaptor 10 is fitted with
flanges 15 that assist in providing a snug fit and the
protuberances 20 on each flange secure its position in the housing
70. The nasal adaptor 10 has an encircling flange 35 at first end
30. The nasal adaptor has a first end 30 and a second end 50 of
approximately the same circumference. The second end 50 is sized to
fit in a nostril. The housing 70 is elbow shaped and the upper arm
80 is contiguous with lower arm 90. The housing 70 is shown with a
cutaway to expose the valve housing 100 at the base of the upper
arm 80. The canister 120 has a dispensing valve 130.
[0074] FIG. 14 is a side view of an oral metered dose inhaler
device and nasal adaptor embodiment 4, in assembly. The canister
120 containing an inhalant, a propellant and possibly other
ingredients such as surfactant, is placed in the upper arm 80 of
the housing 70 so that the dispensing valve 130 fits into the valve
housing 100. The nasal adaptor 10 fits snugly in the lower arm 90
of the housing 70. The nasal adaptor 10 is fitted into the lower
arm 90 of the housing 70 such that the protuberances 20 abut the
open end of the lower arm 90. When the canister is depressed into
the upper arm 80 of the housing 70, the dispensing valve 130 is
depressed against the floor 105 of the valve housing 100, causing
the release of pressurized inhalant out of an opening in dispensing
valve 130 and through an aperture 140 in housing valve 100, which
aperture 140 sits in concavity 145 in housing valve 100. The
inhalant then travels through lower arm 90, through first end 30
and second end 50 in the nasal adaptor 10. In actual use, the
second end 50 of the nasal adaptor 10 would be placed in a nostril
and the inhalant would travel out of the second end 50 in the nasal
adaptor 10 and into the nostril, through the airways to the lungs,
depositing the inhalant throughout.
[0075] FIG. 15 is a front view of a metered dose inhaler housing
and nasal adaptor of embodiment 4, in assembly. This view
demonstrates that the aperture 140 of the valve housing 100 is
lined up within the circumference of the second end 50 of the nasal
adaptor 10.
[0076] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional side view sectioned along the
arrows of the assembly shown in FIG. 7. This view demonstrates the
positioning of the aperture 140 of the valve housing 100 within the
circumference of first end 30 and second end 50 of the nasal
adaptor 10.
[0077] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of an oral metered
dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 5 of the
invention. The oral metered dose inhaler device is comprised of an
elbow shaped housing and a canister containing the inhalant to be
delivered. The nasal adaptor 10 is sized to fit snugly within lower
arm 90 of the housing 70. The nasal adaptor has a first end 30 and
a second end 50 of approximately the same circumference. The nasal
adaptor 10 has an encircling flange 35, positioned between first
end 30 and second end 50, that abuts the open end of the lower arm
90 when in assembly. The encircling flange 35 is contiguous with a
rim 160 that fits snugly over the lower arm 90 of the housing 70,
when in assembly. The second end 50 is sized to fit in a nostril.
The housing 70 is elbow shaped and the upper arm 80 is contiguous
with lower arm 90. The housing 70 is shown with a cutaway to expose
the valve housing 100 at the base of the upper arm 80. The canister
120 has a dispensing valve 130.
[0078] FIG. 18 is a side view of an oral metered dose inhaler
device and nasal adaptor embodiment 5, in assembly. The canister
120 containing an inhalant, a propellant and possibly other
ingredients such as surfactant, is placed in the upper arm 80 of
the housing 70 so that the dispensing valve 130 fits into the valve
housing 100. The nasal adaptor 10 fits snugly with the lower arm 90
of the housing 70. The nasal adaptor 10 is fitted into the lower
arm 90 of the housing 70 such that the encircling flange 35 abuts
the open end of the lower arm 90. When the canister is depressed
into the upper arm 80 of the housing 70, the dispensing valve 130
is depressed against the floor 105 of the valve housing 100,
causing the release of pressurized inhalant out of an opening in
dispensing valve 130 and through an aperture 140 in housing valve
100, which aperture 140 sits in concavity 145 in housing valve 100.
The inhalant then travels through lower arm 90, through first end
30 and second end 50 in the nasal adaptor 10. In actual use, the
second end 50 of the nasal adaptor 10 would be placed in a nostril
and the inhalant would travel out of the second end 50 in the nasal
adaptor 10 and into the nostril, through the airways to the lungs,
depositing the inhalant throughout.
[0079] FIG. 19 is a front view of a metered dose inhaler device and
nasal adaptor embodiment 5, in assembly. This view demonstrates
that the aperture 140 of the valve housing 100 is lined up within
the circumference of the second end 50 of the nasal adaptor 10.
[0080] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional side view sectioned along the
arrows of the assembly shown in FIG. 7. This view demonstrates the
positioning of the aperture 140 of the valve housing 100 within the
circumference of first end 30 and second end 50 of the nasal
adaptor 10. It also demonstrates that the inhalant would not pass
through encircling flange 35.
[0081] FIG. 21 is a side view of an oral metered dose inhaler
housing 70 of embodiment 6 with break line 210. The housing 70 is
elbow shaped with upper arm 80 contiguous with lower arm 90.
[0082] FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of a modified oral
metered dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 6. The
oral metered dose inhaler device is comprised of an elbow shaped
housing 70 and a canister 120 containing the inhalant to be
delivered. The lower arm 90 is detachable from the housing at break
line 210. The housing is shown with a cutaway to expose the valve
housing 100 at the base of the upper arm 80. The canister has a
dispensing valve 130. The nasal adaptor 10 has a sleeve 230 from
which a cylinder 240 projects.
[0083] FIG. 23 is a side view of a modified oral metered dose
inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 6, in assembly. The
canister 120 containing an inhalant, a propellant and possibly
other ingredients such as surfactant, is placed in the upper arm 80
of the housing 70 so that the dispensing valve 130 fits into the
valve housing 100. The sleeve 230 of the nasal adaptor 10 fits over
the lower portion of upper arm 80 and cylinder 240 is in the
spatial position formerly occupied by said lower arm. When the
canister is depressed into the upper arm 80 of the housing 70, the
dispensing valve 130 is depressed against the floor 105 of the
valve housing 100, causing the release of pressurized inhalant out
of an opening in dispensing valve 130 and through an aperture 140
in housing valve 100, which aperture 140 sits in concavity 145 in
housing valve 100. The inhalant then travels through cylinder 240
in the nasal adaptor 10. In actual use, the cylinder 240 would be
placed in a nostril and the inhalant would travel into the nostril,
through the airways to the lungs, depositing the inhalant
throughout.
[0084] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a modified oral metered
dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 6, in
assembly.
[0085] FIG. 25 is a side view of an oral metered dose inhaler
device housing 70 of embodiment 7 with break line 210. The housing
70 is elbow shaped with upper arm 80 contiguous with a first lower
arm 96 that is contiguous with a second lower arm 92.
[0086] FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of a modified oral
metered dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 7. The
oral metered dose inhaler device is comprised of an elbow shaped
housing 70 and a canister 120 containing the inhalant to be
delivered. The second lower arm 92 is broken off of the housing at
break line 210. The housing is shown with a cutaway to expose the
valve housing 100 at the base of the upper arm 80. The canister 120
has a dispensing valve 130. The nasal adaptor 10 is sized to fit
snugly within lower arm 96 of the housing 70. The nasal adaptor has
a first end 30 and a second end 50 of approximately the same
circumference. The nasal adaptor 10 has an encircling flange 35,
positioned between first end 30 and second end 50, that abuts the
open end of lower arm 96 when in assembly. The encircling flange 35
is contiguous with a rim 160 that fits snugly over the lower arm 96
of the housing 70, when in assembly. The rim 160 is indented where
it meets upper arm 80 so as to fit flush against upper arm 80. The
second end 50 is sized to fit in a nostril.
[0087] FIG. 27 is a side view of a modified oral metered dose
inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 7, in assembly. The
canister 120 containing an inhalant, a propellant and possibly
other ingredients such as surfactant, is placed in the upper arm 80
of the housing 70 so that the dispensing valve 130 fits into the
valve housing 100. The rim 160 of the nasal adaptor 10 fits over
first lower arm 96 when in assembly, and encircling flange 35 abuts
the open end of first lower arm 96. When the canister is depressed
into the upper arm 80 of the housing 70, the dispensing valve 130
is depressed against the floor 105 of the valve housing 100,
causing the release of pressurized inhalant out of an opening in
dispensing valve 130 and through an aperture 140 in housing valve
100, which aperture 140 sits in concavity 145 in housing valve 100.
The inhalant then travels through first end 30 and second end 50 in
the nasal adaptor 10. In actual use, second end 50 would be placed
in a nostril and the inhalant would travel into the nostril,
through the airways to the lungs, depositing the inhalant
throughout.
[0088] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a modified oral metered
dose inhaler device and nasal adaptor of embodiment 7, in
assembly.
[0089] The nasal adaptors of embodiments 1, 4 and 5 found in FIGS.
1 through 4, 13 through 22 prevent medication and propellant
escaping the housing and being deposited on the face or in the eyes
of the patient, or just simply dissipating. The other nasal
adaptors could also be modified to prevent this problem, either
through modification of the nasal adaptor itself or the addition of
a cap or other cover to shield the face and eyes.
[0090] The nasal adaptors may be comprised of any substance that
will provide a passage for an inhalant and is safe for insertion in
the nostril, such as plastics and polypropylene. The nasal adaptor
may be rigid or flexible or a combination to provide extra comfort
when inserted into the nostril.
[0091] Caps can also be added to the inhaler just as are provided
with present inhalers which include a cover for the open end of the
lower arm of the housing. Such caps may be secured to the housing
for convenience and to avoid loss of the cap. Such caps may be
adapted so that they fit on the lower arm of the housing with and
without the nasal adaptor.
[0092] The present invention includes a kit comprising the canister
containing the inhalant for delivery, housing, nasal adaptor and
optionally a cap. Accordingly, the nasal adaptor may be discarded
from the kit if the desired delivery is oral, or fitted onto the
housing if the desired delivery is nasal. In addition, a kit may
also include a housing and nasal adaptor or may include a nasal
adaptor and canister.
[0093] While the above description represents the preferred
embodiments of the present invention, it will be obvious that a
variety of configurations not illustrated herein might well be
implemented without departing from the scope of the invention or
fair meaning of the accompanying claims. This includes the
adaptation of nasal adaptors to fit varying designs of oral metered
dose aerosol inhalers.
* * * * *