U.S. patent application number 15/399239 was filed with the patent office on 2017-04-27 for apparatus and methods for ocular injection.
This patent application is currently assigned to Clearside Biomedical, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Clearside Biomedical, Inc.. Invention is credited to Rafael Victor ANDINO, Justin William ARSENAULT, Andrew Kent BAUER, Christopher John BROOKS, Trent John KAHUTE, Stephanie Elaine LEWIS, David Jackson TRETTIN, Jesse YOO, Vladimir ZARNITSYN.
Application Number | 20170112665 15/399239 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51844124 |
Filed Date | 2017-04-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170112665 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
ANDINO; Rafael Victor ; et
al. |
April 27, 2017 |
APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR OCULAR INJECTION
Abstract
An apparatus includes a housing coupled to a medicament
container, which is coupled to a needle. An injection assembly is
disposed within the housing and includes an energy storage member
and an actuation rod. A distal end portion of the actuation rod is
disposed within the medicament container. The energy storage member
can produce a force on a proximal end portion of the actuation rod
sufficient to move the distal end portion of the actuation rod
within the medicament container. This can convey at least a portion
of a substance from the medicament container via the needle when a
distal tip of the needle is disposed within a first region of a
target location. The force is insufficient to move the distal end
portion of the actuation rod within the medicament container when
the distal tip of the needle is disposed within a second region of
the target location.
Inventors: |
ANDINO; Rafael Victor;
(Grayson, GA) ; ZARNITSYN; Vladimir; (Atlanta,
GA) ; YOO; Jesse; (Snellville, GA) ; BROOKS;
Christopher John; (Glen Cove, NY) ; KAHUTE; Trent
John; (Atlanta, GA) ; ARSENAULT; Justin William;
(Atlanta, GA) ; TRETTIN; David Jackson; (Atlanta,
GA) ; BAUER; Andrew Kent; (Atlanta, GA) ;
LEWIS; Stephanie Elaine; (Atlanta, GA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Clearside Biomedical, Inc. |
Alpharetta |
GA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Clearside Biomedical, Inc.
Alpharetta
GA
|
Family ID: |
51844124 |
Appl. No.: |
15/399239 |
Filed: |
January 5, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14268687 |
May 2, 2014 |
9539139 |
|
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15399239 |
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61953147 |
Mar 14, 2014 |
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61944214 |
Feb 25, 2014 |
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61827371 |
May 24, 2013 |
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61819052 |
May 3, 2013 |
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61819048 |
May 3, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 5/34 20130101; A61F
2250/0069 20130101; A61J 1/2055 20150501; A61M 5/344 20130101; A61M
37/0015 20130101; A61M 5/482 20130101; A61M 5/46 20130101; A61M
5/346 20130101; A61J 1/201 20150501; A61M 5/31 20130101; A61M
5/3293 20130101; A61M 5/347 20130101; A61F 2250/0007 20130101; A61M
2210/0612 20130101; A61M 5/348 20130101; A61J 1/2096 20130101; A61M
5/349 20130101; A61M 2037/0061 20130101; A61M 2005/31508 20130101;
A61M 5/2033 20130101; A61M 2037/0023 20130101; A61M 5/2053
20130101; A61F 9/0017 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61F 9/00 20060101
A61F009/00; A61M 5/20 20060101 A61M005/20; A61M 5/48 20060101
A61M005/48; A61M 5/32 20060101 A61M005/32; A61M 5/46 20060101
A61M005/46; A61M 37/00 20060101 A61M037/00; A61J 1/20 20060101
A61J001/20 |
Claims
1. A method, comprising: inserting a distal end portion of a
puncture member of a medical injector into a target tissue to
define a delivery passageway within the target tissue and such that
a distal end surface of a hub of the medical injector is in contact
with a target surface of the target tissue; exerting a force on an
actuation rod of the medical injector when the distal end surface
of the hub is in contact with the target surface, the force having
a magnitude of less than a threshold value, the force produces
movement within the medical injector of both an adjustment member
and the puncture member when the distal end portion of the puncture
member is disposed within a first region of the target tissue, the
puncture member being fixedly coupled to the adjustment member,
movement of both the adjustment member and the puncture member
within the medical injector being limited when the distal end
portion of the puncture member is disposed within a second region
of the target tissue; and conveying, in response to the exerting, a
substance from the medicament container into the target tissue via
the puncture member when the distal end portion of the puncture
member is disposed within the second region of the target
tissue.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the force is insufficient to
convey the substance from the medicament container into the target
tissue via the puncture member when the distal end portion of the
puncture member is disposed within the first region of the target
tissue.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the exerting the force on the
actuation rod includes causing movement within the medical injector
of the puncture member such that the distal end portion of the
puncture member is moved from within the first region of the target
tissue to the second region of the target tissue.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the force is sufficient to
overcome a backpressure of the second region such that movement of
the distal end portion of the puncture member relative to the hub
is reduced and the substance is conveyed into the target tissue
when the distal end portion of the puncture member moves from the
first region to the second region.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the adjustment member is moved
within the medical injector via hydraulics.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the threshold value is about 6
N.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein: the inserting is performed such
that a centerline of the delivery passageway and a surface line
tangential to the target surface defines an angle of entry of
between about 75 degrees and about 105 degrees.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the target tissue is an eye and
the target surface is any one of a conjunctiva of the eye or a
sclera of the eye, the substance being at least one of a VEGF, a
VEGF inhibitor, a PDGFR inhibitor, or a combination thereof.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein: the target tissue is an eye, the
target surface is any one of a conjunctiva of the eye or a sclera
of the eye, the second region includes at least one of a
suprachoroidal space, a lower portion of the sclera, a choroid of
the eye, a subretinal space of the eye, or a retina of the eye.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the first region is an upper
portion of a sclera of the eye.
11. The method of claim 1, wherein the inserting includes deforming
the target surface with the distal end surface of the hub.
12. The method of claim 1, wherein the distal end surface of the
hub includes a sealing portion configured to define a fluid-tight
seal with the target surface, the sealing portion being symmetrical
about a centerline of the puncture member.
13. The method of claim 1, wherein the inserting is performed
before the exerting is performed.
14. The method of claim 1, wherein the exerting the force on the
actuation rod causes the actuation rod, the adjustment member, and
the puncture member to move linearly within the medical injector
when the distal end portion of the puncture member is disposed
within the first region of the target tissue.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the exerting the force on the
actuation rod causes the actuation rod to move linearly within the
medical injector when the distal end portion of the puncture member
is disposed within the second region of the target tissue such that
the substance from the medicament container is conveyed into the
target tissue via the puncture member.
16. The method of 1, further comprising: during the exerting the
force on the actuation rod, maintaining a force on the medical
injector such that the hub forms a substantially fluid-tight seal
with the target surface.
17. A method, comprising: inserting a distal end portion of a
puncture member of a medical injector into a target tissue to
define a delivery passageway within the target tissue; applying a
force to a hub of the medical injector such that a distal end
surface of the hub contacts a target surface of the target tissue
to fluidically isolate the delivery passageway; and while
maintaining the force, moving the puncture member relative to the
hub such that a distal end portion of the puncture member moves
from a first region within the target tissue to a second region
with the target tissue, a substance from a medicament container
within the medical injector being conveyed to the target tissue in
response to the distal end portion of the puncture member being
disposed in the second region and not the first region.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein the adjustment member is moved
within the medical injector via hydraulics.
19. The method of claim 17, wherein the force is less than about 6
N.
20. The method of claim 17, wherein: the inserting is performed
such that a centerline of the delivery passageway and a surface
line tangent to the target surface defines an angle of entry of
between about 75 degrees and about 105 degrees.
21. The method of claim 17, wherein the target tissue is an eye and
the target surface is any one of a conjunctiva of the eye or a
sclera of the eye, the substance being at least one of a VEGF, a
VEGF inhibitor, a PDGFR inhibitor, or a combination thereof.
22. The method of claim 17, wherein: the target tissue is an eye,
the target surface is any one of a conjunctiva of the eye or a
sclera of the eye, the second region includes at least one of a
suprachoroidal space, a lower portion of the sclera, a choroid of
the eye, a subretinal space of the eye, or a retina of the eye.
23. The method of claim 22, wherein the first region is an upper
portion of a sclera of the eye.
24. A method, comprising: inserting a distal end portion of a
puncture member of a medical injector into a first region of a
target tissue to define a delivery passageway within the target
tissue, the puncture member placing a substance within a medicament
container of the medical injector in fluid communication with the
first region, an adjustment member being movably disposed within
the medical injector and forming a substantially fluid-tight seal
with a side wall of medical injector; after the inserting and with
the distal end portion of the puncture member disposed in the first
region of the target tissue, exerting a force on the adjustment
member such that the force in conjunction with the substantially
fluid-tight seal produces movement of the distal end portion of the
puncture member from the first region to a second region of the
target tissue; and conveying, in response to the exerting, a
substance from the medicament container into the target tissue via
the puncture member when the distal end portion of the puncture
member is disposed within the second region of the target
tissue.
25. The method of claim 24, wherein the force is insufficient to
overcome a backpressure of the first region to convey the
medicament into the target tissue via the puncture member when the
distal end portion of the puncture member is disposed within the
first region, the force being sufficient to overcome a frictional
force formed by the substantially fluid-tight seal such that the
force produces distal movement of the adjustment member within the
medical injector.
26. The method of claim 25, wherein the force is sufficient to
overcome a backpressure of the second region to convey the
medicament into the target tissue via the puncture member when the
distal end portion of the puncture member is disposed within the
second region.
27. The method of claim 24, wherein the adjustment member is moved
within the medical injector via hydraulics.
28. The method of claim 24, wherein: the target tissue is an eye,
the target surface is any one of a conjunctiva of the eye or a
sclera of the eye, the second region includes at least one of a
suprachoroidal space, a lower portion of the sclera, a choroid of
the eye, a subretinal space of the eye, or a retina of the eye.
29. The method of claim 28, wherein the first region is an upper
portion of a sclera of the eye.
30. The method of 24, further comprising: during the exerting the
force on the actuation rod, maintaining a force on the medical
injector such that the hub forms a substantially fluid-tight seal
with the target surface.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/268,687 entitled Apparatus and Methods for
Ocular Injection, filed May 2, 2014, which claims priority to and
benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/953,147,
entitled "Apparatus and Methods for Ocular Injection," filed Mar.
14, 2014, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/944,214,
entitled "Apparatus and Methods for Controlling the Insertion Depth
of a Needle," filed Feb. 25, 2014, U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/827,371, entitled "Apparatus and Methods for
Ocular Injection," filed May 24, 2013, U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/819,052, entitled "Apparatus and Methods for
Delivering a Drug to Ocular Tissue," filed May 3, 2013, and U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 61/819,048, entitled "Apparatus
and Methods for Controlling the Insertion Depth of a Needle," filed
May 3, 2013, the disclosures of each of which are incorporated
herein by reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The embodiments described herein relate generally to the
field of ophthalmic therapies and more particularly to the use of a
microneedle for delivery and/or removal of a substance, such as a
fluid therapeutic agent into and/or from ocular tissues for
treatment of the eye.
[0003] Although needles are used in transdermal and intraocular
drug delivery, there remains a need for improved microneedle
devices and methods, particularly for delivery of substances (e.g.,
drugs) into the posterior region of the eye. Many inflammatory and
proliferative diseases in the posterior region (or other regions)
of the eye require long-term pharmacological treatment. Examples of
such diseases include macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy,
and uveitis. It is often difficult to deliver effective doses of a
drug to the back of the eye using conventional delivery methods
such as topical application or an intravitreal administration
(IVT), which has poor efficacy, and systemic administration, which
often causes significant side effects. For example, while eye drops
are useful in treating conditions affecting the exterior surface of
the eye or tissues at the front of the eye, the eye drops are often
not sufficiently conveyed to the back of the eye, as may be
required for the treatment of some of the retinal diseases listed
above.
[0004] Although there have been advances in the past decade
regarding the utilization of systemically delivered substances,
there are obstacles to wide spread adoption of such methods. For
example, in certain situations, direct injection into the eye
(e.g., into the vitreous) using conventional 27 gauge or 30 gauge
needles and syringes can be effective. Direct injection, however,
can be associated with significant safety risks, and physicians
often require professional training to effectively perform such
methods. Moreover, in some instances, targeted injection of a
therapeutic agent is desirable. In such instances, however, the
relatively small anatomic structures of the eye often result in
significant challenges to placing a needle at a target location
using known devices and methods, especially as they pertain to
placing the distal end of the needle at the desired depth within
the eye. Furthermore, IVT administration can have side effects such
as increased intraocular pressure or faster onset of cataract
formation.
[0005] In addition, many known methods of direct injection of a
drug into the eye include inserting a needle or a cannula at an
acute angle relative to a surface of the eye, which can make
controlling the depth of insertion challenging. For example, some
such methods include controlling the angular orientation of the
needle such that the injected substance exits the needle at a
particular location. Moreover, some known methods of injecting
substances into ocular tissue include using complicated
visualization system or sensors to control the placement of the
needle or cannula.
[0006] Known devices for ocular injection do not provide the
mechanism for adjusting needle length so that the needle can be
inserted into the eye to the desired depth. Known systems also do
not provide a reliable mechanism for determining when the needle
tip is in the desired location, for example, the suprachoroidal
space (SCS) of the eye. Such shortcomings in known systems and
methods are exacerbated because the size and thickness of various
layers included in the eye can vary substantially from one person
to another. For example, the thickness of the conjunctiva and the
sclera can be substantially different and their true value cannot
easily be predetermined via standard techniques. Furthermore, the
thickness of these layers can also be different in different
portions of the eye and at different times of the day in the same
eye and location. Therefore, using known systems and methods it can
be challenging to determine and/or adjust the length of the needle
for puncturing the eye, such that a tip of the needle is at the
desired depth, for example, the SCS. Too short a needle might not
penetrate the sclera, and too long a needle can traverse beyond the
SCS and damage the retina of the eye. Further, known systems do not
provide a convenient way to detect the position of the needle tip
within the eye.
[0007] Because of the sensitivities associated with intraocular
injection (e.g., the sensitivity of the tissue, the potential
impact on intraocular pressure and the like), many known systems
involve manual injection. More particularly, many known devices and
methods include the user manually applying a force (e.g., via
pushing a plunger with their thumb or fingers) to expel a fluid
(e.g., a drug) into the eye. Because of the small needle size
and/or the characteristics of the injected drug, some such devices
and methods involve the use of force levels higher than that which
users are comfortable with applying. For example, some studies have
shown that users generally do not like to apply more than 2N force
against the eye during ocular injection. Accordingly, in certain
situations a user may not properly deliver the medicament using
known systems and methods because of their reluctance to apply the
force to fully expel the medicament.
[0008] Moreover, injection into different target layers of the eye
can cause variability in the amount of the force required for
insertion of the needle and/or injection of the medicament.
Different layers of the eye can have different densities. For
example, the sclera generally has a higher density than the
conjunctiva or the SCS. Differences in the density of the target
region or layer can produce different backpressure against the
needle exit, i.e., the tip of the needle from which the fluid
emerges. Thus, injection into a relatively dense ocular material
such as sclera requires more motive pressure to expel the
medicament from the needle than is required when injecting a
medicament into the SCS.
[0009] Furthermore, the injection force to expel the medicament
also depends on the density and viscosity of the liquid medicament,
length of the needle, and diameter of the needle. To inject certain
medicaments into the eye via desired needles (e.g., 27 gauge, 30
gauge, or even smaller) can require more force than many
practitioners are comfortable applying.
[0010] Intraocular injection can also lead to leakage of
intraocular fluids (e.g., aqueous and vitreous humour) or the
medicament from a delivery passageway formed by the needle
penetrating into the ocular tissue. By way of example, if the
medicament is delivered to the sclera instead of the target ocular
tissue layer, for example, the SCS, the high backpressure of the
sclera can force the medicament to leak from the insertion site.
Known systems do not provide a convenient way to prevent leakage
from insertion site, which can lead to discomfort and loss of
medicament. This can prolong treatment as well as increase costs
associated with the treatment.
[0011] Thus, a need exists for improved devices and methods, which
can assist in determining if the needle is at the correct depth,
can facilitate injection of the medicament into ocular tissue,
and/or can prevent leakage of ocular fluids and/or medicament form
the insertion site.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] The embodiments described herein relate generally to the
field of ophthalmic therapies and more particularly to the use of a
microneedle for delivery and/or removal of a substance, such as a
fluid therapeutic agent into and/or from ocular tissues for
treatment of the eye.
[0013] In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a housing
configured to be coupled to a medicament container. The medicament
container is configured to be coupled to a needle. An injection
assembly is disposed within the housing and includes an energy
storage member and an actuation rod. A distal end portion of the
actuation rod is configured to be disposed within the medicament
container. The energy storage member is configured to produce a
force on a proximal end portion of the actuation rod. The force is
sufficient to move the distal end portion of the actuation rod
within the medicament container to convey at least a portion of a
substance from the medicament container via the needle when a
distal tip of the needle is disposed within a first region of a
target location. Furthermore, the force is insufficient to move the
distal end portion of the actuation rod within the medicament
container when the distal tip of the needle is disposed within a
second region of the target location. In some embodiments, the
first region of the target location has a first density and the
second region of the target location has a second density, higher
than the first density. In some embodiments, the first region of
the target location produces a first backpressure and the second
region of the target location produces a second backpressure,
higher than the first backpressure.
[0014] In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a housing
configured to receive a portion of a medicament container, and an
adjustment member. A proximal end portion of the adjustment member
is configured to be coupled to the medicament container. A distal
end portion of the adjustment member is coupled to a needle. The
adjustment member is movably disposed within the housing such that
when the adjustment member is rotated relative to the housing, the
needle is moved through a plurality of discrete increments along a
longitudinal axis of the housing. In some embodiments, the
adjustment member defines a lumen configured to place the
medicament container in fluid communication with the needle.
[0015] In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a hub configured
to be coupled to a medical injector. The hub defines a passageway
configured to receive a needle therethrough. The hub has a convex
distal end surface that is configured to contact a target surface
of a target tissue when a substance is conveyed through the needle
into the target tissue. In some embodiments, the distal end surface
includes a sealing portion configured to define a substantially
fluid-tight seal with the target surface when the distal end
surface is in contact with the target surface. In such embodiments,
the sealing portion can be symmetrical about the centerline of the
passageway.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an illustration of the
human eye.
[0017] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the human
eye of FIG. 1 taken along the line 2-2.
[0018] FIGS. 3 and 4 are cross-sectional views of a portion of the
human eye of FIG. 1 taken along the line 3-3, illustrating the
suprachoroidal space without and with, respectively, the presence
of a fluid.
[0019] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of an apparatus that
includes a housing and an injection assembly in a first
configuration, according to an embodiment.
[0020] FIG. 6 shows the apparatus of FIG. 5 in a second
configuration, according to an embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a system for delivering a
medicament to an eye, according to an embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the system shown in FIG.
7.
[0023] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a system for delivering a
medicament to an eye that includes an injector assembly, according
to an embodiment.
[0024] FIG. 10 shows the system of FIG. 9 with a first portion of a
housing removed to show the injector assembly.
[0025] FIG. 11 shows an exploded view of the system of FIG. 10.
[0026] FIG. 12A shows a side view, FIG. 12B shows a front view, and
FIG. 12C shows a top view of an actuating member included in the
system of FIG. 9.
[0027] FIG. 13A shows a side view, FIG. 13B shows a front view, and
FIG. 13C shows a top view of a pawl included in the system of FIG.
9.
[0028] FIG. 14A shows a side view of an actuator included in the
system of FIG. 9. FIG. 14B shows a side cross-section view of the
actuator of FIG. 14A taken along the line 14B-14B.
[0029] FIG. 15 shows a side view of a guide rod included in the
system of FIG. 9.
[0030] FIGS. 16A-E shows side views of the system of FIG. 9 with a
first portion of the housing removed, the system shown in various
states of operation.
[0031] FIG. 17 show a flow diagram of a method for determining the
insertion depth in a target tissue of a needle included in a
medicament delivery device using an injection assembly, according
to an embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 18 show a flow diagram of a method for assisting a user
in determining the insertion depth in a target tissue of a needle
included in a medicament delivery device, and assisting the user in
medicament delivery using an injection assembly, according to an
embodiment.
[0033] FIG. 19 shows a schematic illustration of a medical injector
that includes an adjustment member in a first configuration,
according to an embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 20 shows the medical injector of FIG. 19 in a second
configuration.
[0035] FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of a system for delivering
a medicament to an eye that includes a needle assembly, according
to an embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 22 shows an exploded view of the needle assembly
included in the system of FIG. 21.
[0037] FIG. 23A, shows a top view, FIG. 23B shows a side view, and
FIG. 23C shows a side cross-section view (taken along the line
23C-23C) of a housing of the needle assembly of FIG. 22.
[0038] FIG. 24A shows a side view and FIG. 24B shows a top view of
a plug included in the needle assembly of FIG. 22.
[0039] FIG. 25 shows a perspective view of an adjustment member, a
lead screw and a puncturing member included in the needle assembly
of FIG. 22.
[0040] FIG. 26A shows a side view of the adjustment member included
in the needle assembly of FIG. 22. FIG. 26B shows a side
cross-section of the adjustment member of FIG. 26A taken along the
line 26B-26B.
[0041] FIG. 27A shows a side view of the lead screw included in the
needle assembly of FIG. 22. FIG. 27B shows a cross-section view of
the lead screw of FIG. 27A taken along the line 27B-27B.
[0042] FIG. 28A shows a side view and FIG. 28B shows a front view
of a bushing included in the needle assembly of FIG. 22. FIG. 28C
shows a cross-section view of the bushing of FIG. 28A taken along
the line 28C-28C.
[0043] FIG. 29 shows a side view of a locking pin included in the
needle assembly of FIG. 22.
[0044] FIG. 30A shows a side view and FIG. 30B shows a front view
of a tab coupled to the locking pin included in the needle assembly
of FIG. 22. FIG. 30C shows a cross-section view of the tab of FIG.
30A taken along the line 30C-30C.
[0045] FIG. 31A shows a side view and FIG. 31B shows a front view
of a hub included in the needle assembly of FIG. 22, according to
an embodiment. FIG. 31C shows a cross-section view of the hub of
FIG. 31A taken along the line 31C-31C.
[0046] FIG. 32 shows a perspective view of the needle assembly of
FIG. 22.
[0047] FIG. 33 shows a side cross-section view of the needle
assembly of FIG. 32 taken along the line 33-33.
[0048] FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a delivery
device according to an embodiment.
[0049] FIG. 35 is an enlarged portion of the eye identified in FIG.
1 as region Z and the portion of the delivery device of FIG. 34 in
use, in a first configuration.
[0050] FIG. 36 is the enlarged portion of the eye identified in
FIG. 1 as region Z and the portion of the delivery device of FIG.
34 in use, in a second configuration.
[0051] FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a delivery
device according to an embodiment.
[0052] FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a delivery
device according to an embodiment.
[0053] FIG. 39 shows a schematic illustration of a system for
delivering a medicament to an eye that includes a hub including a
sealing portion, according to an embodiment.
[0054] FIG. 40A shows a distal end surface of a hub included in the
system of FIG. 39 in contact with a conjunctiva of an eye and a
puncturing member included in the system of FIG. 39 inserted into
the sclera of the eye. FIG. 40B shows the distal end of the hub
compressing the conjunctiva, FIG. 40C shows the hub further
compressing the conjunctiva, and the distal end of the puncturing
member is disposed in proximity of a suprachoroidal space of the
eye and is delivering a medicament to the suprachoroidal space,
such that the sealing portion forms a substantially fluid tight
seal with the conjunctiva. FIG. 40D shows an angle .theta. formed
between a centerline of a delivery passageway formed by the
insertion of the puncturing member into the sclera of the eye and a
surface line tangent to the conjunctiva.
[0055] FIG. 41A shows a finite element analysis (FEA) model of the
hub of FIG. 40 A-D, pressed against the conjunctiva of an eye with
a 1N force. FIG. 41B shows an enlarged view of a portion shown by
the arrow 41B shown in FIG. 41A.
[0056] FIG. 42A shows a side view and FIG. 42B shows a front view
of a hub that includes a convex distal end, according to an
embodiment. FIG. 42C shows a cross-section view of the hub of FIG.
42A taken along the line 42C-42C.
[0057] FIG. 43A shows a side view and FIG. 43B shows a front view
of a hub that includes a convex distal end, according to an
embodiment. FIG. 43C shows a cross-section view of the hub of FIG.
43A taken along the line 43C-43C.
[0058] FIG. 44A-B show schematic illustrations of a hub included in
a medicament delivery system in a first configuration and a second
configuration respectively, according to an embodiment.
[0059] FIGS. 45A and 45B are schematic illustrations of a portion
of a delivery device according to an embodiment.
[0060] FIGS. 46 and 47 are perspective views of a portion of a
delivery device according to an embodiment.
[0061] FIG. 48 is a perspective view of a portion of a delivery
device according to an embodiment.
[0062] FIG. 49 is a perspective view of a portion of a delivery
device according to an embodiment.
[0063] FIG. 50 is a perspective view of a portion of a delivery
device according to an embodiment.
[0064] FIG. 51 is a perspective view of a portion of a delivery
device according to an embodiment.
[0065] FIG. 52 is a perspective view of a portion of a delivery
device according to an embodiment.
[0066] FIG. 53 is a perspective view of a portion of a delivery
device according to an embodiment.
[0067] FIG. 54 is a perspective view of a portion of a delivery
device being used to facilitate an ocular injection, according to
an embodiment.
[0068] FIG. 55 is a cross-sectional view of the portion of the
delivery device shown in FIG. 54.
[0069] FIG. 56 shows a perspective view of a delivery device,
according to an embodiment.
[0070] FIG. 57 shows an exploded view of the delivery device shown
in FIG. 56.
[0071] FIG. 58 shows a perspective view of an actuator rod included
in the delivery device of FIG. 56.
[0072] FIG. 59 shows a top perspective view of a plug included in
the delivery device of FIG. 56.
[0073] FIG. 60 shows a bottom perspective view of the plug of FIG.
59.
[0074] FIG. 61 shows a top perspective view of an actuator included
in the delivery device of FIG. 56.
[0075] FIG. 62 shows a side cross-section view of the actuator of
FIG. 61, taken along the line 62-62 shown in FIG. 61.
[0076] FIG. 63 shows a top perspective view of a medicament
containment chamber included in the delivery device of FIG. 56.
[0077] FIG. 64 shows a bottom perspective view of the medicament
containment chamber of FIG. 63.
[0078] FIG. 65 shows a side cross-section view of the medicament
containment chamber of FIG. 63 taken along the line 65-65 shown in
FIG. 63.
[0079] FIG. 66 shows a top perspective view of a hub included in
the delivery device of FIG. 56.
[0080] FIG. 67 show a side cross-section view of the hub of FIG. 66
taken along the line 67-67 shown in FIG. 66.
[0081] FIG. 68 shows a top perspective view of a cap included in
the delivery device of FIG. 56.
[0082] FIG. 69 shows a side cross-section view of the cap of FIG.
68 taken along the line 69-69 shown in FIG. 68.
[0083] FIGS. 70 and 71 show side cross-section views of the
delivery device of FIG. 56 in a first configuration and a second
configuration, respectively.
[0084] FIG. 72 shows a perspective view of an injection marker that
can be included in a delivery system, according to an
embodiment.
[0085] FIG. 73 shows the injection marker of FIG. 72 being used to
mark an injection site on an eye.
[0086] FIG. 74 shows a perspective view of a delivery device and an
extraction member configured to be coupled to the delivery device,
according to an embodiment.
[0087] FIG. 75 shows a perspective view of the delivery device of
FIG. 74 with the extraction member coupled thereto.
[0088] FIG. 76 shows a side cross-section view of the extraction
member of FIG. 74.
[0089] FIG. 77 shows a perspective view of the delivery device of
FIG. 75 and a medicament vial, the extraction member configured to
be coupled to the vial.
[0090] FIG. 78 shows a side cross-section view of the extraction
member and vial of FIG. 77 in an uncoupled configuration.
[0091] FIG. 79 shows the extraction member of the delivery device
of FIG. 77 coupled to the vial.
[0092] FIG. 80 shows a side cross-section view of the extraction
member and vial of FIG. 79 in a coupled configuration.
[0093] FIG. 81 shows a system for delivering a medicament to an
eye, according to an embodiment, in a first configuration.
[0094] FIG. 82 shows an enlarged view of a portion of the system of
FIG. 81 shown by the arrow 82 in FIG. 81.
[0095] FIG. 83 shows a perspective view of the system of FIG. 81 in
a second configuration.
[0096] FIGS. 84A-B shows a schematic illustration of a delivery
device that includes a mechanism to adjust the length of an
insertion depth of a needle included in the delivery device in a
first configuration and a second configuration respectively,
according to an embodiment.
[0097] FIGS. 85A-B shows a schematic illustration of a delivery
device that includes an injection assist assembly in a first
configuration and a second configuration respectively, according to
an embodiment.
[0098] FIG. 86 shows a schematic illustration of a delivery device
that includes an adjustment member, according to an embodiment.
[0099] FIG. 87 shows a schematic illustration of a delivery device
that includes an injection assembly, according to an
embodiment.
[0100] FIG. 88 shows a schematic illustration of a portion of a
delivery device that includes an adjustment member, according to an
embodiment.
[0101] FIGS. 89A-B show schematic illustrations of a portion of a
delivery device that includes an adjustment member in a first
configuration and a second configuration respectively, according to
an embodiment.
[0102] FIGS. 90A-C show a schematic illustrations of a delivery
device that includes a needle assembly in a first, second and third
configuration, according to an embodiment.
[0103] FIG. 91 shows a schematic illustration of a delivery device
that includes a needle assembly and an adjustment member, according
to an embodiment.
[0104] FIG. 92A shows a perspective view and FIG. 92B shows a side
cross-section view of a delivery device that includes a hub,
according to an embodiment.
[0105] FIG. 93A shows a perspective view of a delivery device that
includes a hub, according to an embodiment. FIG. 93B-C show side
cross-section views of the delivery device of FIG. 93A in a first
configuration and a second configuration.
[0106] FIG. 94A-B show schematic illustrations of a needle
configured to communicate light inserted a first distance within
ocular tissues and a second distance within the ocular tissue
respectively, according to an embodiment.
[0107] FIG. 95 shows a speculum configured to position a delivery
device for ocular injection into an eye, according to an
embodiment.
[0108] FIG. 96 shows a speculum that includes markings for sizing
an eye, according to an embodiment.
[0109] FIG. 97 shows a speculum that includes a mount configured to
receive a mounting portion included in a delivery device and
position the delivery device for ocular injection into an eye,
according to an embodiment.
[0110] FIG. 98A shows a perspective view of a one-piece speculum,
and FIG. 98B shows the speculum of FIG. 98A disposed on a eye and
delivery device coupled thereto, according to an embodiment.
[0111] FIG. 99 shows a flow diagram of a method of injecting a
substance into an eye using a medical injector that includes a hub
such that a convex distal end of the hub forms a seal with a target
surface to fluidically isolate a delivery passageway, according to
an embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0112] The embodiments described herein relate to systems and
devices for delivering a fluid (e.g., a drug) or extracting a fluid
into the sclera of an eye. Furthermore, embodiments described
herein are related to systems, devices, and methods to assist in
the insertion of a delivery member, for example, a needle or
microneedle into the eye, and/or assist in injecting a medicament
into a target ocular tissue. Embodiments described herein are also
related to systems, devices, and methods for controlling the
insertion depth of a delivery member, such as, for example, a
microneedle, into the eye to deliver a therapeutic agent to, for
example, a posterior region of the eye (e.g., via the
suprachoroidal space). Embodiments, described herein are also
related to systems, devices and methods to form a substantially
fluid-tight seal around a delivery passageway formed by insertion
of a delivery member, for example, a microneedle, into the eye to
prevent leakage of the substance and/or ocular fluid from the
insertion site.
[0113] In some embodiments, the microneedles included in the
embodiments described herein include a bevel, which allows for ease
of penetration into the sclera and/or suprachoroidal space with
minimal collateral damage. Moreover, in some embodiments, the micro
needles disclosed herein can define a narrow lumen (e.g., gauge
size greater than or equal to 30 gauge, 32 gauge, 34 gauge, 36
gauge, etc.) to allow for suprachoroidal drug delivery while
minimizing the diameter of the needle track caused by the insertion
of the microneedle. In some embodiments, the lumen and bevel aspect
ratio of the microneedles described herein are distinct from
standard 27 gauge and 30 gauge needles, which are now commonly used
for intraocular injection. For example, the microneedles included
in the embodiments described herein can be any of those described
in International Patent Application Publication No. WO2014/036009,
entitled, "Apparatus and Methods for Drug Delivery Using
Microneedles," filed on Aug. 27, 2013, the disclosure of which is
incorporated by reference herein in its entirety (referred to
henceforth as the "'009 PCT application").
[0114] In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a housing
configured to be coupled to a medicament container. The medicament
container is configured to be coupled to a needle. An injection
assembly is disposed within the housing and includes an energy
storage member and an actuation rod. A distal end portion of the
actuation rod is configured to be disposed within the medicament
container. The energy storage member is configured to produce a
force on a proximal end portion of the actuation rod. The force is
sufficient to move the distal end portion of the actuation rod
within the medicament container to convey at least a portion of a
substance from the medicament container via the needle when a
distal tip of the needle is disposed within a first region of a
target location. Furthermore, the force is insufficient to move the
distal end portion of the actuation rod within the medicament
container when the distal tip of the needle is disposed within a
second region of the target location. In some embodiments, the
first region of the target location has a first density and the
second region of the target location has a second density, higher
than the first density. In some embodiments, the first region of
the target location produces a first backpressure and the second
region of the target location produces a second backpressure,
higher than the first backpressure.
[0115] In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a housing
configured to receive at least a portion of a medicament container.
The medicament container is configured to be coupled to a needle.
An injection assembly is disposed within the housing. The injection
assembly includes an energy storage member, an actuation rod, and a
release member. A distal end portion of the actuation rod is
configured to be disposed within the medicament container. The
release member is configured to maintain a position of the
actuation rod relative to the housing when the release member is in
a first position such that the movement of the housing relative to
the medicament container moves the distal end portion of the
actuation rod within the medicament container. The release member
is configure to release the actuation rod when moved from the first
position to a second position such that a force produced by the
energy storage member moves the distal end portion of the actuation
rod relative to the housing within the medicament container. This
conveys at least a portion of a substance from the medicament
container via the needle. In some embodiments, the force is
sufficient to move the distal end portion of the actuation rod
within the medicament container when a distal tip of the needle is
disposed within a first region of a target location. The force
however, is insufficient to move the distal end portion of the
actuation rod within the medicament container when the distal tip
of the needle is disposed within a second region of the target
location.
[0116] In some embodiments, a method includes inserting a distal
tip of a needle of a medical injector, which includes a medicament
container and an injection assembly, a first distance into a target
tissue. The medicament container is in fluid communication with the
needle. The injection assembly includes an actuation rod and an
energy storage member that is configured to produce a force on a
proximal end portion of the actuation rod. The method further
includes releasing the actuation rod of the injection assembly to
allow a distal end portion of the actuation rod to move within the
medicament container in response to the force. Finally, the method
includes inserting, after releasing, the distal tip of the needle
of the medical injector a second distance into the target tissue if
the distal end portion of the actuation rod moves less than a
threshold injection distance within the medicament container in
response to the force, the second distance greater than the first
distance. In some embodiments, the distal end portion of the
actuation rod moves a first injection distance within the
medicament container in response to the force. In such embodiments,
the method can further include moving the injection assembly
relative to the medicament container to move the distal end portion
of the actuation rod a second injection distance, greater than the
first injection distance, within the medicament container.
[0117] In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a housing
configured to receive a portion of medicament container and an
adjustment member. A proximal end portion of the adjustment member
is configured to be coupled to the medicament container. A distal
end portion of the adjustment member is coupled to a needle. The
adjustment member is movably disposed within the housing such that
when the adjustment member is rotated relative to the housing, the
needle is moved through a plurality of discrete increments along a
longitudinal axis of the housing. In some embodiments, the
adjustment member defines a lumen configured to place the
medicament container in fluid communication with the needle.
[0118] In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a housing
configured to receive a portion of a medicament container and an
adjustment member. A proximal end portion of the adjustment member
is configured to be coupled to the medicament container. A distal
end portion of the adjustment member is coupled to a needle. The
adjustment member defines a plurality of detents such that a
protrusion of the housing is configured to be removably disposed
within each detent from the plurality of detents when the
adjustment member is moved relative to the housing to move the
needle relative to the housing through a plurality of discrete
increments. In some embodiments, the protrusion can be a bearing
movably coupled within the housing. In such embodiments, the
bearing is configured to be removably disposed within each detent
from the plurality of detents when the adjustment member is moved
relative to the housing to move the needle through the plurality of
discrete increments. Furthermore, the apparatus can also include a
bias member configured to maintain the bearing within a detent from
the plurality of detents.
[0119] In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a hub configured
to be coupled to a medical injector. The hub defines a passageway
configured to receive a needle therethrough. The hub has a convex
distal end surface, which is configured to contact a target surface
of a target tissue when a substance is conveyed through the needle
into the target tissue. In some embodiments, the distal end surface
includes a sealing portion configured to define a substantially
fluid-tight seal with the target surface when the distal end
surface is in contact with the target surface.
[0120] In some embodiments, a method includes inserting a distal
end portion of a needle of a medical injector into a target tissue
to define a delivery passageway within the target tissue. This is
followed by placing a convex distal end surface of a hub of the
medical injector into contact with a target surface of the target
tissue to fluidically isolate the delivery passageway. Next, the
method includes conveying, after the placing, a substance into the
target tissue via the needle. In some embodiments, the target
tissue is an eye and the target surface is the conjunctiva of the
eye. In some embodiments, the delivery passageway extends through a
sclera of the eye and the conveying includes conveying the
substance into at least one of a suprachoroidal space or lower
portion of the sclera. In such embodiments, the method can further
include adjusting, before the conveying, a length of the needle
extending from the distal end surface of the hub.
[0121] In some embodiments, a method includes inserting a distal
end portion of a needle of a medical injector into a target tissue
to define a delivery passageway within the target tissue. The
inserting is performed such that a centerline of the needle is
substantially normal to a target surface of the target tissue. This
is followed by placing a distal end surface of a hub of the medical
injector into contact with a target surface of the target tissue to
fluidically isolate the delivery passageway. Next, the method
includes conveying, after the placing, a substance into the target
tissue via the needle. In some embodiments, the delivery is
performed such that a centerline of the delivery passageway and a
surface line tangent to the target surface defines an angle of
entry of between about 75 degrees and about 105 degrees.
[0122] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an", and "the"
include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates
otherwise. Thus, for example, the term "a member" is intended to
mean a single member or a combination of members, "a material" is
intended to mean one or more materials, or a combination
thereof.
[0123] As used herein, the words "proximal" and "distal" refer to
the direction closer to and away from, respectively, an operator
(e.g., surgeon, physician, nurse, technician, etc.) who would
insert the medical device into the patient, with the tip-end (i.e.,
distal end) of the device inserted inside a patient's body first.
Thus, for example, the end of a microneedle described herein first
inserted inside the patient's body would be the distal end, while
the opposite end of the microneedle (e.g., the end of the medical
device being manipulated by the operator) would be the proximal end
of the microneedle.
[0124] As used herein, a "set" can refer to multiple features or a
singular feature with multiple parts. For example, when referring
to set of walls, the set of walls can be considered as one wall
with distinct portions, or the set of walls can be considered as
multiple walls.
[0125] As used herein, the terms "about" and "approximately"
generally mean plus or minus 10% of the value stated. For example,
about 0.5 would include 0.45 and 0.55, about 10 would include 9 to
11, about 1000 would include 900 to 1100.
[0126] As used herein, the terms "delivery member", "puncture
member", and "puncturing member" are used interchangeably to refer
to an article configured to pierce tissue layers and deliver a
substance to a target tissue layer, for example, a needle or a
microneedle.
[0127] As used herein, the terms "medicament container", and
"medicament containment chamber" are used interchangeably to refer
to an article configured to contain a volume of a substance, for
example, a medicament.
[0128] The term "fluid-tight" is understood to encompass both a
hermetic seal (i.e., a seal that is gas-impervious) as well as a
seal that is liquid-impervious. The term "substantially" when used
in connection with "fluid-tight," "gas-impervious," and/or
"liquid-impervious" is intended to convey that, while total fluid
imperviousness is desirable, some minimal leakage due to
manufacturing tolerances, or other practical considerations (such
as, for example, the pressure applied to the seal and/or within the
fluid), can occur even in a "substantially fluid-tight" seal. Thus,
a "substantially fluid-tight" seal includes a seal that prevents
the passage of a fluid (including gases, liquids and/or slurries)
therethrough when the seal is maintained at a constant position and
at fluid pressures of less than about 5 psig, less than about 10
psig, less than about 20 psig, less than about 30 psig, less than
about 50 psig, less than about 75 psig, less than about 100 psig
and all values in between. Similarly, a "substantially
liquid-tight" seal includes a seal that prevents the passage of a
liquid (e.g., a liquid medicament) therethrough when the seal is
maintained at a constant position and is exposed to liquid
pressures of less than about 5 psig, less than about 10 psig, less
than about 20 psig, less than about 30 psig, less than about 50
psig, less than about 75 psig, less than about 100 psig and all
values in between.
[0129] The embodiments and methods described herein can be used to
treat, deliver substances to and/or aspirate substances from,
various target tissues in the eye. For reference, FIGS. 1-4 are a
various views of a human eye 10 (with FIGS. 2-4 being
cross-sectional views). While specific regions are identified,
those skilled in the art will recognize that the proceeding
identified regions do not constitute the entirety of the eye 10,
rather the identified regions are presented as a simplified example
suitable for the discussion of the embodiments herein. The eye 10
includes both an anterior segment 12 (the portion of the eye in
front of and including the lens) and a posterior segment 14 (the
portion of the eye behind the lens). The anterior segment 12 is
bounded by the cornea 16 and the lens 18, while the posterior
segment 14 is bounded by the sclera 20 and the lens 18. The
anterior segment 12 is further subdivided into the anterior chamber
22, between the iris 24 and the cornea 16, and the posterior
chamber 26, between the lens 18 and the iris 24. The cornea 16 and
the sclera 20 collectively form a limbus 38 at the point at which
they meet. The exposed portion of the sclera 20 on the anterior
segment 12 of the eye is protected by a clear membrane referred to
as the conjunctiva 45 (see e.g., FIGS. 2 and 3). Underlying the
sclera 20 is the choroid 28 and the retina 27, collectively
referred to as retinachoroidal tissue. A vitreous humour 30 (also
referred to as the "vitreous") is disposed between a ciliary body
32 (including a ciliary muscle and a ciliary process) and the
retina 27. The anterior portion of the retina 27 forms an ora
serrata 34. The loose connective tissue, or potential space,
between the choroid 28 and the sclera 20 is referred to as the
suprachoroid. FIG. 2 illustrates the cornea 16, which is composed
of the epithelium 40, the Bowman's layer 41, the stroma 42, the
Descemet's membrane 43, and the endothelium 44. FIG. 3 illustrates
the sclera 20 with surrounding Tenon's Capsule 46 or conjunctiva
45, suprachoroidal space 36, choroid 28, and retina 27,
substantially without fluid and/or tissue separation in the
suprachoroidal space 36 (i.e., the in this configuration, the space
is "potential" suprachoroidal space). As shown in FIG. 3, the
sclera 20 has a thickness between about 500 .mu.m and 700 .mu.m.
FIG. 4 illustrates the sclera 20 with the surrounding Tenon's
Capsule 46 or the conjunctiva 45, suprachoroidal space 36, choroid
28, and retina 27, with fluid 50 in the suprachoroidal space
36.
[0130] As used herein, the term "suprachoroidal space," or SCS
which is synonymous with suprachoroid, or suprachoroidia, describes
the space (or volume) and/or potential space (or potential volume)
in the region of the eye 10 disposed between the sclera 20 and
choroid 28. This region primarily is composed of closely packed
layers of long pigmented processes derived from each of the two
adjacent tissues; however, a space can develop in this region
because of fluid or other material buildup in the suprachoroidal
space and the adjacent tissues. The suprachoroidal space can be
expanded by fluid buildup because of some disease state in the eye
or because of some trauma or surgical intervention. In some
embodiments, the fluid buildup is intentionally created by the
delivery, injection and/or infusion of a drug formulation into the
suprachoroid to create and/or expand further the suprachoroidal
space 36 (i.e., by disposing a drug formulation therein). This
volume may serve as a pathway for uveoscleral outflow (i.e., a
natural process of the eye moving fluid from one region of the eye
to the other through) and may become a space in instances of
choroidal detachment from the sclera.
[0131] The dashed line in FIG. 1 represents the equator of the eye
10. In some embodiments, the insertion site of any of the
microneedles and/or methods described herein is between the equator
and the limbus 38 (i.e., in the anterior portion 12 of the eye 10)
For example, in some embodiments, the insertion site is between
about two millimeters and 10 millimeters (mm) posterior to the
limbus 38. In other embodiments, the insertion site of the
microneedle is at about the equator of the eye 10. In still other
embodiments, the insertion site is posterior the equator of the eye
10. In this manner, a drug formulation can be introduced (e.g., via
the microneedle) into the suprachoroidal space 36 at the site of
the insertion and can flow through the suprachoroidal space 36 away
from the site of insertion during an infusion event (e.g., during
injection).
[0132] In some embodiments, a system for ocular injection can
include a medicament container at least a portion of which is
disposed in a housing that includes an injection assembly. The
injection assembly can facilitate delivery of a substance disposed
in a medicament container to a target tissue, for example, the SCS.
For example, FIGS. 5-6, show a system 100, according to an
embodiment. The system 100 includes a housing 110, an injection
assembly 111, a medicament container 130, and a needle 140, in a
first configuration and a second configuration, respectively. The
system 100 can be configured to deliver a medicament to region
and/or a layer of a target location, for example, an eye of a
patient, (e.g., to the SCS of the eye), as described herein.
[0133] The housing 110 is configured to be coupled to the
medicament container 130, and the medicament container 130 is
configured to be coupled to the needle 140. For example, in some
embodiments, at least a portion of the medicament container 130 can
be disposed within an internal volume defined by the housing 110.
In some embodiments, the medicament container 130 can be slidably
disposed within the housing 110. The housing 110 can be a
monolithic housing or include two or more portions which can be
joined together to form the housing 110. As shown, the housing 110
defines an internal volume within which the injection assembly 111
is disposed. Mounting features, for example, mounts, notches,
grooves, indents, guide rods, slots, or any other suitable mounting
features can be disposed in the interval volume defined by the
housing 110 configured to secure at least a portion of the
components included in the injection assembly 111.
[0134] The injection assembly 111 includes an energy storage member
146 and an actuation rod 120. In some embodiments, the energy
storage member 146 can be a spring, for example, helical spring,
compression, extension, spring washers, Belleville washer, tapered,
any other type of spring. In other embodiments, the energy storage
member 146 can include a compressed gas container, or a container
containing a propellant. The energy storage member 146 is
operatively coupled to a proximal end portion 122 of the actuation
rod 120, and produces a force on the proximal end portion 122 of
the actuation rod 120.
[0135] A distal end portion 124 of the actuation rod 120 is
disposed within the medicament container 130. The distal end
portion 124 can be coupled to and/or in contact with a plug 128
which is in fluidic communication with a substance M (e.g., a
medicament such as, for example, VEGF, a VEGF inhibitor, a
combination thereof, or any other medicament described herein)
disposed within an internal volume defined by the medicament
container 130. The distal end portion 124 of the actuation rod 120
is configured to be displaced within the internal volume defined by
the medicament container 130, for example, due to the force
produced by the energy storage member 146, as described herein. In
this manner, the actuation rod 120 can displace the plug 128 within
the medicament container 130 to draw in or expel the substance M
from the distal tip 142 of the needle 140, as described herein. The
sidewalls of the plug 128 can be configured to contact the
sidewalls of the medicament container 130 such that the plug 128
forms a substantially fluid-tight seal with the side wall of the
medicament container 130, for example, to prevent leakage of the
substance M. The plug 128 can be made of an inert and/or
biocompatible material which is rigid but soft. Example materials
include rubber, silicone, plastic, polymers, any other suitable
material or combination thereof. In some embodiments, the plug 128
can be monolithically formed with the actuation rod 120.
[0136] The needle 140 can be coupled to the medicament container
130 using any suitable coupling features, for example, Luer
connectors, threads, snap-fit, latch, lock, friction fit, or any
other suitable coupling features. The needle 140 can include any
suitable needle described herein, for example, a micro needle
(e.g., a 27 gauge, 30 gauge, or even smaller needle). The distal
tip 142 of the needle 140 can define a sharp tip such that the
needle 140 is configured to pierce a target location T, for
example, a bodily tissue (e.g., ocular tissue). In this manner, the
distal tip 142 can be disposed within a first region R1 and/or a
second region R2 of the target location T, as described herein. The
needle 140 defines a lumen 141, which is in fluidic communication
with the substance M disposed within the internal volume defined by
the medicament container 130. In this manner, the needle 140 is
configured to establish fluid communication between the medicament
container 130 and the target location T, for example, the first
region R1 of the target location T, as described herein. In some
embodiments, the first region R1 of the target location T can have
a first density and the second region R2 can have a second density,
which is higher than the first density. In some embodiments, the
first region R1 of the target location T produces a first
backpressure on the distal tip 142 of the needle 140, and the
second region R2 produces a second backpressure on the distal tip
142 of the needle 140, which is higher than the first backpressure.
In other words, the first region R1 of the target location T
produces a first pressure that resists and/or opposes flow from the
distal tip 142 of the needle 140, and the second region R2 produces
a second pressure that resists and/or opposes flow from the distal
tip 142 of the needle 140, which is higher than the first pressure.
In some embodiments, the target location T can be an eye such that
the first region R1 is a suprachoroidal space of the eye, and the
second region R2 is a sclera of the eye.
[0137] The force produced on the proximal end portion 122 of the
actuation rod 120 by the energy storage member 146 can be
sufficient to move the distal end portion 124 of the actuation rod
120 within the medicament container 130 to convey at least a
portion of the substance M from the medicament container 130 via
the needle 140 when the distal tip 142 of the needle 140 is
disposed within the first region R1 (e.g., an SCS of the eye) of
the target location T. Furthermore, the force can be insufficient
to move the distal end portion 124 of the actuation rod 120 within
the medicament container 130 when the distal tip 142 of the needle
140 is disposed within the second region R2 (e.g., the sclera of
the eye) of the target location T. Said another way, the injection
assembly 111 can be configured to assist a user in delivering at
least a portion of the substance M to the region R1, while be
configured or "calibrated" to limit and/or prevent delivery to the
region R2. In some embodiments, the injection assembly 111 can be
configured to inform the user when the distal tip 142 of the needle
140 is in the target region of the target location T, for example,
the region R1, such that the substance M can be delivered to the
target region with high confidence.
[0138] Expanding further, FIG. 5 shows the apparatus 100 in the
first configuration in which the distal tip 142 of the needle 140
is disposed in the second region R2. When the apparatus is
actuated, the energy storage member 146 exerts a force in a
direction shown by the arrow F on the proximal end portion 122 of
the actuation rod 120. The force F exerted, however, is
insufficient to move the distal end portion 124 of the actuation
rod 120 within the medicament container 130. For example, the
second region R2 (e.g., the sclera of the eye) can produce a second
backpressure which overcomes the force F, thereby preventing and/or
limiting delivery of the substance M to the second region R2. In
other words, the apparatus 100 is specifically configured or
"calibrated" such that the force F is insufficient to convey the
substance M to the second region R2.
[0139] In the second configuration shown in FIG. 6, the distal tip
142 of the needle is now disposed in the first region R1 (e.g., the
SCS of the eye). Because of the anatomical differences and/or the
differences in material properties between the first region R1 and
the second region R2, the force F is sufficient to move the distal
end portion 124 of the actuation rod 120 an injection distance
within the medicament container 130. For example, the force F can
be sufficient to overcome a first backpressure produced by the
first region R1. In this manner, the injection assembly 111 can be
configured to ensure that the injection is initiated only when the
distal tip 142 of the needle is in the first region R1 such that
the substance M (e.g., a medicament such as, for example, VEGF, a
VEGF inhibitor, a combination thereof, or any other medicament
described herein) can be delivered only to the region R1. In some
embodiments, the force F exerted by the energy storage member 146
can be between about 2 N and about 6 N, for example, about 3 N,
about 4 N, or about 5 N, inclusive of all ranges therebetween. In
some embodiments, the actuation rod 120 and the medicament
container 130 can be collectively configured such that the force
produces an injection pressure within the medicament container 130
of between about 100 kPa and about 500 kPa. For example, in some
embodiments, the injection pressure can be about 100 kPa, 110 kPa,
120 kPa, 130 kPa, 140 kPa, 150 kPa, 160 kPa, 170 kPa, 180 kPa, 190
kPa, 200 kPa, 220 kPa, 240 kPa, 260 kPa, 280 kPa, 300 kPa, 320 kPa,
340 kPa, 360 kPa, 380 kPa, 400 kPa, 420 kPa, 440 kPa, 460 kPa, or
about 480 kPa, inclusive of all ranges and values therebetween. The
injection pressure can be sufficient to overcome the backpressure
produced by region R1, but insufficient to overcome the
backpressure produced by region R2. For example, the force F can be
varied (e.g., by varying the energy storage member 146) depending
on the diameter of the medicament container 130 and/or the
actuation rod, the viscosity of the substance M, and/or the
material of the medicament container 130 and/or the actuation rod
120. In this manner, regardless of the variations in the actuation
rod 120, the medicament container 130, and/or the substance M, the
injection assembly 111 produces an injection pressure within the
medicament container of between about 100 kPa and about 500
kPa.
[0140] In some embodiments, the injection assembly 111 can be
configured to be engaged or disengaged by a user reversibly on
demand. For example, the injection assembly 111 can include an
ON/OFF switch which can be engaged by the user to activate or
deactivate the injection assembly and/or the energy storage member
146. By way of example, in such embodiments, the injection assembly
111 can be activated by the user (e.g., by turning the injection
assembly ON) to release the energy storage member 146 such that the
energy storage member 146 exerts the force on the proximal end
portion 122 of the actuation rod 120 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6) to
move the distal end portion 124 of the energy storage member 146
within the medicament container 130. The user can then deactivate
the injection assembly 111 (e.g., by turning the injection assembly
OFF). The disengaging can result in the force exerted on the
proximal end portion 122 of the actuation rod 120 to be removed
(e.g., to stop any further movement of the actuation rod 120 within
the medicament container 130) or reduced. In some embodiments, the
injection assembly 111 can be configured such that the direction of
the force F can be reversed or the actuation rod 120 and/or the
energy storage member 146 can be moved in an opposite direction of
the arrow F (FIG. 5). In this manner, the medical injector 100 can
be returned to the first configuration such that, for example, the
energy storage member 146 and/or the actuation rod 120 can be
secured. This can, for example, allow more flexibility to the user
to perform dry runs or correct a mistake, for example, inadvertent
activation of the injection assembly 111 (e.g., during
transportation to the target tissue), or injection in an incorrect
insertion site (e.g., an undesired location on an eye). In such
embodiments, the energy storage member 146 can include any suitable
engagement member which can be reversibly engaged or disengaged by
the user such as, for example, a valve (e.g., a flap valve, a
butterfly valve, or the likes), a diaphragm, a mechanical actuator
(e.g., a rack and pinion actuator, a lead screw and nut actuator, a
cam, etc.), a hydraulic actuator (e.g., a hydraulic piston), an
electromechanical actuator (e.g., a piezo electric actuator), a
magnetic actuator, or any other suitable energy storage member 146
which can be reversibly engaged by the user. Such an energy storage
member 146 can, for example, allow the medical injector 100 to be
moved between the first configuration and the second configuration
on demand.
[0141] In some embodiments, the injection assembly 111 can be
configured such that injection distance traversed by the actuation
rod 120 is sufficient to deliver substantially all of the desired
dose of the substance M into the first region R1. In other
embodiments, the injection assembly 111 can be configured such that
the injection distance traversed by the actuation rod 120 is
sufficient to deliver only a portion of the desired dose of the
substance M into the first region R1. In such embodiments, the
injection assembly 111 can be configured to initiate delivery of
the substance M into the first region R1, for example, to inform
the user that the distal tip 142 of the needle 140 is disposed
within the first region R1 (e.g., the user would see or otherwise
detect that the actuation rod 120 has moved, thus indicating the
desired positioning of the needle 140). Said another way, the
injection assembly 111 can assist the user in determining whether
the distal tip 142 of the needle 140 is within the region R1 or not
by initiating delivery of the substance M. In such embodiments, the
injection distance can be a first injection distance. The user can
then move the distal end portion 124 of the actuation rod 120 a
second injection distance, for example, by applying a manual force
on the actuation rod 120 (e.g., by moving the housing 110 relative
to the medicament container 130, as described herein). In some
embodiments, any suitable delivery mechanism (e.g., a mechanical
actuator or a pump) can be used to move the distal end portion 122
of the actuation rod 120 the second injection distance such that
substantially all of the desired dose of the substance M is
delivered to the first region R1.
[0142] In some embodiments, the proximal end portion 122 of the
actuation rod 120 moves relative to the housing 110 to move the
distal end portion 124 of the actuation rod 120 within the
medicament container 130, for example, when the distal tip 142 of
the needle 140 is disposed within the first region R1 (e.g., the
SCS of the eye) of the target location T. For example, in some
embodiments, the proximal end portion 122 of the actuation rod 120
can be configured to move freely within the housing 110 such that,
distal end portion 124 can move within the medicament container 130
without the housing 110 and the medicament container 130 moving
relative to each other. This can, for example, ensure that force F
exerted by the energy storage member 146 does not move the housing
relative to the medicament container 130. In this manner,
substantially all of the force F can be transferred to the proximal
end portion 122 of the actuation rod 120. In such embodiments, the
housing 110 and/or the medicament container 130 can include
features, for example, ribs, notches, grooves, indents, locks,
latches, high friction, or any other suitable mechanism, sufficient
to prevent the housing 110 and the medicament container 130 from
moving relative to each other due to the force F.
[0143] In some embodiments, the injection assembly 111 can include
a release member (not shown) configure to selectively limit
movement of the actuation rod 120 relative to the housing 110. In
such embodiments, the housing 110 can be configured to move
relative to the medicament container 130 to move the distal end
portion 124 of the actuation rod 120 within the medicament
container 130 independently from the force F. In this manner, the
release member can be configured to lock or otherwise secure the
actuation rod 120, for example, the proximal end portion 122 of the
actuation rod 120, and/or the energy storage member 146 in the
first configuration. This can, for example, bias the energy storage
member 146 to exert the force F on the distal end portion 122 of
the actuation rod 120. In this manner, the movement of the
actuation rod 120 can be substantially limited within the housing
110 such that any movement of the housing 110 relative to the
medicament container 130 also displaces the distal end portion 124
of the actuation rod 120 within the medicament container 130. For
example, the user can move the housing 110 relative to the
medicament container 130 to move the distal end portion 124 of the
actuation rod 120 within the medicament container 130. The relative
motion can be used to draw the substance M into the medicament
container 130 and/or move the distal end portion 124 the second
injection distance to expel substantially all of the substance M in
the first region R1 or any other target region of the target
location, as described herein.
[0144] In some embodiments, the release member can be configured to
move between a first position and a second position such that the
release member is configured to release the energy storage member
146 when the release member is moved from the first position to the
second position. The release member can include any suitable
release member such as, for example, a pawl, lock, latch, or any
other suitable release member. By way of example, in the first
position the release member can secure or otherwise engage the
proximal end portion 122 of the actuation rod 120, and/or the
energy storage member 146, such that the energy storage member 146
is biased and/or the actuation rod 120 is locked within the housing
110, as described herein. Once the distal tip 142 of the needle 140
is disposed within the second region R2, the release member can be
moved into the second position to release the energy storage member
146 and/or the actuation rod 120. Said another way, the release
member can be configured to maintain a position of the actuation
rod 120 relative to the housing 110 when the release member is in
the first position such that the movement of the housing 110
relative to the medicament container 130 moves the distal end
portion 124 of actuation rod 120 within the medicament container.
Furthermore, the release member can be configured to release the
actuation rod 120 when moved from the first position to the second
position. This can allow the force F produced by the energy storage
member 146 to move the distal end portion 124 of the actuation rod
120 relative to the housing 110 and within the medicament container
130 and, thereby convey at least a portion of the substance M from
the medicament container 130 via the needle 140. In some
embodiments, an actuation mechanism, for example, a button, a pull
tab, or any other actuation mechanism can be coupled to the release
member. The actuation mechanism can, for example, be configured to
be engaged by the user to move the release member into the second
position thereby releasing the actuation rod 120 and/or the energy
storage member 146.
[0145] In some embodiments, the injection assembly 111 can also
include a guide rod (not shown) fixedly coupled to the housing 110.
The actuation rod 120 can be configured to slide about the guide
rod when the energy storage member 146 is released. For example, in
some embodiments, at least a portion of the guide rod can be
disposed within a cavity defined in proximal end portion 122 of the
actuation rod 120. In some embodiments, the guide rod can be a
hollow rod within which the proximal end portion 122 of the
actuation rod 120 is disposed. The guide rod can be configured to
ensure that the actuation rod 120 moves within the housing 110
and/or medicament container 130 substantially along a center line
A.sub.L of the apparatus 100. In this manner, the guide rod can
prevent any sideways (or lateral) movement of the actuation rod
120.
[0146] In some embodiments, a system for ocular injection can
include a medicament containment chamber at least a portion of
which is disposed in a housing. Referring now to FIGS. 7-8, in some
embodiments, a system 1000 includes at least a housing 1110, a
medicament containment chamber 1310, and an actuator 1320. The
system 1000 can be configured to deliver a medicament to a region
and/or layer of an eye of a patient, for example, to the SCS of the
eye.
[0147] The housing 1110 includes a first portion 1110a and a second
portion 1110b, that can be coupled to define an internal volume for
housing at least a portion of the medicament containment chamber
1310 and the actuator 1320. The first portion 1110a and the second
portion 1110b can removably or fixedly coupled together using any
suitable means, for examples, screws, nuts, bolts, rivets,
adhesives, a snap-fit mechanism, notches, grooves, indents, lock,
latch, or any other suitable coupling mechanism. The housing 1110
includes a gripping portion 1112. A plurality of ribs 1113 are
disposed on the gripping portion 1112 to allow a user to easily
grip the housing 1110, for example, between the user's index and/or
middle finger, and thumb. A plurality of ridges 1114 are disposed
on an outer surface of a distal portion of the housing 1110. The
ridges 1114 can provide an additional gripping surface for the user
to securely hold the housing 1110. For example, a user can grip the
gripping portion 1112 with a first hand and grip the ridges 1114
with a second hand to limit any movement of the housing 1110 during
injection of a medicament disposed in the medicament containment
chamber 1310. A set of ribs (also referred to as sidewalls and/or
protrusions) 1116 are disposed in the internal volume defined by
the housing 1110. The ribs 1116 are configured to engage an
engagement portion 1312 and/or a flange 1313 of the medicament
containment chamber 1310, for example, to define a range of travel
of the actuator 1320, as described herein. Similarly stated, the
ribs 1116 are configured to limit movement of the actuator 1320
and/or the flange 1313 relative to the housing 1110 during use.
[0148] A set of mounts 1118 are disposed at a proximal end, within
the interior region, of the housing. The mounts 1118 are configured
to mount and/or retain an engagement portion 1322 of the actuator
1320, such that a linear translation of the housing 1110 along a
longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the system 1000 urges the actuator
1320 to also translate along the longitudinal axis A.sub.L relative
to the medicament containment chamber 1310. A securing member 1119
can be disposed over a distal end of the housing. The securing
member 1119 can be a ring-like member formed from a relatively
elastic material, for example, rubber, silicone, plastics,
polymers, any other suitable material or combination thereof. The
securing member 1119 can be configured to secure the first portion
1110a and the second portion 1110b of the housing 1110 to each
other at a distal end of the housing 1110.
[0149] The medicament containment chamber 1310 defines an internal
volume configured to house a medicament (e.g., triamcinolone
acetonide, VEGF, VEGF inhibitor, or any other medicament described
herein). The medicament containment chamber 1310 includes an
engagement portion 1312 and a delivery portion 1314. The delivery
portion 1314 can include any suitable coupling feature, for
example, a luer connector, threads, a snap-fit, a latch, a lock, a
friction fit coupling, or any other suitable coupling features. The
coupling features can be configured to couple the delivery portion
1314 with a puncturing member (not shown), for example, a
microneedle (e.g., a 27 gauge, a 30 gauge needle, or even smaller
micro needle). The puncturing member can be any suitable puncturing
member (such as those described in the '009 PCT application")
configured to pierce a portion of a patient's body, for example, an
eye, and to establish fluidic communication between the medicament
containment chamber 1310 and the portion of the user's body (e.g.,
the eye).
[0150] The engagement portion 1312 is disposed proximate to the
user and includes a flange 1313. The engagement portion 1312 is
disposed in the housing 1110 such that the ribs 1116 are distal to
the flange 1313, and interact with the flange 1313 to define a
range of motion of the actuator 1320 and/or the medicament
containment chamber 1310. In some embodiments, the medicament
containment chamber 1310 can include a commercially available
syringe such as, for example, a BD.TM. 1CC syringe, or any other
commercially available syringe.
[0151] The actuator 1320 includes an engagement portion 1322 and a
plunger portion (not shown) movably disposed within the internal
volume defined by the medicament containment chamber 1310. At least
a portion of the actuator 1320 is slidably disposed in the internal
volume defined by the medicament containment chamber 1310. Thus,
the actuator 1320 can be displaced within the internal volume
defined by the medicament containment chamber 1310 for drawing the
medicament into or expelling the medicament from the internal
volume defined by the medicament containment chamber 1310. The
engagement portion 1322 is fixedly mounted in the mounts 1118 of
the housing 1110. Thus, any linear displacement of the housing 1110
along the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the system 1000 also urges
the actuator 1320 to slide within the internal volume of the
medicament containment chamber 1310.
[0152] In use, a user can grip the housing 1110, for example, at
the gripping portion 1112 with one hand, and with the other hand
grip a portion of the medicament containment chamber 1310 disposed
outside the housing 1110. The user can then displace the housing
1110 relative to the medicament containment chamber 1310.
Displacement of the housing 1110 also urges the actuator 1320 to
slide within the internal volume defined by the medicament
containment chamber 1310. The ribs 1116 can prevent the user from
sliding the housing 1110 beyond a predetermined threshold to
prevent the actuator 1320 from being separated from the medicament
containment chamber 1310. Furthermore, the range of motion can also
define a maximum dose of the medicament that can be drawn into the
internal volume of the medicament containment chamber 1310. In this
manner, the user can draw a medicament into the medicament
containment chamber 1310, or inject the medicament into an ocular
tissue, for example, the SCS of an eye.
[0153] In some embodiments, a system for injecting a medicament
into ocular tissue can include an injector assembly configured to
produce a force to assist in the delivery of a medicament.
Referring now to FIG. 9 to FIGS. 16A-C, a system 2000 includes a
housing 2110, an injector assembly 2100, a medicament containment
chamber 2310, and an actuator 2320. The system 2000 can be
configured to deliver a medicament to a desired layer and/or region
of an eye of patient, for example, to the SCS of the eye.
[0154] The housing 2110 includes a first portion 2110a and a second
portion 2110b, that can be coupled to define an internal region for
housing the components of the injector assembly 2100 and at least a
portion of the medicament containment chamber 2310 and/or the
actuator 2320. The first portion 2110a and the second portion 2110b
can removably or fixedly coupled together using any suitable means,
for examples, screws, nuts, bolts, rivets, adhesives, a snap-fit
mechanism, notches, grooves, indents, lock, latch, or any other
suitable coupling mechanism. The housing 2110 includes a gripping
portion 2112 A plurality of ribs 2113 are disposed on the gripping
portion 2112 to allow a user to easily grip the housing 2110, for
example, between the user's index and/or middle finger, and thumb.
A plurality of ridges 2114 are also disposed on an outer surface of
a distal portion of the housing 2110, for example to allow easy
gripping of the housing 2110 by the user. For example, a user can
grip the gripping portion 2112 with a first hand and grip the
ridges 2114 with a second hand to limit any movement of the housing
2110 during injection of a medicament disposed in the medicament
containment chamber 2310. A set of ribs 2116 are disposed in the
internal region defined by the housing 2110. The ribs 2116 (also
referred to as shoulders or protrusions) are configured to engage a
flange 2313 included in an engagement portion 2312 of the
medicament containment chamber 2310, for example, to define a range
of travel of the actuator 2320 and/or the medicament containment
chamber 2310, as described herein. A proximal end of the housing
2110 includes slots 2117 (see FIG. 11) configured to receive at
least a portion of an actuating member 2120 included in the
injector assembly 2100, as described herein. A set of mounts 2118
are disposed at a proximal end, within the interior region, of the
housing. The mounts 2118, are configured to mount an engagement
portion 2142 of a guide rod 2140 included in the injector assembly
2100. A securing member 2119 can be disposed over a distal end of
the housing. The securing member 2119 can be a ring like member
formed from a relatively elastic material, for example, rubber,
silicone, plastics, polymers, any other suitable material or
combination thereof. The securing member 2119 can be configured to
secure the first portion 2110a and the second portion 2110b to each
other at a distal end of the housing 2110.
[0155] The actuating member 2120 (FIGS. 12A-C) is disposed at the
proximal end of the housing 2110 and is configured to actuate the
injector assembly 2100, as described herein. The actuating member
2120 includes an engagement protrusion 2122 and a guide protrusion
2124. At least a portion of the engagement protrusion 2122 and the
guide protrusion 2124 are slidably disposed in the slots 2117 (see
FIG. 11). A user can engage an engagement surface 2121 of the
actuating member 2120, and move the actuating member 2120 between a
first configuration, in which the engagement protrusion 2122 and
the guide protrusion 2124 are partially disposed within the
internal volume defined by the housing 2110, and a second
configuration, in which the engagement protrusion 2122 and the
guide protrusion 2124 are substantially disposed within the
internal volume defined by the housing 2110. Said another way, the
actuating member 2120 can be moved relative to the housing 2110
between a first position (see FIG. 16D) and a second position (FIG.
16E).
[0156] The engagement protrusion 2122 is configured to engage a
pawl 2130 included in the injector assembly 2100 in the second
configuration (or position), as described herein (see FIG. 16E).
The guide protrusion 2124 is configured to slide within the slots
2117 along with the engagement protrusion 2122, to prevent any
angular motion of the actuating member 2120 about the longitudinal
axis A.sub.L. A biasing member 2123, for example, a spring (e.g.,
helical spring, compression, extension, spring washers, Belleville
washer, tapered, any other type of spring) is coupled to the
engagement protrusion 2122, for example, disposed around the
engagement protrusion 2122. The biasing member 2123 is configured
to bias the actuating member 2120 in the first configuration (or
position). A washer 2125 is coupled to a proximal end of the guide
protrusion 2124 and is disposed inside the internal volume defined
by the housing 2110. The washer 2125 has a diameter, or otherwise
cross-section, which is substantially larger than the diameter or
otherwise cross-section of the slots 2117, such that the washer
2125 prevents the actuating member 2120 from being removed from the
housing 2100.
[0157] The pawl 2130 (FIGS. 13A-C) is disposed at the proximal end
of the internal volume defined by the housing 2110. The pawl 2130
includes an engagement portion 2132, a latch 2134, and a biasing
portion 2136. A set of protrusions 2137 are disposed on the pawl
2130. The protrusions 2137 are configured to pivotally mount the
pawl 2130 in the internal volume defined by the housing 2110. This
allows the pawl 2130 to rotate about the protrusions 2137 between a
first configuration (or angular position) and a second
configuration (or angular position) as described herein. The
engagement portion 2132 defines a flat surface, which is configured
to be engaged by the engagement protrusion 2122 of the actuating
member 2120 (see e.g., FIG. 16E). More particularly, when the
actuating member 2120 is moved from its first configuration (or
position) to its second configuration (or position), the engagement
protrusion 2122 can urge the pawl 2130 from the first configuration
into the second configuration. The latch 2134 defines a ledge or
shoulder configured to engage an engagement portion 2322 of the
actuator (or push rod) 2320 in the first configuration, as
described herein. The biasing portion 2136 includes a thin,
beam-like structure configured to elastically bend in the second
configuration. In this manner, the biasing member 2136 can urge the
pawl 2130 into the first configuration, as described herein. For
example, in the first configuration, the latch 2134 can engage the
engagement portion 2322 of the actuator 2320 (see FIGS. 16B-16D)
and the biasing portion 2136 can be in an extended position (i.e.,
maintaining the position of the pawl 2130). A user can engage the
engagement portion 2121 of the actuating member 2120 and urge it
into its second configuration (or position). In the second
configuration of the actuating member 2120, the engagement
protrusion 2122 can engage the engagement portion 2132 of the pawl
2130. This can urge the pawl 2130 to rotate about the protrusions
2137 and move into the second configuration. When the latch 2134 is
in the second configuration, the latch 2134 can disengage from the
engagement portion 2322 of the actuator 2320 such that the biasing
portion 2136 is bent against the housing 2110 and is biased (or
compressed). The user can then disengage the actuating member 2120.
The biasing member 2123 coupled to the engagement protrusion 2122
can urge the actuating member 2120 back into the first
configuration. This disengages the engagement protrusion 2122 from
the engagement surface 2132 of the pawl 2130 such that the biasing
portion 2136 can urge the pawl 2130 into the first
configuration.
[0158] The guide rod 2140 (FIG. 15) includes a mounting portion
2142 that is immovably mounted on the mounts 2118 included in the
housing 2110. Similarly stated, the guide rod 2140 is coupled
within the housing 2110 such that movement (distal movement and
proximal movement) is limited. At least a portion of the guide rod
2140 is disposed in a cavity 2326 defined within the actuator 2320.
The guide 2140 rod is configured to prevent lateral motion of the
actuator 2320 when the actuator 2320 slides in a linear direction
along the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the system 2000 within the
housing 2110, as described in further detail herein. The guide rod
2140 also couples a biasing member 2146 (or energy storage member
which is disposed around the guide rod 2140, see e.g. FIG. 16A)
between the mounts 2118 and the actuator (or push rod) 2320. The
biasing member 2146 can include, for example, a spring, (e.g., a
helical spring, compression, extension, spring washers, Belleville
washer, tapered, any other type of spring), any other suitable
biasing member or combination thereof. A proximal end of the
biasing member 2146 is coupled to and/or engaged with the mounting
portion 2142 of the guide rod 2140, and a distal end of the biasing
member 2146 is coupled to and/or engaged with the engagement
portion 2322 of the actuator 2320. The biasing member 2146 is
configured to bias the actuator 2320 when the engagement portion
2322 of the actuator 2320 is disposed relative to the mounting
portion 2142 of the guide rod 2140 in the "readied" position (see
e.g., FIGS. 16B-16D). In this manner, the biasing member 2146 can
exert a predetermined biasing force on the actuator 2320 to enable
or otherwise assist the actuator 2320 to expel a medicament from
the medicament containment chamber 2310, as described in further
detail herein.
[0159] The medicament containment chamber 2310 defines an internal
volume 2316 configured to house a medicament (e.g., a VEGF, a VEGF
inhibitor, triamcinolone acetonide, any other medicament described
herein or a combination thereof). The medicament containment
chamber 2310 includes an engagement portion 2312 and a delivery
portion 2314. The delivery portion 2314 can include coupling
features, for example, luer connectors, threads, snap-fit, latch,
lock, friction fit, or any other suitable coupling features. The
coupling features can be configured to couple the delivery portion
2314 with a puncturing member (not shown), for example, a
microneedle (e.g., a 27 gage, or 30 gage, or even smaller needle).
The puncturing member can be any suitable puncturing member (such
as those described in the '009 PCT application) which is configured
to pierce a portion of a patient's body, for example, an eye, and
to establish fluidic communication between the medicament
containment chamber 2310 and the portion of the user's body (e.g.,
the eye). The engagement portion 2312 includes a flange 2313. The
engagement portion 2312 is disposed in the housing 2110 such that
the ribs 2116 are distal to the flange 2313, and interact with the
flange 2313 to define a range of motion of the actuator 2320 and/or
the medicament containment chamber 2310. Said another way, the ribs
2116 and the flange 2313 can serve in combination as a locking
mechanism to prevent the medicament containment chamber 2310 from
moving beyond a threshold distance within the housing 2110. In some
embodiments, the medicament containment chamber 2310 can include a
commercially available syringe such as, for example, a BD.TM. 1CC
syringe, or any other commercially available syringe.
[0160] The actuator (or actuation rod) 2320 (FIGS. 14A-B) includes
an engagement portion 2322 and a plunger portion 2324. As described
before, the engagement portion 2322 defines a cavity 2326
configured to receive at least a portion of the guide rod 2140. A
proximal end of the engagement portion 2322 is coupled to and/or
engaged with the biasing member 2146, as described before herein.
At least a portion of the actuator 2320, for example, the plunger
portion 2324, is slidably disposed in the internal volume 2316
defined by the medicament containment chamber 2310. Thus, the
actuator 2320 can be displaced within the internal volume 2316 for
drawing and/or expelling the medicament from the internal volume
2316 defined by the medicament containment chamber 2310.
[0161] As shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, a protrusion 2325 is disposed
at a distal end of the plunger portion 2324. The protrusion 2325 is
configured to be inserted into a plug 2328 with close tolerance
(e.g., friction-fit). The plug 2328 can be slidably disposed in the
internal volume 2316 of the medicament containment chamber 2310. A
distal end of the plug 2328 can be in fluid communication with the
medicament disposed in the internal volume 2316 defined by the
medicament containment chamber 2310. The sidewalls of the plug 2328
can be in contact with the sidewalls of the internal volume 2316
such that the plug forms a fluid tight seal to prevent leakage of
the medicament. The plug 2328 can be made of an inert and/or
biocompatible which is rigid but soft. Example materials include
rubber, silicone, plastic, polymers, any other suitable material or
combination thereof.
[0162] The injector assembly 2100 is configured to produce a force
to inject or otherwise assist in injecting the medicament from the
medicament containment chamber 2310 into the ocular tissue, for
example, the SCS. Furthermore, the injector assembly 2100 can be
configured to exert a predetermined force and/or a force within a
desired range on the actuator 2320 sufficient to expel the
medicament only when an outlet of a puncturing member (e.g., a
needle such as a 27 gauge, a 30 gauge or any needle described
herein) is within or otherwise near the target injection site, for
example, the SCS. Similarly stated, the injector assembly 2100 can
be configured to exert a predetermined force on the actuator (or
push rod) 2320 and/or the plug 2328 such that the actuator 2320
and/or the plug 2328 move when the backpressure against the opening
of a delivery member (e.g., a puncture member or needle, not shown)
is below a desired level. As described below, the amount of
backpressure against the delivery member can be a function of the
tissue characteristics of the target tissue (e.g., tissue density,
presence of voids, tissue type, etc.). Thus, the injector assembly
2100 can produce motive force when the opening of the delivery
member is within a desired target location (e.g., the SCS). FIGS.
16A to 16E show the system 2000 that includes the injector assembly
in various states of operation as described herein.
[0163] In a first state shown in FIG. 16A, a portion of the
medicament containment chamber 2310 is disposed in the housing 2110
of the injector assembly 2100. The flange 2313 of the medicament
containment chamber 2310 can be contiguous and/or in contact with
the ribs 2116 of the housing 2110. The actuator 2320 is pushed into
the medicament containment chamber 2310 such that the plunger
portion 2324 of the actuator 2320 occupies substantially all of the
internal volume 2316 of the medicament containment chamber 2310 and
there is no medicament in the internal volume 2316. Additionally,
the guide rode 2140 is disposed in a first relative position within
the actuator (or push rod) 2320. In the first state, the biasing
member 2146 is coupled to the engagement portion 2322 of the
actuator 2320 and is unbiased (or in an expanded configuration).
Said another way, the system 2000 is unarmed in the first state.
Thus, in the first state (or configuration), the system 2000 can be
shipped, stored or the like.
[0164] To move the system 2000 to the second state shown in FIG.
16B, the user moves the medicament containment chamber 2310
proximally relative to the injector assembly 2100. This can be
achieved by applying a force on the housing 2110 and/or the
medicament containment chamber 2310 such that the force pushes the
medicament containment chamber 2310 into the housing 2110 in the
direction shown by the arrow A. The housing 2110 is shaped and
sized to prevent any rotational motion of the medicament
containment chamber 2310 relative to the housing 2110. Motion of
medicament containment chamber 2130 relative to the injector
assembly 2100, also urges the actuator 2320 to slide over the guide
rod 2140 and move relative to the injector assembly 2100. Thus,
when the injector assembly 2100 is in the second state, the guide
rod 2140 is disposed in a second relative position within the
actuator (or push rod) 2320. Furthermore, the biasing member 2146
is biased (or compressed) when the injector assembly 2100 is in the
second state. The force is maintained until the latch 2134 of the
pawl 2130 engages and secures the engagement portion 2322 of the
actuator 2320. The pawl 2130 includes an angled surface such that
the engagement portion 2322 can slide past the latch 2134 in a
proximal direction but cannot move past the latch 2134 in a distal
direction. Thus, in the second state, the system 2000 is "armed"
and is ready to be filled with a medicament.
[0165] The user can now couple a transfer needle, puncture member
and/or delivery member (not shown) to the delivery portion 2314 of
the medicament containment chamber 2310. The puncturing member can
be inserted into a container of the medicament, for example,
inserted through a septum of a vial containing the medicament. The
system 2000 can then be moved into a third state (or configuration)
to fill the medicament containment chamber 2310 with a substance.
To move the injector assembly 2100 to the third state shown in FIG.
16C, a force can be applied on the medicament containment chamber
2310 and/or the housing 2110 to move the medicament containment
chamber 2310 distally relative to the injector assembly 2100 in the
direction shown by the arrow B. In this manner, the medicament
containment chamber 2310 is drawn out of (moved distally relative
to) the housing 2110. The engagement portion 2322 of the actuator
2320 remains secured by the latch 2134 of the pawl 2130 in the
third state. Therefore, the relative motion of the medicament
containment chamber 2310 to the housing 2110 urges the plunger
portion 2324 of the actuator 2320 to slide within the internal
volume 2316 of the medicament containment chamber 2310 until the
plunger portion 2324 is proximate to the engagement portion 2312 of
the medicament containment chamber 2310. The displacement of the
actuator 2320 and the plug 2328 creates a suction force within the
internal volume 2316 of the medicament containment chamber 2310,
which draws the medicament into the internal volume 2316.
[0166] To place the injector assembly 2100 in a fourth state (shown
in FIG. 16D), the user can move the medicament containment chamber
2310 proximally relative to the injector assembly 2100 such that
the medicament containment chamber 2310 moves into the housing 2110
as shown by the arrow C. In the fourth state, the medicament
containment chamber 2310 is partially drawn into the housing 2110.
Since the actuator 2320 is still secured by the pawl 2130 in the
fourth state, moving the housing 2310 urges the plunger portion
2324 of the actuator 2320 (and thus the plug 2328) to also slide in
the internal volume 2316 proximally relative to the medicament
containment chamber 2310. In this manner, the plunger portion 2324
of the actuator 2320 expels a portion of the medicament from the
internal volume 2316. Said another way, the user can expel air from
the internal volume 2316 and/or adjust a dose of the medicament in
the fourth state.
[0167] Prior to injecting the medicament (i.e., moving the injector
assembly 2000 to a fifth state shown in FIG. 16E), a puncturing
member (e.g., a 27 gauge needle, a 30 gauge needle, or any other
puncturing members described herein), or a needle assembly (e.g.,
the needle assembly 3200 or any other needle assembly described
herein) can be coupled to the delivery portion 2314 of the
medicament containment chamber 2310. While not shown, a hub can
also be coupled to the delivery portion 2314, which is configured
to contact an ocular tissue. The hub can include a hub that
includes a convex distal end, a flat distal end, features for
aligning the system 2000 on a surface (e.g., conjunctiva) of the
eye, or any other hub described herein. For example, in some
embodiments, the hub can include a convex distal end surface
configured to form a substantially fluid-tight seal with a target
surface around the insertion site (see e.g., hub 7270 included in
the medical injector 7000).
[0168] The user can insert the puncturing member into an eye, until
an outlet of the puncturing member is in or otherwise near a target
delivery layer, for example, the SCS. The user can manually adjust
the insertion depth of the puncturing member or a needle assembly
to increase or decrease the insertion depth of the puncturing
member (e.g., as described in further detail with reference to
needle assembly 3200). To initiate injection (i.e., to move the
injector assembly 2100 to the fifth configuration), the user can
then exert a force on the engagement surface 2121 of the actuating
member 2120 in the direction shown by the arrow D. This urges the
engagement protrusion 2122 to slide in the slot 2117 distally to
the user into the housing 2110 and engage the engagement surface
2132 of the pawl 2130. The engagement protrusion 2122 can urge the
pawl 2130 to rotate about the protrusions 2137, such the biasing
portion 2136 is biased and the latch 2134 disengages from the
engagement portion 2322 of the actuator 2320. The biasing member
2146 exerts a force on the engagement portion 2322 of the actuator
2320 and urges the actuator 2320 to displace proximally relative to
the medicament containment chamber 2310. Thus, the plunger portion
2324 of the actuator slides an injection distance within the
internal volume 2316 of the medicament containment chamber 2310 and
expels the medicament into the eye via the puncturing member. The
housing 2110 and/or the medicament containment chamber 2310 can be
configured to prevent the housing 2110 from displacing distally
relative to the medicament containment chamber 2310 in the fifth
state. For example, in some embodiments, the flange 2313 of the
medicament containment chamber 2310 and/or an inner surface of the
housing 2110 can have a high friction surface. The flange 2313 and
the inner surface of the housing 2110 can contact each other to
yield a high friction interface which can prevent the housing 2110
from displacing distally relative to the medicament containment
chamber 2310 in the fifth state. In some embodiments, notches,
grooves, indents, or any other features can be defined in the
internal volume of the housing 2110, and/or the flange 2313. In
some embodiments, a locking mechanism, for example, a twist lock
mechanism, a push pin, a latch, a ledge, or any other suitable
locking mechanism can be included in the housing 2110. In such
embodiments, the user can engage the locking mechanism (e.g., twist
the housing 2110 relative to the medicament containment chamber
2310, depress a pin, etc.) such that the housing 2110 can be
prevented from displacing distally relative to the medicament
containment chamber 2310 in the fifth state. In this manner, the
force exerted by the biasing member 2146 is applied to move the
actuator (or actuation rod) 2320 distally relative to (and/or
within) the medicament containment chamber 2310, as opposed to
being applied to move the entirety of the medicament containment
chamber 2310 relative to the housing 2110.
[0169] In some embodiments, the injector assembly 2100 can be used
as an injection-assist assembly to enable a user to inject the
medicament into a desired tissue of the eye, for example, the SCS.
In such embodiments, the biasing member 2146 can be configured to
exert a predetermined force on the actuator 2320, for example a
force of less than about 6N, less than about 5 N, less than about
4N, less than about 3 N, or less than about 2 N, inclusive of all
ranges therebetween. The force can be sufficient to expel the
medicament from the medicament containment chamber 2310 when the
backpressure, existing or applied at an outlet of the puncturing
member, is below a certain threshold. As described before herein,
different layers of the eye can have different densities, for
example, the sclera is much denser then the SCS. Therefore, a
puncturing member inserted into the sclera will experience a much
higher backpressure than a puncturing member near or within the
SCS. The biasing member 2146 can be configured to exert a force,
which is only sufficient to overcome the backpressure experienced
in the target layer, for example, the SCS, but is not sufficient to
overcome the backpressure of any other layer, for example, the
sclera. In this manner, the biasing member 2146 urges the actuator
2320 to expel the medicament only into the target layer, for
example, the SCS. The backpressure experienced by the actuator can
vary based on the medicament used, the size of the puncturing
member, the target ocular tissue layer, and/or thickness of the
target layer. If the force delivered by the biasing member 2146 is
too high, injection can occur in the incorrect target layer, for
example, the sclera. Conversely, if the biasing force is too small,
injection might not occur even when the outlet of the puncturing
member is within or near the target layer, for example, the SCS. To
overcome this, the biasing member 2146 can be tailored based on the
medicament used, the needle size, the size of the medicament
containment chamber 2310, the actuator 230, and/or target layer. In
some embodiments, the actuator 2320 and the medicament containment
chamber 2310 can be collectively configured such that the force
exerted by the biasing member 2146 produces an injection pressure
within the internal volume 2316 of the medicament containment
chamber 2310 of between about 100 kPa and about 500 kPa. For
example, the system 2000 can be configured such that the same
injection pressure is produced within the medicament containment
chamber 2310, regardless of the size (e.g., diameter or otherwise
cross-section) of the medicament containment chamber 2310 and/or
the actuator 2320, the material of the actuator 2320 or the
medicament containment chamber 2310, the volume of the medicament,
the viscosity of the medicament, and/or the size of the puncture
member. In some embodiments, the pressure produced in the
medicament containment chamber 2310 can be about 100 kPa, 110 kPa,
120 kPa, 130 kPa, 140 kPa, 150 kPa, 160 kPa, 170 kPa, 180 kPa, 190
kPa, 200 kPa, 220 kPa, 240 kPa, 260 kPa, 280 kPa, 300 kPa, 320 kPa,
340 kPa, 360 kPa, 380 kPa, 400 kPa, 420 kPa, 440 kPa, 460 kPa, or
about 480 kPa, inclusive of all ranges and values therebetween.
[0170] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the injector assembly 2100
can also be used to inform the user when the puncturing member is
within or near the target layer. For example, the housing 2110 can
be transparent such that the user can see the actuator 2320 and/or
the medicament containment chamber 2310. The user can insert the
puncturing member into the eye and engage the actuating member 2120
such that the latch 2134 disengages the engagement portion 2322 of
the actuator 2320. If the puncturing member is within or near the
target layer, for example, the SCS, the biasing member 2146
overcomes the backpressure exerted by the target layer and
displaces the actuator 2320 to move the injection distance and
initiate injection of the medicament into the target layer. The
user can visibly observe the actuator 2320 and/or the plug 2328
displacing within the housing 2110 and can be informed that the
puncturing member is within or otherwise near the target layer, for
example, the SCS. If the puncturing member is in a layer other than
the target layer, for example, the sclera, the biasing member 2146
will not overcome the backpressure of the other layer and the
actuator 2320 will not displace proximally relative to the
medicament containment chamber 2310. This can inform the user that
the puncturing member is not within or near the target layer. The
user can then manipulate the puncturing member to reach within or
near the target layer and initiate injection of the medicament. In
some embodiments, any other communication mechanism, for example,
audible alarm, LED light, a message, a display, a tactile alert, or
any other communication mechanism can be used to inform the user
about the location of the puncturing member. In some embodiments,
the biasing member 2146 can be configured to exert a force
sufficient to expel substantially all of the medicament into the
target layer, for example, the SCS. In some embodiments, the
biasing member 2146 can be configured to exert a force sufficient
to initiate injection but not enough to expel all of the medicament
into the target layer. In such embodiments, the injection distance
can be a first injection distance. Once the injection is initiated,
the user can then move the injection assembly 2100 and thereby the
actuator 2320 a second injection distance proximally relative to
the medicament containment chamber 2310. In this manner, the
remaining medicament can be delivered to the target layer of the
eye.
[0171] FIG. 17 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method 200 of
delivering a medicament to a target layer of a target tissue (or at
a predetermined distance within the target tissue) using a medical
injector that includes an injection assembly. The method 200
includes inserting a distal tip of a needle of a medical injector
(e.g., the system 100, 1000, 2000, or any other system described
herein) a first distance into a target tissue, at 202. The needle
can include any suitable needle, for example, the needle 140 or any
other needle described herein. The medical injector includes a
medicament container (e.g., the medicament container 130, 1310,
2310, or any other medicament container described herein) and an
injection assembly (e.g., the injection assembly 111, 2100, or any
other injection assembly described herein. The medicament container
is in fluid communication with the needle. The injection assembly
includes an actuation rod (e.g., the actuation rod 120, the
actuator 2320, or any other actuator described herein) and an
energy storage member (e.g., the energy storage member 146, 2146,
or any other energy storage member described herein). The energy
storage member is configured to produce a force on a proximal end
portion of the actuation rod.
[0172] The method 200 further includes releasing the actuation rod
of the injection assembly allowing a distal end portion of the
actuation rod to move within the medicament container in response
to the force, at 204. For example, a proximal end portion of the
actuation rod can be secured or otherwise engaged by a release
member, for example, a pawl (e.g., the pawl 2130) or any other
release member described herein. The release member can, for
example, be moved from a first position in which the actuation rod
is secured to a second position in which the actuation rod is
released. As described herein, in certain situations the force will
be insufficient to overcome the viscous forces, tissue
backpressure, frictional losses or the like within the fluid
delivery path defined by the medicament container, the needle and
the target tissue when the needle at the first distance within the
tissue. Thus, the actuation rod may not move, or may move less than
a threshold "injection distance."
[0173] Accordingly, the distal tip of the needle included in the
medical injector can be inserted, after the releasing, a second
distance greater than the first distance into the target tissue
(e.g., the ocular tissue of an eye) if the distal end portion of
the actuation rod moves less than a threshold injection distance
within the medicament container in response to the force, at 206.
The injection distance can be a distance that the distal end
portion of the actuation rod moves within the medicament container
after the releasing. In some embodiments, the injection distance is
less than about 1 cm. In this manner, the lack of movement and/or
the limited movement of the actuation rod in operation 204 provides
an indication to the user that additional movement and/or
repositioning of the needle tip is desirable. Conversely, when the
distal end portion of the actuation rod moves through the injection
distance within the medicament container, the user is aware that
the needle tip is in a suitable region of the target tissue.
[0174] In some embodiments, the distal end portion of the actuation
rod can move a first injection distance within the medicament
container in response to the force, for example, to deliver a
portion of the medicament to the target tissue, for example, the
SCS. In such embodiments, the method 200 can further include moving
the injection assembly relative to the medicament container to move
the distal end portion of the actuation rod a second injection
distance greater than the first injection distance within the
medicament container 208. For example, the force can move the
actuation rod the first injection distance once the distal tip of
the needle is disposed within or near a desired region of the
target tissue. This can indicate to a user that the distal tip of
the needle is disposed within or near a desired region of the
target tissue. The actuation rod can then be moved proximally
relative to the medicament container such that the actuation rod
moves the second injection distance within the medicament
container. In some embodiments, the distal end portion of the
actuation rod can be moved the second injection distance manually
by a user, for example, by moving the housing proximally to the
medicament container. In other embodiments, the medical injector
can include an automated delivery mechanism (e.g., a mechanical
actuator, a pump, or any other suitable automated delivery
mechanism) configured to move the actuation rod the second
injection distance and deliver substantially all of the medicament
to the target tissue.
[0175] In some embodiments, the target tissue can be an eye. In
such embodiments, the inserting of the distal tip of the needle of
the medical injector the second distance into the eye includes
inserting at least a portion of the distal tip into a
suprachoroidal space of the eye. In some embodiments, inserting the
distal tip of needle of the medical injector the second distance
includes contacting a surface of the eye with a hub coupled to the
needle. The hub can include the hub 7270, 8270, 9270 or any other
hub described herein in further detail below.
[0176] FIG. 18 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method 300 for
delivering a medicament to a target layer of a target tissue or a
predetermined distance within the target tissue using a medical
injector that includes an injection assembly. The method 300
includes inserting a distal tip of a needle of a medical injector
(e.g., the medical injector 100, 1000, 2000 or any other medical
injector described herein, into a medicament contained within a
medicament vial 302. The medicament vial can be any suitable
commercially available medicament vial, bottle, container, or any
other vessel housing a medicament. The medicament can include any
suitable medicament (e.g., VEGF, a VEGF inhibitor, a combination
thereof, or any other medicament described herein) formulated to be
delivered to a target tissue (e.g., the SCS of the eye). The
medical injector includes a medicament container and an injection
assembly, and is in fluidic communication with the needle. The
injection assembly includes an actuation rod, and energy storage
member, a release member and an actuation member. In some
embodiments, the injection assembly and the components of the
injection assembly described herein can be substantially similar to
the components of the injection assembly 111, 2100, or any other
injection assembly described herein. The energy storage member
(e.g., a spring, a compressed gas container, or a container
containing a propellant) is configured to produce a force on a
proximal end portion of the actuation rod. The proximal end portion
of the actuation rod can be engaged and secured by the release
member. For example, the securing can lock the movement of the
actuation rod with respect to a housing within which the actuation
rod, the injection assembly, and/or at least a portion of the
medicament container is disposed. Said another way, the securing of
the proximal end portion of the actuation rod by the release member
prevents a distal end portion of the actuation rod from moving
relative to the housing. Furthermore, any movement of the housing
relative to the medicament container also urges the distal end
portion of the actuation rod to move within the medicament
container.
[0177] Next, the method includes moving the distal end portion of
the actuation rod distally relative to the medicament container to
draw a volume of the medicament within the medicament container, at
304. Then, the medicament container is moved proximally relative to
the actuation rod to expel a volume of the medicament from the
distal tip of the needle and leave a dose volume of the medicament
remaining in the medicament container, at 306. Said another way,
any excess medicament drawn into the medicament container can be
expelled from the medicament container by moving the medicament
container proximally relative to the actuation rod.
[0178] The distal tip of the needle is then inserted a first
distance into a target tissue, for example, an ocular tissue, at
308. The actuation member is activated (e.g., by a user) to
disengage the release member form the actuation rod, thereby
releasing the proximal end portion of the actuation rod. This
allows the distal end portion of the actuation rod to move a first
injection distance within the medicament container in response to
the force produced by the energy storage member, at 310. As
described herein, the actuation rod will move the first injection
distance (or a great amount) when the needle tip is disposed within
a desired region of the target tissue. Conversely, when the needle
tip is not disposed within a desired region of the target tissue,
the force produced by the energy storage member is insufficient to
move the actuation rod by the first injection distance.
[0179] The method 300 then includes determining if the actuation
rod has moved a threshold injection distance, at 312, for example,
the first injection distance. For example, a user can visually
observe if the distal end portion of the actuation rod moved within
the medicament container or not (e.g., through a transparent
housing of the medical injector). If the actuation rod did not
move, the distal tip of the needle of the medical injector is
inserted, after the releasing, a second distance greater than the
first distance into the target tissue, at 314. In this manner, the
user can reposition the needle tip (e.g., by inserting further, or
removing from the tissue) in response to the indication produced by
the actuation rod.
[0180] For example, the first distance can correspond to a sclera
of the eye, which has a backpressure that, in conjunction with the
frictional losses, viscous loses and the like via the fluid flow
path, cannot be overcome by the force of the energy storage member.
Thus, the actuation member does move the first injection distance
to deliver at least a portion of the medicament into the sclera.
The distal tip of the needle is then moved the second distance
which can correspond to a target region of the target tissue, for
example, the SCS. The method then returns to operation 312 to
determine if the actuation rod has moved the first injection
distance. If the actuation rod has moved the first injection
distance, this confirms that the distal tip of the needle is
disposed in the desired target region. For example, the target
region can be SCS, which has a lower backpressure than that
produced by the sclera. The force exerted by the energy storage
member can be configured to overcome this backpressure such that
the distal end portion of the actuation rod can be moved the first
injection distance and deliver at least a portion of the medicament
into the target tissue via the distal tip of the needle. In some
embodiments, the force can be between about 2 N to about 6 N.
Finally, the distal end portion of the actuation rod is moved a
second injection distance until substantially all of the medicament
is expelled from the medicament container into the target tissue
(e.g., the SCS) at 316, via the distal tip of the needle. For
example, the user can manually move the distal end portion of the
actuation rod, or use any suitable actuation mechanism included in
the medical injector to move the distal end portion of the actuator
the second injection distance.
[0181] In some embodiments, a medical injector can include a needle
assembly configured to adjust the length of a needle, for example,
to adjust a distance the needle penetrates into a target tissue,
for example, an ocular tissue. FIGS. 19 and 20 are schematic
illustration of a medical injector 400 in a first configuration and
a second configuration, according to an embodiment. The medical
injector 400 includes a housing 410, an actuator rod 420, a
medicament container 430, a needle 440, and an adjustment member
423. Optionally, the medical injector 400 can also include a hub
470 coupled to the housing 410. The housing 410 is configured to
receive a portion of the medicament container 430. The housing 410
can include any suitable housing, for example, the housing 3210, or
any other housing described herein with respect to a needle
assembly.
[0182] The needle 440 can be any suitable puncture member
configured to puncture a target tissue. For example, the needle 440
can be a microneedle configured to puncture ocular tissue. In some
embodiments, the needle 440 can be a 32-gauge microneedle or a
34-gauge microneedle. In some embodiments, such a microneedle can
be substantially similar to or the same as the microneedles
described in the '009 PCT application incorporated by reference
above. In some embodiments, the shape and/or size of the needle 440
can correspond, at least partially, with at least a portion of a
target tissue. For example, in some embodiments, the length of the
needle 440 can correspond with a thickness of a portion of ocular
tissue such that when the needle 440 is inserted into the ocular
tissue, at least a portion of the needle 440 is disposed within the
sclera or suprachoroidal space of the eye, as described in further
detail herein. The needle 440 defines a lumen 441 that extends
through a proximal end portion 443 and a distal end portion 442 of
the needle 440. The distal end portion 442 of the needle 440 can
include a bevel or a sharpened tip configured to puncture a target
tissue. At least a portion of the proximal end portion of the
needle 440 can be disposed in a passageway defined by the hub 470,
as described herein.
[0183] The medicament container 430 of the medical injector 400 has
a proximal end portion 432 and a distal end portion 434. The
medicament container 430 defines an inner volume 436 that can
store, house, and/or otherwise contain a substance (e.g., a
medicament, a prophylactic agent, a therapeutic agent, and/or a
diagnostic agent). For example, in some embodiments, a cartridge or
the like containing a drug formulation can be disposed within the
inner volume 436 of the medicament container 430. In other
embodiments, a drug formulation can be disposed directly within the
inner volume 436 (e.g., without a cartridge or other intermediate
reservoir). In some embodiments, the inner volume 436 can contain a
drug formulation with a volume of about 0.5 mL or less. In other
embodiments, the inner volume 436 can contain a drug formulation
with a volume of about 0.1 mL. In still other embodiments, the
inner volume 436 can contain a drug formulation with a volume
greater the about 0.5 mL. In some embodiments, the medicament
container 430 can be substantially similar to the medicament
container 1310, 2310, 3310, or any other medicament container
described herein.
[0184] The proximal end portion 432 of the medicament container 430
is substantially open to receive the actuation rod 420. More
specifically, a distal end portion 424 of the actuation rod 420 is
disposed within the inner volume 436 and can be moved between a
first position (e.g., a proximal position) and a second position
(e.g., a distal position). Said another way, the distal end portion
424 of the actuation rod 420 can move an injection distance within
the inner volume 426. A sealing member such as, for example, a plug
can be coupled to the distal end portion 424 of the actuation rod
420. The sealing member can be configured to form a friction fit
with one or more surfaces of the medicament container 430 that
define the inner volume 436. In this manner, the seal member and
the medicament container 430 can form a fluidic seal that
substantially isolates a portion of the inner volume 436 that is
distal to the seal member from a portion of the inner volume 436
that is proximal to the seal member. Said another way, the
medicament container 430 and the actuation rod 420 form at least a
portion of a syringe.
[0185] In some embodiments, the distal end portion 434 of the
medicament container 430 is physically and fluidically coupled to
the hub 470. For example, in some embodiments, the hub 470 and the
distal end portion 434 of the medicament container 430 can form a
press fit, a snap fit, a threaded coupling, and/or the like. In
other embodiments, the hub 470 can be monolithically formed with
the medicament container 430. The hub 470 can define a passageway
configured to receive the needle 440 therethrough such that the
distal end portion 442 of the needle extends past a distal end
surface of the hub 470 by a distance, for example, a first distance
d.sub.1 (see e.g., FIG. 19) that can change, for example, to a
second distance d.sub.2 (see e.g., FIG. 20) or any other distance,
when the needle is moved through a plurality of discrete increments
along the longitudinal axis of the housing 410, as described
herein. In some embodiments, the hub 470 can also be configured to
limit movement of the adjustment member 422 within the housing
410.
[0186] A proximal end portion of the adjustment member 423 is
configured to be coupled to the medicament container 430. The
coupling can be performed using any suitable coupling mechanism,
for example, a Luer lock, threads, snap-fit, friction-fit, or any
other suitable coupling mechanism. A distal end portion of the
adjustment member 423 is coupled to the needle 440, for example, to
the proximal end portion 443 of the needle 440. In some
embodiments, the adjustment member 423 can define a lumen
configured to place the medicament container 430 in fluid
communication with the needle 440. In some embodiments, the
proximal end portion of the adjustment member 423 can also include
a flange configured to be removably coupled to the medicament
container 430. The adjustment member 420 is configured to
transition between a first configuration (FIG. 19) and a second
configuration (FIG. 20) to adjust the distance that the distal end
portion 442 of the needle 440 extends past the distal end surface
of the hub 470. For example, the adjustment member 423 can be
movably disposed within the housing 410 such that when the
adjustment member 423 is rotated relative to the housing 410, the
needle 440 is moved through a plurality of discrete increments
along a longitudinal axis of the housing 410. In this manner, the
adjustment member 423 can adjust the effective length of the needle
440 in the plurality of discrete increments. Said another way, the
adjustment member 423 can allow digital adjustment of the length of
the needle 440. While not shown, in some embodiments, the
adjustment member 423 and/or the housing 410 can include a
plurality of detents. The detents can be configured such that each
increment from the plurality of discrete increments is associated
with a corresponding detent from the plurality of detents defined
by at least one of the adjustment member 423 and/or the housing
410. For example, the housing 410 can include a protrusion
configured to be removably disposed within each detent from the
plurality of detents when the adjustment member 423 is rotated
relative to the housing 410 to move the needle 440 through the
plurality of discrete increments. As another example, in some
embodiments, a bearing can be coupled within the housing 410 and
configured to be removably disposed within each detent from the
plurality of detents when the adjustment member 422 is rotated
within the housing 410 to move the needle through the plurality of
discrete increments. In such embodiments, a bias member can also be
disposed in the housing 410 and configured to maintain the bearing
within a detent from the plurality of detents. In some embodiments,
the medical injector 400 can also include a lock member, for
example, a lock, a latch, a tab, a rod, or any other suitable lock
member removably coupled to the housing 410. The lock member can be
configured to engage the adjustment member 423 to limit movement of
the adjustment member 423 relative to the housing 410. In some
embodiments, at least a portion of the adjustment member 423 can
include an indication portion, for example, a portion including a
plurality of markings. The markings can be configured to indicate a
distance that the needle 440 extends beyond the housing 410 (e.g.,
extends beyond the distal end surface of the hub 470). In such
embodiments, the housing 410 can define a window such that the
indication portion is visible through the window. For example, a
user can view the indication portion through the window to
determine the distance that the needle 440 extends beyond the
housing 410 and estimate an insertion depth of the distal end 442
of the needle 440 into a target tissue.
[0187] As shown in FIG. 19, in the first configuration of the
adjustment member 423, the distal end portion 442 of the needle 440
can be spaced apart from a distal end surface of the hub 470 by a
first distance d.sub.1. The adjustment member 423 can then be moved
into a second configuration by moving (e.g., rotating, translating
or rotating and translating) the adjustment member 423 within the
housing 410. This urges the needle 440 to move in a discrete
increment such that distal end portion 442 of the needle 440
extends a second distance d.sub.2, larger than d.sub.1, beyond the
distal end surface of the hub 470, as shown in FIG. 20. In this
manner, a length of the needle 440 extending beyond the distal edge
surface of the hub 470 can be adjusted.
[0188] In use, an operator (e.g., a doctor, technician, nurse,
physician, ophthalmologist, etc.) can manipulate the delivery
device 400 to insert the needle 440 into, for example, an ocular
tissue. In this manner, the distal end portion 442 of the needle
440 can be advanced within the target tissue to pierce the sclera
and place the hub 470 in contact with an outer surface of the
sclera. Moreover, with the adjustment member 422 in the first
configuration, the first distance d.sub.1 between the distal end
surface of the hub 470 and the distal end portion 442 of the needle
440 can substantially correspond to the thickness of the sclera. In
this manner, a distal tip of the needle 440 can be disposed within
the sclera (e.g., the sclera 20 of the eye 10 in FIG. 1).
[0189] The adjustment member 423 can be transitioned from the first
configuration to the second configuration by moving, translating or
rotating the adjustment member 423 within the housing 410. In some
embodiments, the moving of the adjustment member 423 can be
performed by moving (e.g., rotating) the medicament container 430
relative to the housing 410. This can increase the distance between
the distal end surface of the hub 470 and the distal end portion
423 of the needle 440 from the first distance d.sub.1 to the second
distance d.sub.2 (as described above). In this manner, when the
adjustment member 422 is in the second configuration, the distal
tip of the needle 440 can be moved further proximally relative to
the ocular tissue to place the lumen 441 of the needle 440 in fluid
communication with the suprachoroidal space (e.g., the
suprachoroidal space 36 of the eye 10 in FIG. 1). With the lumen
441 of the needle 440 in fluid communication with the
suprachoroidal space, the actuation rod 420 can be moved relative
to the medicament container 430 from its first position to its
second position. With the distal end portion 424 of the actuation
rod 420 forming a substantially fluidic seal (i.e., a substantially
hermetic seal) with an inner surface of the medicament container
430, the movement of the actuation rod 420 to its second position
expels the drug formulation (contained within the inner volume of
the medicament container 430) through the lumen 441 of the needle
440. Thus, the medical injector 400 can deliver the drug
formulation to the SCS of the eye and the drug formulation can flow
within the suprachoroidal space to be delivered to, for example,
the posterior region of the eye.
[0190] By adjusting the distance between the distal edge surface of
the hub 470 and the distal end portion 442 of the needle 440 in
discrete increments using the adjustment member 423, the distal end
portion 442 of the needle 440 can be placed within the SCS with
more accuracy and precision than would otherwise be achieved with a
fixed distance therebetween. For example, in some instances, the
adjustment member 423 can be arranged such that the first distance
d.sub.1 between the distal end surface of the hub 470 and the
distal end portion 442 of the needle 440 is less than the thickness
of the sclera. Thus, the adjustment member 423 can be moved to the
second configuration to increase the distance between the distal
edge surface of the hub 470 and the distal end portion 442 of the
needle 440 (e.g., to the second distance d.sub.2) that is greater
than the thickness of the sclera, thereby placing the distal end
portion 442 of the needle 440 in contact with the SCS. Moreover,
the second distance d.sub.2 can be less than a combined thickness
of the sclera and the SCS such that when the adjustment member 423
is moved to the second configuration, the distal end portion 442 of
the needle 440 does not pierce the choroid (e.g., the choroid 28 of
the eye 10 in FIG. 1).
[0191] The arrangement of the adjustment member 423, the needle
440, and the hub 470 allows for control of the effective length of
the needle 440. Accordingly, the medical injector 400 can be used
for procedures involving different portions of a target tissue
(e.g., the eye) having different thicknesses. Moreover, control
over the effective length of the needle 440, as described herein,
allows the medical injector 400 to be used on a variety of patients
having a range of anatomical differences (e.g., the device can be
used in adult applications and pediatric applications).
[0192] The transition of the adjustment member 423 (and any of the
needle assemblies described herein) between the first configuration
and the second configuration can be performed at any suitable time
before and/or during a procedure. For example, in some embodiments,
the adjustment member 423 can be transitioned to the second
configuration to set and/or adjust the effective length of the
needle 440 before insertion of the needle 440 into the target
tissue. The desired effective length of the needle 440 in such
embodiments can be based on the known thickness of the sclera based
on pre-operation measurements or the like. In other embodiments,
however, the adjustment member 422 can be transitioned to the
second configuration after the needle 440 has been inserted into
the target tissue. In this manner, the adjustment member 422 can
provide the operator with a mechanism for adjusting the effective
length of the needle 440 in discrete increments during the
procedure (e.g., based on tactile feedback, optical feedback or the
like).
[0193] The medical injector 400 is shown in FIGS. 19-20 by way of
example to provide context to the proceeding discussion. In this
manner and for simplicity, only portions of a medical injector
according to specific embodiments are shown. It should be
understood that any of the embodiments described herein can be
disposed in a similar arrangement as described above with reference
to FIGS. 19-20. Moreover, while the delivery device 400 is shown
and described with reference to FIGS. 19-20 as having a particular
arrangement, the embodiments described herein can be used with any
suitable delivery mechanism or device.
[0194] In some embodiments, a system for injecting a medicament
into ocular tissue can include a needle assembly configured to
perform any of the functions described herein. In other
embodiments, a needle assembly can be configured to adjust the
length and/or insertion depth of the needle. Referring now to FIGS.
21-33 a system 3000 can include at least a housing 3110, a
medicament containment chamber 3310, an actuator 3320, and a needle
assembly 3200. The needle assembly 3200 can be configured to adjust
a length of a puncturing member 3240 (also referred to as a
delivery member and/or a needle) included in the needle assembly
3200, as described herein. The system 3000 can be configured to
deliver a medicament to a layer or region of an eye of patient, for
example, to the SCS of the eye.
[0195] The housing 3110 can include any of the housings described
herein and is configured to receive at least a portion of the
medicament containment chamber 3310. In some embodiments, the
housing 3110 can be substantially similar to the housing 1110
described with respect to the system 1000. In such embodiments, the
housing 3110 can be configured for manual manipulation of the
actuator 3320 to inject the medicament. In some embodiments, an
injector assembly can be disposed in the housing 3110. The injector
assembly can be substantially similar to the injector assembly 2100
or any other injector assembly described herein, and is therefore
not described in further detail herein.
[0196] The medicament containment chamber 3310 defines an internal
volume 3316 configured to house a medicament (e.g., a VEGF, a VEGF
inhibitor, triamcinolone acetonide, any other medicament described
herein, or a combination thereof). The medicament containment
chamber 3310 includes an engagement portion disposed inside the
internal volume defined by the housing 3110. The medicament
containment chamber 3310 also includes a delivery portion disposed
outside the internal volume defined by the housing 3110 and coupled
to the needle assembly 3200. The medicament containment chamber
3310 can be substantially similar to the medicament containment
chamber 1310, 2310 or any other medicament containment chamber
described herein, and is therefore not described in further detail
herein.
[0197] The actuator 3320 includes an engagement portion and a
plunger portion. The plunger portion is slidably disposed inside
the internal volume 3316 defined by the medicament containment
chamber 3310 and is configured to draw the medicament into or expel
the medicament from the internal volume 3316 defined by the
medicament containment chamber 3310. The actuator 3320 can be
substantially similar to the actuator 1320, 2320 or any other
actuator described herein, and is therefore not described in
further detail herein.
[0198] As shown in FIG. 22, the needle assembly 3200 includes a
housing 3210, a bearing (or lock ball) 3220, an adjustment member
3230, a puncturing member 3240, a lead screw 3242, a bushing 3250,
a locking pin 3260, and a hub 3270. The needle assembly 3200 is
configured to enable linear translation of the puncturing member
3240 in fixed and/or discrete increments to allow a user to insert
the puncturing member to a desired depth within the eye, for
example, insertion to the depth of the SCS.
[0199] The housing 3210 (FIGS. 23A-C, FIGS. 32 and 33) includes a
proximal portion 3211 and a distal portion 3212. The housing 3210
can be substantially cylindrical in shape and tapers towards the
distal portion 3212. The housing 3210 defines an internal 3213
volume within which the bearing 3220, the adjustment member 3230,
at least a portion of the puncturing member 3240, the lead screw
3242, the bushing 3250, and at least a portion of the locking pin
3260 can be disposed. The internal volume 3213 defines a
substantially circular cross-section to allow one or more
components, for example, the adjustment member 3230 and/or the lead
screw 3242 to rotate about a longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the
system 3000 within the internal volume 3213. A delivery portion of
the medicament containment chamber 3310 can also be disposed in the
internal volume 3213. The distal portion 3212 of the housing 3210
is configured to receive a proximal end 3272 of the hub 3270 (see
FIGS. 31A-31C) or any other hub described herein. Coupling features
can be included in the distal portion 3212 to removably or fixedly
couple the proximal end 3272 of the hub 3270. Suitable coupling
features can include, for example, a friction fit mechanism,
threads, a Luer assembly, adhesive, lock, latch, groove, indents,
detents, a snap-fit mechanism, or any other suitable coupling
mechanism. A multiplicity of ridges 3214 are disposed on an outer
surface of the housing 3210. The ridges 3214 can be configured to
allow the user to ergonomically grip the housing 3210, for example,
when performing an injection of a medicament into the eye. A window
3216 is defined in the housing 3210. The window 3216 is configured
to align with an intermediate portion 3233 of the adjustment member
3230, such that the user can see a set of markings 3236 defined on
an outer surface of the intermediate portion 3233. The markings
3236 can indicate a length of the puncturing member 3240 protruding
from a distal end 3274 of the hub 3270, which can correspond to the
insertion depth of the puncturing member 3240 (e.g., a distance
that a distal tip of the puncturing member 3240 traverses into the
ocular tissue). A cavity 3218 is defined in the housing 3210. The
cavity 3218 is configured to receive the bearing 3220, a biasing
member 3221 and a plug 3222, as described in further detail herein.
A set of through holes 3219 are defined in the sidewall of the
housing 3210. The locking pin 3260 is inserted through the through
holes 3219, such that the locking pin passes through the internal
volume 3213 defined by the housing 3210, and at least a portion of
the locking pin 3260 is disposed within the internal volume
3213.
[0200] The bearing (or lock ball) 3220 is disposed in the cavity
3218 of the housing 3210. The bearing can be any suitable bearing,
for example, a metallic, plastic, or wooden bearing, a contoured
cylindrical member, or any other suitable bearing. A first end of
the biasing member 3221 is coupled and/or engaged with to the
bearing 3220, and a second end of the biasing member 3221 is
coupled to the plug 3222. The biasing member 3221 can include a
spring, for example, helical, compression, extension, spring
washers, Belleville washers, tapered, any other type of spring, or
any other suitable biasing member. At least a portion of the plug
3222 (FIGS. 24A-B) is disposed within the cavity such that the plug
3222 secures the biasing member 3221 and the bearing 3220 inside
the cavity 3218. The plug 3222 can include a dome shaped surface
with rounded edges. In some embodiments, the plug 3222 can be
fixedly coupled to the cavity 3218, for example, via adhesives. In
some embodiments, the plug 3222 can be removably coupled to the
cavity 3218 using a suitable coupling mechanism such as, for
example, friction-fit, threads, grooves, indents, detents, any
other suitable coupling mechanism or combination thereof. The plug
3222 can be configured to exert a force on and/or maintain a
position of the biasing member 3221 such that the biasing member
3221 exerts a force against the bearing 3220. The bearing (or lock
ball) 3220 is configured to engage at least one of a set of detents
3235 disposed on a distal portion 3234 of the adjustment member
3230. The biasing member 3221 biases the bearing 3220 inward
relative to the detents 3235 such that the bearing 3220 prevents
the adjustment member 3230 from rotating freely relative to the
housing 3210 about the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the system
3000. In this manner, the bearing 3220 allows a digital length
adjustment of a length of the puncturing member 3240, as described
in further detail herein. Similarly stated, the engagement of the
bearing 3220 in the detents 3235 allows the rotational position of
the adjustment member 3230 (and thus the effective length of the
puncturing member 3240) to be adjusted in discrete increments.
[0201] The adjustment member 3230 (FIG. 25, FIGS. 26A-B, FIG. 33)
includes a proximal portion 3232, an intermediate portion 3233, and
a distal portion 3234. The proximal portion 3232 is configured to
couple to a delivery portion of the medicament containment chamber
3310. The proximal portion 3232 can include coupling features, for
example, Luer lock connectors, threads, grooves, notches, indents,
snap-fit, friction-fit, lock, latch, any other suitable coupling
features or combination thereof. In this manner, the distal end
portion of the medicament containment chamber 3310 can be coupled
to the adjustment member 3230. In some embodiments, the delivery
portion of the medicament containment chamber 3310 can be fixedly
coupled to the proximal portion 3232, for example, by an adhesive.
In other embodiments, the delivery portion of the medicament
containment chamber 3310 can be removably coupled to the proximal
portion 3232, for example, to allow the user to replace the
medicament containment chamber 3310 to reuse the needle assembly
3200. In some embodiments, a locking feature (not shown), for
example, a lock, a latch, or a friction fit, can be included in the
proximal portion 3232. The locking feature can be configured to
prevent uncoupling of the delivery portion of the medicament
containment chamber 3310 from the proximal portion 3232 of the
adjustment member 3230 due to a rotation of the medicament
containment chamber 3310 (e.g., because of a rotation of the
housing 3310 by the user). For example, a user can rotate the
housing 3310 about the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the system 3000
urging the medicament containment chamber 3310 and thereby, the
adjustment member 3230 to also rotate about the longitudinal axis
A.sub.L. In this manner, the adjustment member 3230 can be
configured to vary the length of the puncturing member 3240
protruding through the distal end of the 3274 of the hub 3270, as
described in further detail herein.
[0202] The intermediate portion 3233 of the adjustment member 3230
includes markings 3236 corresponding to the length of the
puncturing member 3240 protruding through distal end 3274 the hub
3270. The intermediate portion 3233 is aligned with the window 3216
included in the housing 3210 such that the user can see the
markings 3236 through the window 3216 and determine the protruding
length of the puncturing member 3240. This can, for example,
indicate the insertion depth of the puncturing member 3240 into the
eye. In some embodiments, the markings 3236 can indicate a length
in the range of about 850 microns, 950 microns, 1050 microns, 1150
microns, or about 1250 microns. In such embodiments, the length
interval can be about 100 microns. The intermediate portion 3233
also includes a fluidic channel 3238 defined therethrough. The
fluidic cannel 3238 can be in fluidic communication with the
internal volume 3316 of the medicament containment chamber
3310.
[0203] The distal portion 3234 is fixedly coupled to a proximal
portion 3244 of the lead screw 3242. For example, the proximal
portion 3244 of the lead screw 3242 can be welded, bonded, adhered,
bolted, riveted, or fixedly mounted using any other coupling
mechanism to the distal portion 3234 of the adjustment member 3230.
In this manner, a rotation of the adjustment member 3230 can also
rotate the lead screw 3242 about the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of
the system 3000. The set of detents 3235 are defined on the outer
surface of the distal portion 3234 and are configured to be engaged
by the bearing 3220, as described herein. Although the lead screw
3242 and the adjustment member 3230 are shown and described as
being separate components that are joined together, in other
embodiments, the lead screw 3242 and the adjustment member 3230 can
be monolithically formed.
[0204] The lead screw 3242 (FIGS. 22, 25, 27A-B, 33) includes the
proximal portion 3244 and a distal portion 3246. The proximal
portion 3244 is fixedly coupled to distal portion 3234 of the
adjustment member 3230, as described herein. The distal portion
3246 is coupled to a proximal end of the puncturing member 3240
coupled thereto. The puncturing member 3240 can be a needle (e.g.,
a 27 gauge, a 30 gauge, or even smaller needle), or any other
puncturing member described herein. The puncturing member 3240
defines a lumen 3241 (FIG. 33) configured to fluidically
communicate the medicament to a target tissue of the eye, for
example, the SCS. The puncturing member 3240 is fixedly coupled to
the lead screw 3242 by any suitable mechanism. In this manner, a
rotation of the adjustment member 3230 and lead screw 3242 about
the longitudinal axis A.sub.L, which causes a linear translation of
the lead screw 3242 along the longitudinal axis A.sub.L, also urges
the puncturing member 3240 to rotate about or translate along the
longitudinal axis A.sub.L, respectively. The lead screw 3242
defines a lumen 3247 therethrough. The lumen 3247 is in fluidic
communication with the fluidic channel 3238 of the adjustment
member 3230 and the lumen 3241 of the puncturing member 3240. Thus,
the fluidic channel 3238 of the adjustment member 3230, and the
lumen 3247 of the lead screw 3242 provide a fluidic path for the
medicament to be communicated between the internal volume 3316 of
the medicament containment chamber 3310 and the lumen 3241 of the
puncturing member 3240, for example, delivered to a target layer
(e.g., the SCS) of the eye.
[0205] At least a portion of the outer surface of the lead screw
3242, for example, the distal portion 3246, includes threads 3248.
The threads 3248 are configured to mate with mating threads 3254
included in the bushing 3250. The bushing 3250 (FIGS. 22, 28A-C,
FIG. 33) is fixedly disposed inside the internal volume 3213
defined by the housing 3210. The bushing 3250 defines a lumen 3252
configured to receive the distal portion 3246 of the lead screw
3242 such that the threads 3248 of the lead screw 3242 are mated
with the mating threads 3254 disposed along the surface of the
lumen 3252 of the bushing 3250. Because the bushing 3250 is fixedly
disposed in the housing 3210, a rotation of the adjustment member
3230 and the lead screw 3242 relative to the housing 3210 about the
longitudinal axis A.sub.L urges the lead screw 3242 to move
linearly relative to the housing 3210 along the longitudinal axis
A.sub.L of the system 3000. Each full rotation of the lead screw
3242 can correspond to a predetermined translation distance of the
lead screw 3242 and thereby, the puncturing member 3240, along the
longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the system 3000. In this manner, the
adjustment member 3230 can be rotated (e.g., by rotating the
housing 3110) to rotate the lead screw 3230 and thereby, advance or
retract a predetermined length of the puncturing member 3240 from
the distal end 3274 of the hub 3270.
[0206] The locking pin 3260 (FIG. 29) is coupled to a tab 3262. As
shown in FIGS. 30A-C, the tab 3262 includes a cavity 3264
configured to receive at least a portion of the locking pin 3260.
In some embodiments, the tab 3262 can be removably coupled to the
locking pin 3260, for example via, threads, grooves, notches,
indents, detents, friction fit, or coupled using any other suitable
coupling mechanism. In some embodiments, the tab 3262 can be
fixedly coupled to the locking pin 3260, for example, via
adhesives. At least a portion of the tab 3262 can be substantially
flat. Although the locking pin 3260 is shown as being substantially
cylindrical, in other embodiments, the locking pin can define a
circular, oval, square, rectangular, polygonal, or any other
suitable cross section. The locking pin 3260 is configured to be
inserted through and/or within the through holes 3219 of the
housing 3210, such that at least a portion of the locking pin 3260
is disposed in the internal volume 3213 defined by the housing
3210.
[0207] The locking pin 3260 is configured to be moved from a first
configuration (or position) and a second configuration (or
position). In the first configuration, the locking pin 3260 is
inserted through the through holes 3219 and at least a portion of
the locking pin 3260 is disposed in proximity of the intermediate
portion 3233 of the adjustment member 3230. In the first
configuration, the locking pin 3260 is configured to prevent a
rotation of the adjustment member 3230 relative to the housing
3210, and thereby, the lead screw 3242. Thus, when the locking pin
3260 is in the first configuration, movement of the puncturing
member 3240 along the longitudinal axis A.sub.L of the system 3000
distally relative to the medicament containment chamber 3310, for
example, because of the rotation of the adjustment member 3260, is
limited. In a second configuration, the user can pull the tab 3262
and thereby the locking pin 3260 out of the through holes 3219 and
the internal volume 3213. Thus, in the second configuration the
adjustment member 3230 can be free to rotate relative to the
housing 3210, and thus move linearly along the longitudinal axis
A.sub.L, for example, to advance a length of the puncturing member
3240 from a distal end 3274 of the hub 3270. Said another way, the
locking pin 3260 can serve as a safety mechanism to prevent
accidental activation of the needle assembly 3200 and prevent
advancement of the puncturing member 3260 out of the distal end
3274 of the hub 3270.
[0208] The hub 3270 includes a proximal portion 3272 and a distal
portion 3274. The proximal portion 3272 is configured to be coupled
to the distal portion 3214 of the housing 3210 (or any other
housing defined herein) using any suitable coupling mechanism, for
example, friction-fit, threads, snap-fit, notches, grooves,
indents, detents, any other suitable coupling mechanism or
combination thereof. The hub 3270 defines a lumen 3276
therethrough. At least a portion of the puncturing member 3240 (or
any other puncturing member described herein) can be disposed in
the lumen 3276, and can be configured to advance through the lumen
3276 out of the distal end 3274. The distal end 3274 of the hub
3270 is substantially flat, and is configured to contact an outer
surface of the conjunctiva of the eye. Although the hub 3270 is
shown and described as having a flat distal end (or "contact")
surface, in some embodiments, a distal portion of a hub can define
substantially convex or curved surface, as described in further
detail herein.
[0209] In operation, the needle assembly 3200 is configured to
allow a user to adjust a length of the puncturing member 3240
emerging from the distal end of the hub 3270. FIG. 32 shows a
perspective view of the needle assembly 3200 and FIG. 33 shows a
cross-section of the needle assembly 3200 taken along the line
33-33. While shown as including the hub 3270, any other hub can be
coupled to the distal end 3212 of the housing 3210, for example,
the hub 7270, 8270, 9270, or any other hub described herein. The
proximal portion 3232 of the adjustment member 3230 can be coupled
to the delivery portion 3314 of the medicament containment chamber
3310. In a first configuration, a first length of the puncturing
member 3240 can be protruding from the distal end 5274 of the hub
5270, for example, about 850 microns. This information can be
communicated to the user via the markings 3236 visible to the user
through the window 3216. At least a portion of the bearing 3220 is
disposed in a first indent 3235 defined on the outer surface of the
distal portion 3234 of the adjustment member 3230. The bearing 3220
is biased against the first indent 3235 by the biasing member 3221,
and prevents any inadvertent rotation of the adjustment member
3270, thus maintaining the position of adjustment member 3230. In
the first configuration, the puncturing member 3240 can protrude a
known distance from the distal end 3274 of the hub, for example a
length of about 850 microns.
[0210] To enable actuation of the needle assembly 3200, the user
can remove the locking pin 3260 by pulling on the tab 3262 to
remove the locking pin 3260 from the housing 3210. The user then
disposes the distal end 3274 of the hub 3270 against the outer
surface of the conjunctiva of the eye, which results in the initial
length of the puncturing member 3240 being inserted into the eye.
Similarly stated, the user can apply a distal force on the system
3000 such that a distal end of the puncturing member 3240 pierces
the conjunctiva and is disposed in an ocular tissue layer below the
conjunctiva, for example, the sclera. The user can then determine,
using any suitable technique, if a distal end of the puncturing
member 3240 is within or otherwise near a target layer, for
example, the SCS of the eye. In some embodiments, the user can
determine that the distal end of the puncturing member 3240 is not
in a target layer of the eye, for example, the SCS. For example, in
some embodiments, a relative thickness of the ocular tissue layers
can be known to the user via prior visualization techniques. In
other embodiments the system 3000 can include an injection
assembly, for example, the injection assembly 111, 2100, or any
other injection assembly described herein, which can be activated
and thereby inform the user that the distal end of the puncturing
member 3240 is not in the target layer, as described before herein.
More particularly, because the injection assembly provides an
"injection assist" force within a predetermined range, when the end
of the puncturing member 3240 has not reached the SCS, actuation of
the injection assembly will not result in movement of the plug
within the medicament containment chamber. Thus, the user will
receive feedback that the puncturing member 3240 is not in the
target region (i.e., by not seeing any movement of the plug).
[0211] To move the needle assembly 3200 to a second configuration,
the user can apply a first torque to rotate or otherwise twist the
medicament containment chamber 3310 such that the adjustment member
3230 rotates relative to the housing 3210 about the longitudinal
axis A.sub.L. The first torque can urge the bearing 3220 to slide
out of the first indent 3235 such that the adjustment member 3230
is free to rotate by application of a second torque substantially
smaller than the first torque. The rotation of the adjustment
member 3230 urges the lead screw 3242 to also rotate in the bushing
3250. Since the bushing 3250 is fixedly disposed in the internal
volume 3213 of the housing 3210, the lead screw 3242 translates
linearly along the longitudinal axis A.sub.L. This urges the
puncturing member 3240 to also translate and advance deeper into
the ocular tissue layers. The adjustment member 3230 can be rotated
until the bearing 3220 approaches a second indent 3235 of the set
of the indents 3235. At least a portion of the bearing 3220 moves
into the second indent 3235 and thus prevents further rotation of
the adjustment member 3230 by the second torque. Each indent 3235
can correspond to predetermined length of the puncturing member
3240 protruding through the distal end 3274 of the hub 3270. For
example, the second indent 3235 can correspond to a protrusion
length of the puncturing member 3240 of about 950 microns. A third
indent 3235 can correspond to a protrusion length of the puncturing
member 3240 of about 1050 microns, and so on. Thus, in some
embodiments, each indent 3235 can correspond to a difference in
protrusion length of the puncturing member 3240 of about 100
microns. Since, in the second configuration, the bearing 3220 is
disposed in the second indent 3235, the adjustment member 3230 can
no longer be rotated by application of the second torque. The user
can now apply a third torque, greater than the second torque (e.g.,
substantially equal to the first torque) to further rotate the
adjustment member 3230, thereby increasing the protrusion length or
otherwise insertion depth of the puncturing member 3240. In this
manner, the needle assembly 3200 can serve as a digital length
adjustment mechanism to allow the user to adjust a protrusion
length or otherwise insertion depth of the puncturing member 3240
in discrete increments, reliably and repeatably. Furthermore, the
different torques required for rotation of the adjustment member
3240 at different positions of the bearing 3220 relative to the
indents 3235, also provide a tactile feedback to the user in
adjusting the protruding length or otherwise insertion depth of the
puncturing member 3240.
[0212] In some embodiments, a device includes an adjustment member
configured to move relative to a hub and/or a puncture member.
Moreover, although being described above as transitionable between
a first configuration and a second configuration, in some
embodiments, an adjustment member can be transitionable between any
number of configurations and/or positions. For example, FIGS. 34-36
are schematic illustrations of a portion of a delivery device
according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 34, a hub 4270 is
coupled to a puncture member 4240 and an adjustment member 4230.
The hub 4270 has a proximal end portion 4271 and a distal end
portion 4272. The proximal end portion 4271 can be physically and
fluidically coupled to a fluid reservoir such as, for example, the
housing 4230 of the delivery device 400, 100, 1000, 2000, 3000, or
any other delivery device or medical injector described herein).
Although not shown in FIGS. 34-36, the proximal end portion 4271 of
the hub 4270 can be coupled to a housing of a delivery device using
any suitable coupling method such as, for example, a press fit, a
snap fit, a threaded coupling, a Luer connection, a mechanical
fastener, an adhesive, and/or the like. In other embodiments, the
hub 4270 can be monolithically formed with a housing of a delivery
device. For example, the hub 4270 can be included in and/or form
distal end portion of a housing (e.g., the medical containment
chamber 1310, 2310, 3310, or any other medical containment chamber
described herein). Thus, an inner volume of the hub 4270 can be
placed in fluid communication with a drug formulation contained
within a fluid reservoir (e.g., a medicament container or the like
not shown in FIGS. 34-36).
[0213] As shown in FIG. 34, the distal end portion 4272 of the hub
4270 includes a substantially elongate portion that includes a set
of annular walls 4274. As described in further detail herein, the
annular walls 4274 have an outer surface 4275 that includes and/or
forms a set of threads 4277 that are configured to engage a portion
of the adjustment member 4230. The annular walls 4274 define a
lumen 4276 that extends through the distal end portion 4272 of the
hub 4270. The lumen 4276 is configured to receive a portion of the
puncture member 4240 to physically and fluidically couple the
puncture member 4240 to the hub 4270.
[0214] The puncture member 4240 (also referred to herein as
"microneedle") can be configured to puncture and/or penetrate a
portion of the eye to deliver a drug formulation to, for example,
the suprachoroidal space. In some embodiments, the puncture member
4240 can be a 32-gauge microneedle or a 34-gauge microneedle. The
microneedle 4240 has a proximal end portion 4242 and a distal end
portion 4244, and defines a lumen 4241. As shown in FIG. 34, the
proximal end portion 4242 is disposed within the lumen 4276 of the
hub 4270. For example, in some embodiments, the hub 4270 can be
over-molded about the proximal end portion 4242 of the puncture
member 4240. In other embodiments, the hub 4270 and the puncture
member 4240 can be monolithically formed (e.g., the puncture member
4240 can be a microcatheter or the like that is unitarily formed
with the hub 4270). Therefore, with the hub 4270 physically and
fluidically coupled to a housing or fluid reservoir (as described
above), the lumen 4241 of the puncture member 4240 can be placed in
fluid communication with a drug formulation contained therein.
[0215] As described above, the lumen 4241 of the puncture member
4240 extends through the proximal end portion 4242 and the distal
end portion 4244. In this manner, the lumen 4241 can be placed in
fluid communication with a volume substantially outside the
microneedle 4240. The distal end portion 4244 can be any suitable
shape, size, or configuration. For example, in some embodiments,
the distal end portion 4244 can form a bevel or the like. In some
embodiments, the distal end portion 4244 can be substantially
similar to or the same as those described in the '009 PCT
application incorporated by reference above. In this manner, the
distal end portion 4244 of the puncture member 4240 can be
configured to pierce an ocular tissue while minimizing deformation
of the tissue at the insertion site.
[0216] As shown, the microneedle 4240 extends from the distal end
portion 4272 of the hub 4270 in the distal direction. In this
manner, the microneedle 4240 can have a shaft length H between a
distal edge 4245 of the puncture member 4240 and a distal surface
of the hub 4270. The shaft length H can be any suitable length. For
example, in some embodiments, the shaft length H can substantially
correspond to at least a portion of the eye. In some embodiments,
the shaft length H can be such that when the microneedle 4240 is
inserted into the eye, the distal end portion 4244 of the
microneedle 4240 is disposed within the suprachoroidal space
without puncturing the choroid. By way of example, the shaft length
H of the microneedle 4240 can be about 1000 .mu.m or less, about
900 .mu.m or less, about 850 .mu.m or less, about 800 .mu.m or
less, about 750 .mu.m or less, about 700 .mu.m or less, about 650
.mu.m or less, or about 600 .mu.m or less. In some embodiments, the
shaft length H of the microneedle 4240 can be about 750 .mu.m. In
other embodiments, the shaft length of the microneedle 4240 can be
about 800 .mu.m, or about 850 .mu.m, or about 900 .mu.m, or about
950 .mu.m, or about 1 mm.
[0217] The adjustment member 4230 can be any suitable shape, size,
or configuration and can be movably disposed about a portion of the
hub 4270 and the puncture member 4240. The adjustment member 4230
has a proximal end portion 4231 and a distal end portion 4232 and
defines an opening 4236 therethrough. Moreover, the adjustment
member 4230 includes an inner surface 4235 includes and/or forms a
set of threads 4237 that can matingly engage the threads 4277 of
the hub 4270 (described above). In this manner, the distal end
portion 4272 of the hub 4270 can be movably disposed within a
portion of the opening 4236. For example, with the distal end
portion 4272 of the hub 4270 disposed within the portion of the
opening 4236, the adjustment member 4230 can be rotated relative to
the hub 4270 to advance the threads 4237 of the adjustment member
4230 along a length of the threads 4277 of the hub 4270. Thus, the
adjustment member 4230 can be moved between a first position
relative to the hub 4270 (e.g., a distal position, see e.g., FIGS.
34 and 35) and a second position relative to the hub 4270 (e.g., a
proximal position, see e.g., FIG. 36). Moreover, the adjustment
member 4230 can be moved to any number of different positions
relative to the hub 4270.
[0218] The arrangement of the hub 4270, the adjustment member 4230
and the puncture member 4240 is such that a portion of the puncture
member 4240 is disposed within the opening 4236 defined by the
adjustment member 4230 while the distal end portion 4244 of the
puncture member 4240 extends beyond a distal surface 4234 of the
adjustment member 4230. For example, as shown in FIG. 34, the
distal end portion 4244 of the puncture member 4240 can extend a
distance D.sub.1 (also referred to as an effective length of the
puncture member 310) from the distal surface 4234 of the adjustment
member 4230. Similarly stated, the distal edge 4245 of the puncture
member 4240 is spaced apart from the distal surface of the
adjustment member 4230 by the distance D.sub.1. Thus, when the
adjustment member 4230 is moved a given distance relative to the
hub 4270, the effective length of the puncture member 4240 (i.e.,
the distance D.sub.1) is changed by a corresponding distance. By
way of example, while the adjustment member 4230 is in the first
position relative to the hub 4270 (e.g., the distal position), the
distance D.sub.1 can be, for example, 350 .mu.m and when the
adjustment member 4230 is moved to the second position relative to
the hub 4270 (e.g., the proximal position), the distance D.sub.1
can be increased to, for example, 650 .mu.m. In other embodiments,
the distance D.sub.1 can be increased to, for example, 500 .mu.m,
550 .mu.m, 600 .mu.m, 700 .mu.m, 750 .mu.m, 800 .mu.m, 850 .mu.m,
900 .mu.m, 950 .mu.m, or any suitable fraction thereof.
[0219] As shown in FIGS. 35 and 36, in use, a user (e.g., a doctor,
technician, nurse, physician, ophthalmologist, etc.) can manipulate
a delivery device (not shown) to insert the puncture member 4240
into, for example, a portion of the eye 10. In this manner, the
distal end portion 4244 of the puncture member 4240 can be advanced
through a portion of the sclera 20 until the distal surface 4234 of
the adjustment member 4230 is placed in contact with an outer
surface of the sclera 20. With the adjustment member 4230 in the
first configuration, the distance D.sub.1 (e.g., the first
distance) between the distal surface 4234 of the adjustment member
4230 and the distal edge 4245 of the puncture member 4240 can
substantially depend on and/or be associated with the thickness of
the sclera 20. For example, in some embodiments, when the
adjustment member 4230 is in the first configuration, the distance
D.sub.1 (FIG. 34) between the adjustment member 4230 and the distal
edge 4245 can be about 450 .mu.m. In other embodiments, the
distance D.sub.1 when the adjustment member 4230 is in the first
configuration can be about 350 .mu.m, 400 .mu.m, 500 .mu.m, 550
.mu.m, 600 .mu.m, 650 .mu.m, 700 .mu.m, 750 .mu.m, or any fraction
therebetween. In still other embodiments, the distance D.sub.1 when
the adjustment member 4230 is in the first configuration can be
less than 350 .mu.m. In this manner, the distal edge 4245 of the
puncture member 4240 can be disposed within the sclera 20, as shown
in FIG. 35. While shown in FIG. 35 as being disposed entirely in
the sclera 20, in other embodiments, at least a portion of the
distal edge 4245 can be disposed within the suprachoroidal space
36.
[0220] The adjustment member 4230 can be moved from its first
position relative to the hub 4270 to its second position relative
to the hub 4270 to increase the distance D.sub.1 (FIG. 34) between
the adjustment member 4230 and the distal edge 4245 of the puncture
member 4240 from the first distance (FIG. 35) to a second distance,
as shown in FIG. 36. For example, in some embodiments, a user can
manipulate a grip portion (e.g., a textured finish and/or a set of
handles, ribs, detents, grooves, etc.) of the adjustment member
4230 to rotate the adjustment member 4230 relative to the hub 4270,
as indicated by the arrow AA in FIG. 36. In this manner, the
threads 4237 of the adjustment member 4230 are advanced along a
length of the threads 4277 of the hub 4270. Thus, the hub 4270 is
moved in a distal direction relative to the adjustment member 4230
such that the adjustment member 4230 is placed its second position
relative to the hub 4270, as indicated by the arrow BB in FIG. 36.
The movement of the adjustment member 4230 can be performed at any
suitable time, i.e., either before or while the puncture member
4240 is disposed within the sclera 20.
[0221] Expanding further, by rotating the adjustment member 4230
relative to the hub 4270 (as indicated by the arrow AA), the
adjustment member 4230 is placed in its second position relative to
the hub 4270. Thus, with the adjustment member 4230 in the second
position, the distance D.sub.1 (FIG. 34) is increased between the
distal surface 4234 of the adjustment member 4230 and the distal
edge 4245 of the puncture member 4240 (e.g., to the second
distance). In some embodiments, the distance D.sub.1 can be
increased to about 600 .mu.m. In other embodiments, the distance
D.sub.1 can be increased to about 650 .mu.m, 700 .mu.m, 750 .mu.m,
800 .mu.m, 850 .mu.m, 900 .mu.m, 950 .mu.m, 1000 .mu.m, or any
fraction therebetween. In still other embodiments, the distance
D.sub.1 can be increased to less that 600 .mu.m (e.g., such as, for
example, in use on pediatric eyes).
[0222] As shown in FIG. 36, the distal movement of the hub 4270 can
allow the distal end portion 4244 of the puncture member 4240
(e.g., in a distal direction) to be moved distally relative to the
sclera 20 to place the lumen 4241 of the puncture member 4240 in
fluid communication with the suprachoroidal space 36. With the
lumen 4241 of the puncture member 4240 in fluid communication with
the suprachoroidal space 36, a drug formulation (contained within a
fluid reservoir that is in fluid communication with the lumen 4241,
for example, as described above with reference to the medical
injector 400 of FIGS. 19-20) can be expelled through the lumen 4241
of the puncture member 4240 and into the suprachoroidal space 36 of
the eye 10. In this manner, the drug formulation can flow within
the suprachoroidal space 36 to be delivered to, for example, the
posterior region of the eye (e.g., the posterior region 14 of the
eye 10 in FIG. 1). Moreover, with the adjustment member 4230 in the
second configuration, the distance between the distal surface 4234
of the adjustment member 4230 and the distal edge 4245 of the
puncture member 4240 (e.g., the distance D.sub.1 in FIG. 34) can be
less than a combined thickness of the sclera 20 and the
suprachoroidal space 36 such that the distal end portion 4244 of
the puncture member 4240 does not pierce the choroid 28.
[0223] In some embodiments, the relative position of the distal
edge 4245 of the puncture member 4240 within the eye can be
localized (e.g., determined, realized, etc.) via any suitable
method. For example, in some instances, the amount of force exerted
to advance the distal edge 4245 of the puncture member 4240 through
the sclera 20 can be greater than an amount of force exerted to
advance the distal edge 4245 through the suprachoroidal space 36.
Thus, reduction in the amount of force that is exerted to advance
the distal end portion 4244 of the puncture member 4240 can
indicate to a user the relative position of the distal edge 4245 of
the puncture member 4240 in the eye. In some instances, imagining
techniques (e.g., fluoroscopy, X-ray Computed Tomography (CT)
scans, or the like) can be used to provide an indication of the
relative position of the distal edge 4245 with respect to the
anatomy of the target tissue.
[0224] Although not shown in FIGS. 34-36, in some embodiments, the
hub 4270 and/or the adjustment member 4230 can provide an indicator
associated with the distance D.sub.1 between the adjustment member
4230 and the distal edge 4245 of the puncture member 4240. In some
embodiments, the indicator can be a visual indicator such as a
measuring scale or the like. For example, in some embodiments, the
puncture member 4240 can include indicia (e.g., lines, markings,
tic marks, etc.) that represents a gradation of a length of the
puncture member 4240 associated with the distance D.sub.1 between
the distal surface 4234 of the adjustment member 4230 and the
distal edge 4245 of the puncture member 4240. In some embodiments,
the markings can represent distances of 100 microns or less. In
this manner, a user can view the indicia to determine, for example,
a change in the distance D.sub.1 that would otherwise be
indeterminate. In other embodiments, the adjustment member 4230
and/or the hub 4270 can produce a audible or haptic indicator such
as, for example, a "clicking" sound or the like.
[0225] Although the adjustment member 4230 is described above with
reference to FIGS. 34-36 as rotating about the hub 4270 to change
the distance (e.g., the distance D.sub.1 in FIG. 34) between the
distal surface 4234 of the adjustment member 4230 and the distal
edge 4245 of the puncture member 4240, in other embodiments, an
adjustment member can be transitioned relative to a hub in any
suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, an outer surface
of a hub can include a set of protrusions that can engage a set of
detents defined by an inner surface of an adjustment member (or
vice versa). In such embodiments, the adjustment member can be
moved linearly relative to the hub such that the detents of the
adjustment member sequentially engage the protrusions of the
hub.
[0226] FIG. 37 is a schematic illustration of a portion of a
delivery device according to an embodiment. As shown, a hub 5270 is
coupled to a puncture member 5240 and an adjustment member 5230.
The hub 5270 has a proximal end portion 5271 and a distal end
portion 5272. The proximal end portion 5271 can be physically and
fluidically coupled to a fluid reservoir such as, for example, the
medicament container 430 of the medical injector 400 described
above with reference to FIGS. 19-20, or any other medicament
container described herein. Although not shown in FIG. 37, the
proximal end portion 5271 of the hub 5270 can be coupled to a
housing (e.g., a medicament container) of a delivery device using
any suitable coupling method such as, for example, a press fit, a
snap fit, a threaded coupling, a Luer connection, a mechanical
fastener, an adhesive, and/or the like. In other embodiments, the
hub 5270 can be monolithically formed with a housing of a delivery
device. For example, the hub 5270 can be included in and/or form a
distal end portion of a housing (e.g., distal end portion 434 of
the medicament container 430). Thus, an inner volume of the hub
5270 can be placed in fluid communication with a drug formulation
contained within a fluid reservoir (e.g., a medicament container),
as described above with reference to the hub 4270 of FIGS. 34-36.
As shown in FIG. 37, the distal end portion 5272 of the hub 5270
can be a substantially elongate portion that includes and/or is
formed from a set of annular walls 5274. As described in further
detail herein, the annular walls 5274 define a lumen 5276 that
extends through the distal end portion 5272 of the hub 5270. The
lumen 5276 is configured to receive a portion of the puncture
member 5240 to physically and fluidically couple the puncture
member 5240 to the hub 5270.
[0227] The puncture member 5240 (also referred to herein as
"microneedle") can be configured to puncture and/or penetrate a
portion of the eye to deliver a drug formulation to, for example,
the suprachoroidal space. The microneedle 5240 has a proximal end
portion 5242 and a distal end portion 5244, and defines a lumen
5241. As shown in FIG. 37, the proximal end portion 5242 is
disposed within the lumen 5276 of the hub 5270. For example, in
some embodiments, the hub 5270 can be over-molded about the
proximal end portion 5242 of the puncture member 5240. In other
embodiments, the hub 5270 and the puncture member 5240 can be
monolithically formed (e.g., the puncture member 5240 can be a
microcatheter or the like that is unitarily formed with the hub
5270). Therefore, with the hub 5270 physically and fluidically
coupled to a housing or fluid reservoir (as described above), the
lumen 5241 of the puncture member 5240 can be placed in fluid
communication with a drug formulation contained therein.
[0228] As shown, the microneedle 5240 extends from the distal end
portion 5272 of the hub 5270 in the distal direction. In this
manner, the microneedle 5240 can have a shaft length H between a
distal edge 5245 of the puncture member 5240 and a distal surface
of the hub 5270. In this manner, the puncture member 5240 can be
substantially similar to or the same as the puncture member 4240
described above with reference to FIGS. 34-46. Thus, portions of
the puncture member 5240 are not described in further detail
herein.
[0229] The adjustment member 5230 can be any suitable shape, size,
or configuration and is transitionable between a first
configuration and a second configuration. The adjustment member
5230 is coupled to the distal end portion 5272 of the hub 5270. For
example, in some embodiments, the adjustment member 5230 can be
coupled to the hub 5270 via a press fit, a snap fit, a threaded
coupling, mechanical fastener, an adhesive, and/or the like. In
other embodiments, the adjustment member 5230 can be disposed about
a portion of the puncture member 5240 such that a portion of the
adjustment member 5230 is in contact with the distal end portion
5272 of the hub 5270 (e.g., adjacent to yet not coupled to the hub
5270). In this manner, the hub 5270 and the puncture member 5240
can be reusable (after sterilization) and can be temporarily
coupled to a disposable adjustment member 5230. In some
embodiments, the adjustment member 5230 and the hub 5270 can be
monolithically formed. In some embodiments, the adjustment member
5230 can be over-molded about the distal end portion 5272 of the
hub 5270. For example, in some embodiments, the hub 5270 can be
formed from a relatively rigid material such as a metal or hard
plastic and can act as a substrate about which the adjustment
member 5230 is molded (e.g., from a relatively soft material such
as an elastomeric material, thermoplastic, rubber, silicone, or the
like). As shown in FIG. 37, when the adjustment member 5230 is in
the first configuration, the adjustment member 5230 has a thickness
T.sub.1. In some embodiments, the thickness T.sub.1 of the
adjustment member 460 can be, for example, about 25 .mu.m, 50
.mu.m, 100 .mu.m, 400 .mu.m, or any suitable fraction therebetween.
In other embodiments, the adjustment member 5230 can have a
thickness T.sub.1 that is greater than 400 .mu.m. In other
embodiments, the overall thickness T.sub.1 of the adjustment member
5230 can be less than about 25 .mu.m.
[0230] The adjustment member 5230 is removably disposed about a
portion of the puncture member 5240. More specifically, the
puncture member 5240 can extend in the distal direction from the
hub 5270 such that a portion of the puncture member 5240 extends
through the adjustment member 5230. For example, as shown in FIG.
37, the distal end portion 5244 of the puncture member 5240 can
extend a distance (i.e., D.sub.2 or D3) from a distal surface 5234
of the adjustment member 5230. Similarly stated, the distal edge
5245 of the puncture member 5240 is spaced apart from the distal
surface 5234 of the adjustment member 5230 by the distance D.sub.2
(also referred to as an effective length of the puncture member
5240). As described above, the adjustment member 5240 can be
transitioned between a first configuration and a second
configuration. More specifically, the first configuration can be
associated with the first thickness T.sub.1 of the adjustment
member 5230 and the second configuration can be associated with a
second thickness T.sub.2. Thus, when the adjustment member 5230 is
moved from the first configuration to the second configuration
(e.g., from the first thickness T.sub.1 to the second thickness
T.sub.2), the effective length of the puncture member 5240 between
the distal edge 5245 of the puncture member 5240 and the distal
surface 5234 of the adjustment member 5230 is increased by a
corresponding distance (e.g., increased from the first distance
D.sub.1 to a second distance D.sub.3). Similarly stated, the
nominal change in the thickness from the first thickness T.sub.1 to
the thickness T.sub.2 substantially corresponds with (or is the
same as) the nominal change in distance from the first distance
D.sub.2 to the second distance D.sub.3. By way of example, while
the adjustment member 5230 is in the first configuration, the first
thickness T.sub.1 can be, for example, 250 .mu.m and the first
distance D.sub.2 can be, for example, about 450 .mu.m. When the
adjustment member 5230 is moved to the second configuration, the
second thickness T.sub.2 of the adjustment member 5230 can be, for
example, 100 .mu.m and the second distance D.sub.3 can be, for
example, about 600 .mu.m.
[0231] In use, a user (e.g., a doctor, technician, nurse,
physician, ophthalmologist, etc.) can manipulate a delivery device
(not shown) to insert the puncture member 5240 into, for example, a
portion of the eye (e.g., the eye 10 shown in FIG. 1). In this
manner, the distal end portion 5244 of the puncture member 5240 can
be advanced through a portion of the sclera until the distal
surface 5234 of the adjustment member 5230 is placed in contact
with an outer surface of the sclera. With the adjustment member
5230 in the first configuration, the distance D.sub.2 (e.g., the
first distance) between the distal surface 5234 of the adjustment
member 5230 and the distal edge 5245 of the puncture member 5240
can substantially depend on and/or can be associated with the
thickness of the sclera. For example, in some embodiments, when the
adjustment member 5230 is in the first configuration, the distance
D.sub.2 between the distal surface 5234 of the adjustment member
5230 and the distal edge 5245 can be about 550 .mu.m. In other
embodiments, the distance D.sub.2 when the adjustment member 5230
is in the first configuration can be about 350 .mu.m, 400 .mu.m,
450 .mu.m, 500 .mu.m, 600 .mu.m, 650 .mu.m, 700 .mu.m, 750 .mu.m,
800 .mu.m, 850 .mu.m, 900 .mu.m, 950 .mu.m, 1000 .mu.m, or any
fraction therebetween. In still other embodiments, the distance
D.sub.2 when the adjustment member 5230 is in the first
configuration can be less than about 350 .mu.m. In this manner, a
distal edge 5245 of the puncture member 5240 can be disposed within
the sclera (e.g., the sclera 20 of the eye 10 in FIG. 1).
[0232] The adjustment member 5230 can be moved from its first
configuration to its second configuration to increase the distance
between the distal surface 5234 of the adjustment member 5230 and
the distal edge 5245 of the puncture member 5240 from the first
distance D.sub.2 to the second distance D.sub.3. For example, in
some instances, a user can exert a force (either directly or
indirectly) on the hub 5270 to advance the puncture member 5240
relative to the eye. With the distal surface 5234 of the adjustment
member 5230 in contact with an outer surface of the sclera, the
force exerted on the hub 5270 can be operable in compressing the
adjustment member 5230 from the first thickness T.sub.1 to the
second thickness T.sub.2. Thus, the adjustment member 5230 is
placed in the second configuration and the distance between the
distal surface 5234 of the adjustment member 5230 is increased from
the first distance D.sub.2 to the second distance D.sub.3. For
example, in some instances, the second distance D.sub.3 can be
about 600 .mu.m. In other embodiments, the second distance D.sub.3
can be about 650 .mu.m, 700 .mu.m, 750 .mu.m, 800 .mu.m, 850 .mu.m,
900 .mu.m, 950 .mu.m, 1000 .mu.m, or any fraction therebetween. In
still other embodiments, the second distance D.sub.3 can be
increased to less than about 600 .mu.m (e.g., such as, for example,
in use on pediatric eyes).
[0233] As described above with reference to FIG. 36, the movement
of the adjustment member 5230 to the second configuration can be
such that further movement of the puncture member 5240 (e.g., in a
distal direction) relative to the sclera places the lumen 5241 of
the puncture member 5240 in fluid communication with the
suprachoroidal space (e.g., the suprachoroidal space 36 of the eye
10 in FIG. 1). Similarly stated, the increase in distance from the
first distance D.sub.2 to the second distance D.sub.3 can be
sufficiently large to extend the distal edge 5245 of the puncture
member 5240 through the sclera such that the lumen 5241 is placed
in fluid communication with the suprachoroidal space. With the
lumen 5241 of the puncture member 5240 in fluid communication with
the suprachoroidal space, a drug formulation (contained within a
fluid reservoir as described above with reference to FIG. 36) can
be expelled through the lumen 5241 of the puncture member 5240 and
into the suprachoroidal space of the eye. In this manner, the drug
formulation can flow within the suprachoroidal space to be
delivered to, for example, the posterior region of the eye (e.g.,
the posterior region 14 of the eye 10 in FIG. 1). Moreover, with
the adjustment member 5230 in the second configuration, the
distance between the distal surface 5234 of the adjustment member
5230 and the distal edge 5245 of the puncture member 5230 (e.g.,
the second distance D.sub.3) can be less than a combined thickness
of the sclera and the suprachoroidal space such that the distal end
portion 5244 of the puncture member 5240 does not pierce the
choroid.
[0234] In addition to adjusting and/or controlling the effective
length of the puncture member 5240 to enhance the likelihood that
the lumen 5241 is placed in fluid communication with the desired
region of the target tissue (e.g., the suprachoroidal space of the
eye), in some embodiments, the adjustment member 5230 (and any of
the adjustment members shown and described herein) can form a
substantially fluid-tight seal and/or a substantially liquid-tight
seal with the outer surface of the target tissue (e.g., the
conjunctiva of the eye). In this manner, leakage of the injected
medicament along the needle track during the injection event can be
reduced and/or eliminated. Expanding further, in some embodiments,
the anatomy of the target tissue and/or the arrangement of the
delivery device can be such that, in use, a portion of the opening
of the lumen 5241 may be placed in fluid communication with the
suprachoroidal space 36 of the eye, while another portion of the
opening of the lumen 5241 may be positioned within the sclera 20.
Thus, when the drug formulation is conveyed into the eye via the
puncture member 5240, a portion of the drug formulation may be
prone to migrating away from the desired region (e.g., the
suprachoroidal space 36) and out of the eye via the needle track.
By forming a substantially fluid-tight seal and/or a substantially
liquid-tight seal, the adjustment member 5230 can produce an area
of high resistance to flow, thus minimizing and/or eliminating the
flow migration and/or leakage.
[0235] Although the adjustment member 5230 is described above as
being constructed from a relatively soft material, which can be
well suited to forming a fluid-tight seal, in some embodiments, the
adjustment member 5230 can be constructed from multiple materials.
For example, in some embodiments, the distal end surface 5234 of
the adjustment member 5230 can be constructed from and/or can
include a layer or portion constructed from a material formulated
to form a substantially fluid-tight seal with the outer surface of
the target tissue (e.g., the conjunctiva).
[0236] Although not shown in FIG. 37, in some embodiments, the
adjustment member 5230 and/or the puncture member 5240 can include
a locking feature that can be configured to at least temporarily
retain the adjustment member 5230 in the second configuration. For
example, in some embodiments, the puncture member 5240 and/or hub
5270 can include one or more detents, grooves, protrusions, etc.
that can matingly engage a portion of the adjustment member 5230 to
retain the adjustment member 5230 in the second configuration. More
specifically, in some embodiments, the adjustment member 5230 can
include a set of protrusions (not shown) that extend from the
adjustment member toward the puncture member 5240. In such
embodiments, the adjustment member 5230 can be moved to the second
configuration to decrease the thickness of the adjustment member
(as described above). In this manner, the protrusions can move
along a surface of the puncture member 5240 while the adjustment
member 5230 is being moved to the second configuration. Once the
adjustment member 5230 is in the second configuration, the
protrusions can matingly engage a set of detents that can at least
temporarily retain the protrusions therein. Thus, the adjustment
member 5230 can be at least temporarily locked in the second
configuration. In other embodiments, the adjustment member 5230 and
the puncture member 5240 do not include a locking feature and a
user can exert a substantially constant force to retain the
adjustment member 5230 in the second configuration.
[0237] In some embodiments, the puncture member 5240 and/or the
adjustment member 5230 can include a visual indicator that is
associated with the distance between the distal surface 5234 of the
adjustment member 5230 and the distal edge 5245 of the puncture
member 5240. For example, in some embodiments, the puncture member
5240 can include a measurement indicator. In such embodiments, a
user determine the distance between the distal surface 5234 of the
adjustment member 5230 and the distal edge 5245 of the puncture
member 5240 by visually inspecting the measurement indicator.
[0238] FIG. 38 is a schematic illustration of a portion of a
delivery device according to an embodiment. As shown, a hub 6270 is
coupled to a puncture member 6240 and an adjustment member 6230.
The hub 6270 has a proximal end portion 6271 and a distal end
portion 6272. The proximal end portion 6271 can be physically and
fluidically coupled to a fluid reservoir such as, for example, the
medicament container 430 of the medical injector 400 described
above with reference to FIGS. 19-20. Although not shown in FIG. 38,
the proximal end portion 6271 of the hub 6270 can be coupled to a
housing (e.g., a medicament container) of a delivery device using
any suitable coupling method such as, for example, a press fit, a
snap fit, a threaded coupling, a Luer connection, a mechanical
fastener, an adhesive, and/or the like. In other embodiments, the
hub 6270 can be monolithically formed with a housing of a delivery
device. For example, the hub 6270 can be included in and/or form a
distal end portion of a housing (e.g., the distal end portion 343
of the housing 430). Thus, an inner volume of the hub 6270 can be
placed in fluid communication with a drug formulation contained
within a fluid reservoir (e.g., a housing), as described above with
reference to the hub 6270 of FIGS. 34-36. As shown in FIG. 38, the
distal end portion 6272 of the hub 6270 can be a substantially
elongate portion that includes and/or is formed from a set of
annular walls 6274. The annular walls 6274 define a lumen 6276 that
extends through the distal end portion 6272 of the hub 6270. The
lumen 6276 is configured to receive a portion of the puncture
member 6270 to physically and fluidically couple the puncture
member 6270 to the hub 6270.
[0239] The puncture member 6240 (also referred to herein as
"microneedle") can be configured to puncture and/or penetrate a
portion of the eye to deliver a drug formulation to, for example,
the suprachoroidal space. The microneedle 6240 has a proximal end
portion 6242 and a distal end portion 6244, and defines a lumen
6241. As described above, the proximal end portion 6242 is disposed
within the lumen 6276 of the hub 6270. For example, in some
embodiments, the hub 6270 can be over-molded about the proximal end
portion 6242 of the puncture member 6240. In other embodiments, the
hub 6270 and the puncture member 6240 can be monolithically formed
(e.g., the puncture member 6240 can be a microcatheter or the like
that is unitarily formed with the hub 6270). Therefore, when the
hub 6270 is physically and fluidically coupled to a housing or
fluid reservoir (as described above), the lumen 6241 of the
puncture member 6240 can be placed in fluid communication with a
drug formulation contained therein.
[0240] As shown, the microneedle 6240 extends from the distal end
portion 6272 of the hub 6270 in the distal direction. The
microneedle 6240 has a shaft length H between a distal edge 6245 of
the puncture member 6240 and a distal surface of the hub 6270. In
this manner, the puncture member 6240 can be substantially similar
to or the same as the puncture member 6240 described above with
reference to FIGS. 34-36. Thus, portions of the puncture member
6240 are not described in further detail herein.
[0241] The adjustment member 6230 can be any suitable shape, size,
or configuration and can be disposed about a portion of the hub
6270 and/or the puncture member 6240. For example, although some of
the adjustment members are described herein as being monolithic, in
other embodiments, such as here, an adjustment member can be
constructed from multiple different components that are joined
together. In particular, the adjustment member 6230 includes a base
6238 and a set of removable layers 6239. The base 6238 is coupled
to the distal end portion 6272 of the hub 6270. For example, in
some embodiments, the base 6238 can be removably coupled to the hub
6270 (e.g., via a press fit, a snap fit, a threaded coupling,
mechanical fastener, and/or the like). In this manner, the hub 6270
can be reusable (after sterilization) and can be temporarily
coupled to a disposable adjustment member 6230. In other
embodiments, the base 6238 can be fixedly coupled to the hub 6270
(e.g., via an adhesive, ultrasonic welding, and/or the like).
[0242] The set of layers 6239 is comprised of relatively thin
strips that are sequentially stacked on one another. More
specifically, a first layer 6239 is removably coupled to the base
6238 and each subsequent layer 6239 is stacked on top of the
preceding layer. In some embodiments, the layers 6239 can be
relatively thin strips of a self-adhering flexible material such as
sheets of polyethylene, polyvinylidene chloride, polypropylene,
polyacrylate, or the like. In other embodiments, the layers 6239
can be at least temporarily retained to each other and/or to the
hub via an adhesive. In such embodiments, the layers 6239 can be
retained by one or more adhesive material having varying adhesive
strengths. For example, in some embodiments, the adhesive strength
between adjacent layers 6239 can increase from a first adhesive
strength between the distal-most layer and its adjacent layer and a
second adhesive strength between the proximal-most layer and its
adjacent layer. In some embodiments, each layer can be adhered to
an adjacent layer by a unique adhesive. In other embodiments, each
layer can be adhered to an adjacent layer by the same adhesive
with, for example, varying adhesive strengths. In yet other
embodiments, the layers can be retained via a combination of an
adhesive and one or more self-adhesive material. In this manner,
one or more layers 6239 can be removed from the set of layers 6239
to transition the adjustment member 6230 from the first
configuration to the second configuration. Moreover, by varying the
properties of the adhesive, the user can more easily remove the
desired layer(s) without inadvertently removing additional
layers.
[0243] As shown in FIG. 38, each layer 6239 has a thickness
T.sub.L. In some embodiments, the thickness T.sub.L of each layer
6239 can be, for example, about 5 .mu.m, 10 .mu.m, 20 .mu.m, 30
.mu.m, 40 .mu.m, 50 .mu.m, 100 .mu.m, or any suitable fraction
therebetween. In other embodiments, a layer 6239 can have a
thickness T.sub.L that is greater than 100 .mu.m. Although each
layer 6239 is shown and described as having substantially the same
thickness T.sub.L, in other embodiments, the layers 6239 can have
varying thickness. As shown in FIG. 38, the set of layers 6239 can
have an overall thickness T.sub.A that is the sum of the
thicknesses T.sub.L of each stacked layer 6239. For example, in
some embodiments, the overall thickness T.sub.A of the set of
layers 6239 can be about 50 .mu.m, 100 .mu.m, 150 .mu.m, 200 .mu.m,
250 .mu.m, 300 .mu.m, 400 .mu.m, 500 .mu.m, 1000 .mu.m, or any
suitable fraction therebetween. In other embodiments, the overall
thickness T.sub.A of the set of layers 6239 can be less than about
50 .mu.m. In still other embodiments, the overall thickness T.sub.A
of the set of layers 6239 can be greater than about 1000 .mu.m.
Although three removable layers 6239 are shown in FIG. 38, in other
embodiments, an adjustment member can include any suitable number
of removable layers (e.g., two layers, four layers, five layers,
six layers, seven layers, eight layers, nine layers ten layers, or
more).
[0244] As described above, the adjustment member 6230 is disposed
about a portion of the hub 6270 and the puncture member 6270. More
specifically, the puncture member 6240 can extend in the distal
direction from the hub 6240 such that a portion of the puncture
member 6240 extends through the adjustment member 6230 (e.g.,
through the base 6238 and the set of layers 6239). For example, as
shown in FIG. 38, the distal end portion 6244 of the puncture
member 6240 can extend a distance D.sub.4 from the outermost layer
6239 of the adjustment member 6230 (also referred to as an
effective length of the puncture member 6240). Similarly stated,
the distal edge 6245 of the puncture member 6240 is spaced apart
from a distal surface of the adjustment member 6230 (e.g., the
outermost layer 6239) by the distance D.sub.4. Thus, when a layer
6239 is removed from the set of layers 6239 of the adjustment
member 6230, the effective length of the puncture member 6240
(e.g., the distance D.sub.4) is increased by a distance that
substantially corresponds to the thickness T.sub.L of the layer
6239 that was removed. By way of example, while the adjustment
member 6230 is in the first configuration (e.g., where all the
layers included in the set of layers 6239 are stacked), the
distance D.sub.4 can be, for example, about 550 .mu.m and when the
adjustment member 6230 is moved to the second configuration (e.g.,
when one or more layers are removed from the set of layers 6239),
the distance D.sub.4 can be increased to, for example, about 650
.mu.m. In other embodiments, the effective length of the puncture
member 6240 can be increased to 600 .mu.m, 700 .mu.m, 750 .mu.m,
800 .mu.m, 850 .mu.m, 900 .mu.m, 950 .mu.m, 1000 .mu.m, or any
suitable fraction therebetween.
[0245] In use, a user (e.g., a doctor, technician, nurse,
physician, ophthalmologist, etc.) can manipulate a delivery device
(not shown) to insert the puncture member 6240 into, for example, a
portion of the eye (e.g., the eye 10 shown in FIG. 1). In this
manner, the distal end portion 6244 of the puncture member 6240 can
be advanced through a portion of the sclera until an outermost
layer of the set of layers 6239 included in the adjustment member
6230 is placed in contact with an outer surface of the sclera. With
the adjustment member 6230 in the first configuration, the distance
D.sub.4 (e.g., a first distance) between the outermost layer 6239
of the adjustment member 6230 and the distal edge 6245 of the
puncture member 6240 can substantially depend on and/or can be
associated with the thickness of the sclera. For example, in some
embodiments, when the adjustment member 6230 is in the first
configuration, the distance D.sub.4 between the outermost layer
6239 of the adjustment member 6230 and the distal edge 6245 can be
about 450 .mu.m. In other embodiments, the distance D.sub.4 when
the adjustment member 6230 is in the first configuration can be
about 350 .mu.m, 400 .mu.m, 500 .mu.m, 550 .mu.m, 600 .mu.m, 650
.mu.m, 700 .mu.m, 750 .mu.m, or any fraction therebetween. In still
other embodiments, the distance D.sub.4 when the adjustment member
6230 is in the first configuration can be less than about 350
.mu.m. In yet other embodiments, the distance D.sub.4 when the
adjustment member 6230 is in the first configuration can be greater
than 750 .mu.m. In this manner, a distal edge 6245 of the puncture
member 6240 can be disposed within the sclera (e.g., the sclera 20
of the eye 10 in FIG. 1).
[0246] The adjustment member 6230 can be moved from its first
configuration to its second configuration to increase the distance
D.sub.4 between the outermost layer 6239 of the adjustment member
6230 and the distal edge 6245 of the puncture member 6240 from the
first distance to a second distance. For example, in some
embodiments, a user can manipulate an engagement portion 6280 of
one or more layers to remove (e.g., peel, tear, shear, break away,
etc.) the one or more layers from the stack of layers 6239 (i.e.,
the set of layers). In this manner, the overall thickness T.sub.A
of the set of layers 6239 is reduced by the combined thicknesses
T.sub.L of each layer that is removed. Expanding further, by
removing the one or more layers, the overall thickness T.sub.A of
the set of layers 6239 is reduced, thereby placing the adjustment
member in the second configuration. Thus, with the adjustment
member 6230 in the second configuration, the distance D.sub.4 is
increased between the current outermost layer (e.g., the outermost
layer after removing the one or more layers) and the distal edge
6245 of the puncture member 6240 (e.g., to a second distance). In
some embodiments, the distance D.sub.4 can be increased to about
600 .mu.m. In other embodiments, the distance D.sub.4 can be
increased to about 650 .mu.m, 700 .mu.m, 750 .mu.m, 800 .mu.m, 850
.mu.m, 900 .mu.m, 950 .mu.m, 1000 .mu.m, or any fraction
therebetween. In still other embodiments, the distance D.sub.4 can
be increased to less than about 600 .mu.m (e.g., such as, for
example, in use on pediatric eyes). By way of example, in some
embodiments, the adjustment member 6230 can include a set of 10
layers 6239 with each layer having a thickness of about 50 .mu.m.
In such embodiments, the distance D.sub.4 between the outermost
layer 6239 and the distal edge 6245 can be, for example, about 450
.mu.m. In some instances, three layers can be removed from the set
of 10 layers 6239 to increase the distance D.sub.4 to about 600
.mu.m.
[0247] In addition to adjusting and/or controlling the effective
length of the puncture member 6240 (e.g., by manipulating a layer
from the stack of layers 6239) to enhance the likelihood that the
lumen 6241 is placed in fluid communication with the desired region
of the target tissue (e.g., the suprachoroidal space of the eye),
in some embodiments, the adjustment member 6230 (and any of the
adjustment members shown and described herein) can form a
substantially fluid-tight seal and/or a substantially liquid-tight
seal with the outer surface of the target tissue (e.g., the
conjunctiva of the eye). In this manner, leakage of the injected
medicament along the needle track during the injection event can be
reduced and/or eliminated. Expanding further, in some embodiments,
the anatomy of the target tissue and/or the arrangement of the
delivery device can be such that, in use, a portion of the opening
of the lumen 6241 may be placed in fluid communication with the
suprachoroidal space 36 of the eye, while another portion of the
opening of the lumen 6241 may be positioned within the sclera 20.
Thus, when the drug formulation is conveyed into the eye via the
puncture member 6240, a portion of the drug formulation may be
prone to migrating away from the desired region (e.g., the
suprachoroidal space 36) and out of the eye via the needle track.
By forming a substantially fluid-tight seal and/or a substantially
liquid-tight seal, the adjustment member 6230 can produce an area
of high resistance to flow, thus minimizing and/or eliminating the
flow migration and/or leakage.
[0248] Although the adjustment member 6230 is described above as
being constructed from a relatively soft material, which can be
well suited to forming a fluid-tight seal, in some embodiments, the
adjustment member 6230 can be constructed from multiple materials.
For example, in some embodiments, the adjustment member 6230 can
include a set of layers 6239 with a first layer constructed from
and/or including a portion constructed from a first material, and a
second layer constructed from and/or including a portion
constructed from a second material different from the first
material. Further to this example, at least a portion of the first
material and/or at least a portion of the second material can be
constructed from and/or can include a layer or portion constructed
from a material formulated to form a substantially fluid-tight seal
with the outer surface of the target tissue (e.g., the
conjunctiva).
[0249] Although not shown in FIG. 38, in some embodiments, the
layers 6239 can provide and/or include an indicator associated with
the distance D.sub.4 between the outermost layer 6269 and the
distal edge 6245 of the puncture member 6230. In some embodiments,
the indicator can be indicia such as, for example, a value
associated with the distance D.sub.4 (e.g., 500 .mu.m). In other
embodiments, the layers 6239 can be color coded with each layer
having a different color and each color being associated with an
effective length of the puncture member 6240.
[0250] Although not shown in FIG. 38, in some embodiments, at least
a portion of the layers 6239 can be disposed, at least temporarily,
within a housing or the like. For example, in some embodiments, the
layers 6239 can be coupled to the base 6238, as described above,
and a housing can be disposed about at least a portion of the
layers 6239 and the base 6238. Expanding further, in some
embodiments, the housing can be movably disposed about the base and
can define a window through which the engagement portion 6280 of
the layers 6239 can extend. Thus, a user can manipulate the
engagement portion 6280 of a layer 6239 to remove the layer 6239
from the adjustment member 6230. In some embodiments, the layer
6239 can be withdrawn through the window defined by the housing. In
this manner, the housing can be moved in the proximal direction to
be placed in contact with the outermost layer 6239, thereby
allowing a shaft length of the puncture member 6240 between the
distal edge 6245 and a distal surface of the housing to be
increased. In some embodiments, the window can provide for
visualization of the shaft length indicator (described above).
[0251] As described above with reference to FIG. 36, the increase
in the distance D.sub.4 can be such that further movement of the
puncture member 6240 (e.g., in a distal direction) relative to the
sclera places the lumen 6241 of the puncture member 6240 in fluid
communication with the suprachoroidal space (e.g., the
suprachoroidal space 36 of the eye 10 in FIG. 1). Similarly stated,
the increase in the distance D.sub.4 can be sufficiently large to
extend the distal edge 6245 of the puncture member 6240 through the
sclera such that the lumen 6241 is placed in fluid communication
with the suprachoroidal space. Expanding further, by removing the
one or more layers from the set of layers 6239 of the adjustment
member 6230, the distance between the outermost layer 6239 of the
adjustment member 6230 and the distal edge 6245 of the puncture
member 6240 (e.g., the distance D.sub.4) is increased and the user
can move the hub 6270 (e.g., either directly or indirectly) place
the current outermost layer in contact with the outer surface of
the sclera.
[0252] With the lumen 6241 of the puncture member 6240 in fluid
communication with the suprachoroidal space, a drug formulation
(contained within a fluid reservoir as described above with
reference to FIG. 36) can be expelled through the lumen 6241 of the
puncture member 6240 and into the suprachoroidal space of the eye.
In this manner, the drug formulation can flow within the
suprachoroidal space to be delivered to, for example, the posterior
region of the eye (e.g., the posterior region 14 of the eye 10 in
FIG. 1). Moreover, with the adjustment member 6230 in the second
configuration, the distance D.sub.4 can be less than a thickness of
the sclera and the suprachoroidal space such that the distal end
portion 6244 of the puncture member 6240 does not pierce the
choroid.
[0253] As described herein, a system, for example, the system 1000,
2000, 3000, or any other system described herein, can include a
hub, for example, the hub 3270, 4270, 5270, or any other hub
described herein. The hub can be configured to form a substantially
fluid-tight zone around the insertion site of a puncturing member
(e.g., the puncturing member 3240 or any other puncturing member
described herein) into the eye. For example, in some embodiments, a
system can include a hub or contact surface configured to contact a
surface of a target tissue to produce the desired effects during
medicament delivery (e.g., maintaining a position of the
conjunctiva, forming a seal or the like).
[0254] FIG. 39 shows an apparatus 7000 that includes a medical
injector 7310, an actuation rod 7320, a needle 7240, and a hub
7270, and optionally a needle adjustment mechanism 7230. The system
7000 can be configured to deliver a medicament to a target layer of
an eye of patient, for example, to the SCS of the eye.
[0255] The medical injector 7310 defines an internal volume 7316
configured to house a medicament L (e.g., a VEGF, a VEGF inhibitor,
triamcinolone acetonide, any other medicament described herein or a
combination thereof). The medical injector 7310 includes an
engagement portion 7312 and a delivery portion 7314 coupled to the
needle adjustment mechanism 7230. The medical injector 7310 can be
substantially similar to the medicament containment chamber 1310,
2310, 3310, or any other medicament containment chamber described
herein, and is therefore not described in further detail
herein.
[0256] The actuation rod 7320 includes an engagement portion 7322
and a plunger portion 7324. The plunger portion 7324 is slidably
disposed inside the internal volume 7316 defined by the medical
injector 7310. The engagement portion 7322 is configured to be
engaged by the user and urge the plunger portion 7324 to slide
within the internal volume 7316 defined by the medical injector
7310. For example, the user can apply a force in the direction
shown by the arrow F.sub.1 on the engagement portion 7322 to move
the plunger portion 7324 proximally relative to the medical
injector 7310 thereby, expelling at least a portion of the
medicament L through a lumen 7241 of the needle 7240. As shown, at
least a portion of the actuation rod 7320 can be disposed around
and concentric with the medical injector 7310. The plunger portion
7324 is configured to draw in the medicament L into or expel the
medicament L from the internal volume 7316 defined by the medical
injector 7310. In some embodiments, any other actuation rod can be
included in the apparatus 7000, for example the actuator 1320,
2320, 3320 or any other actuator described herein.
[0257] The needle 7240 defines the lumen 7241 and is configured to
pierce the eye and deliver the medicament L into a target tissue of
the eye. The needle 7240 can be substantially similar to any of the
puncturing members described herein, and is therefore not described
in further detail herein. In some embodiments, the needle 7240 can
be a microneedle movably disposed within a passageway 7276 of the
hub 7270, as described herein. The needle adjustment mechanism 7230
can be coupled to the delivery portion 7314 of the medical injector
7310 and a proximal end of the needle 7240. In some embodiments,
the needle adjustment mechanism 7230 is configured to move the
needle 7240 within the passageway 7276 such that a distal end
portion of the needle 7240 extends from the distal end surface 7275
of the hub 7270 by a predetermined amount. For example, the needle
adjustment mechanism 7230 can urge the needle 7240 to translate
linearly along the longitudinal axis A.sub.L and thereby adjust a
length of the needle 7240 protruding through a distal end 7274 of
the hub 6270. The needle adjustment mechanism 7230 can be
substantially similar to the adjustment member 422, 3200, 4230,
5230, 6230, or any other adjustment mechanism or adjustment member
described herein.
[0258] The hub 7270 is configured to be coupled to the medical
injector 7230. The hub 7270 includes a proximal end 7272 and a
distal end 7274. The proximal end 7272 is coupled to a distal end
portion of the needle adjustment mechanism 7230. In some
embodiments, the proximal end 7272 can be coupled to a housing (not
shown) which can be included in the system 7000. The hub 7270
defines the passageway 7276 configured to receive at least a
portion of the needle 7240 therethrough. In this manner, the needle
7240 is configured to pass through the lumen 7276 and into the eye.
The distal end surface 7275 of the hub 7270 is configured to
contact a target tissue (e.g., the conjunctiva of the eye) when the
medicament L (or any other substance disposed within the medical
injector 7230) is conveyed through the needle 7240 into the target
tissue. In some embodiments, the distal end surface 7275 of the hub
7270 is configured to deform the target surface (e.g., the
conjunctiva of the eye) when the distal end surface 7275 is contact
with the target surface. At least a portion of the distal end
surface 7275 can have a substantially convex shape, for example, a
hemispherical shape such that at least a portion of distal end
surface 7275 defines a sealing portion 7277. The sealing portion
7277 can be configured to define a substantially fluid-tight seal
with the target surface when the distal end surface 7275 is in
contact with the target surface. For example, the distal end
surface 7275 can deform the target surface such that the sealing
portion 7277 is contiguous with the target surface and forms the
substantially fluid-tight seal. In some embodiments, the sealing
portion 7277 can be symmetric about a center A.sub.L of the
apparatus 7000 and hence the passageway. This can, for example,
facilitate perpendicular approach of the needle 7240 into the
target tissue (e.g., ocular tissue). Thus, the size of the
insertion zone can be minimized reducing damage. Furthermore, the
needle 7240 can use the shortest path to reach a target region of
the target tissue (e.g., the SCS of the eye). While shown as being
a cross-section, the hub 7270 can be substantially cylindrical, for
example, have a circular cross-section and such that the convex
shape of the distal end surface 7275 resembles, for example, a
hemisphere. In such embodiments, the sealing portion 7277 can
circumferentially surround the needle 7240 to form a hemispherical
substantially fluid-tight seal with the target surface. In some
embodiments, only a small portion of the sealing portion 7277
surrounding the needle 7240 needs to contact and form the
substantially fluid-tight seal with the target surface. For
example, in some embodiments, only a small band of the sealing
portion 7277 surrounding the needle 7240 can contact and form the
substantially fluid-tight seal with the target surface.
[0259] In some embodiments, the target tissue is an eye and the
target surface is a conjunctiva of the eye. For example, FIGS.
40A-C shows a portion of an eye which includes a conjunctiva C, the
sclera S, the suprachoroidal space SCS (which can be the target
layer), and a retina R. As shown in FIG. 40A, in a first
configuration, the distal end 7274 of the hub 7270 is in contact
with a conjunctiva C of an eye and a distal end of the needle 7240
is disposed in a sclera S of the eye. Further to this example, the
curved shape of the distal end surface 7275 of the hub 7270 can
allow for a desired distribution of force(s) to be applied to a
portion of the eye, for example, the conjunctiva C. In some
embodiments, the curved distal end surface 7275 of the hub 7270 can
create a taut spherical injection site. For example, the hub 7274
can deform the conjunctiva C in a radial direction from the center
point (i.e., away from where the needle 7240 penetrates) when the
system 7000 moves from the first configuration to a second
configuration (e.g., the second configuration shown in FIG. 40B).
In this manner, the conjunctiva C can be moved into and/or held in
a preferable position during the injection. In some instances, this
can reduce the puncturing forces to penetrate the surface of the
eye. In some embodiments, the "stretching" of the conjunctiva C can
minimize and/or eliminate any "bunching" of the conjunctiva C that
may otherwise occur, and instead can produce a surface layer (e.g.,
conjunctiva) having a substantially constant thickness. In some
instances, the hub 7270 can, at least temporarily, adhere to a
portion of the conjunctiva C. In this manner, the hub 7270 can
cause movement of and/or stabilize at least a portion of the
conjunctiva C such that at least the portion of the conjunctiva C
is in a preferable position during the injection.
[0260] In some embodiments, the inserting of the needle 7240 into
the target tissue (i.e., the conjunctiva and the sclera) can be
performed such that a centerline of the delivery passageway and a
surface line tangent to the target surface define an angle of entry
of between about 75 degrees and about 105 degrees. For example, as
shown in FIG. 40D, a centerline C.sub.L of the lumen 7241 of the
needle 7240 can define an insertion angle .theta. with a surface
line tangent ST formed relative to the surface of the conjunctiva
C. The insertion angle .theta. can be in the range of between about
75 degrees and about 105 degrees, inclusive of all ranges
therebetween. For example, in some embodiments, the insertion angle
.theta. can be about 90 degrees. Said another way, the needle 7240
can be inserted into the target tissue (i.e., the conjunctiva C,
and the sclera S) such that the centerline C.sub.L defined by the
lumen 7241 of the needle 7240 is substantially perpendicular or
otherwise normal to the surface of the target tissue. In this
manner, the size of the insertion zone can be reduced thereby
minimizing injury and inflammation, which can be caused by any
lateral travel of the needle 7240 within the target tissue.
Furthermore, normal insertion can also provide the shortest path
for the distal tip of the needle 7240 to reach the target tissue
(e.g., the SCS) thereby, reducing the time required to reach the
target tissue (e.g., the SCS).
[0261] Referring back to FIGS. 40A-C, to initiate delivery of the
medicament L the user can apply a force F.sub.2 on the system 7000,
for example, on the engagement portion 7322 of the actuation rod
7320. The force F.sub.2 can urge the plunger portion 7324 to slide
within the internal volume 7316 of the medical injector 7310
proximally relative to the medical injector 7310 and urge the
system into a second configuration. While not shown, in some
embodiments, the system 7000 can include an injection assembly, for
example, the injection assembly 100, 2100 or any other injection
assembly described herein configured to exert the force on the
actuation rod 7320. In the second configuration, the hub 7270 is
pressed against the conjunctiva C, such that the conjunctiva C
compresses and conforms around the convex shape of the distal end
surface 7275 of the hub 7270. This also pushes the needle 7240
further into the sclera S. Furthermore, at least a portion of the
sealing portion 7277 defined by the distal end surface 7275 is
contiguous with the deformed surface of the conjunctiva C such that
the sealing portion 7277 defines a substantially fluid-tight seal
with the conjunctiva C around the insertion site. In some
embodiments, the sealing portion 7277 can be substantially
symmetrical about the centerline C.sub.L of the needle 7240 (e.g.,
as shown in FIG. 40D). In some embodiments, only a circular band of
the sealing portion 7277 can contact and form a substantially
fluid-tight seal with the conjunctiva C surrounding the needle
7240. However, in the second configuration, the distal end of the
needle 7240 can still be proximal relative to but not within the
suprachoroidal space SCS, which can be the target layer for
delivery of the medicament L.
[0262] In some embodiments, the hub 7270 can be a rigid member that
has a stiffness substantially greater than the stiffness of the
conjunctiva C (e.g., a stiffness substantially similar to a
stiffness of stainless steel). In such embodiments, application of
the force F.sub.2 only deforms the conjunctiva C, without causing
any substantial deformation of the hub 7270. In some embodiments,
the hub 7270 can have a stiffness that is intermediate to the
stiffness of the conjunctiva C and the sclera S. In such
embodiments, application of the force F.sub.2 can urge the hub 7270
to deform the conjunctiva C (FIGS. 40B and 40C) until the distal
end surface 7275 of the hub 7270 is proximate to the sclera S.
Since the stiffness of the hub 7270 is less than the stiffness of
the sclera S, further application of the force F.sub.2 will urge
the distal end surface 7275 of the hub 7270 to deform without any
substantial deformation of the sclera S. In this manner, the hub
7270 can prevent application of an excessive force from causing
damage to or otherwise deformation and/or piercing of the internal
layers of the eye.
[0263] In a third configuration shown in FIG. 40C, the user can
then maintain the force F.sub.2 and increase the length of the
needle 7240 protruding into the eye, for example, using the needle
adjustment mechanism 7230. The length of the needle 7240 can be
increased until a distal tip or outlet of the needle 7240 is within
or otherwise near the suprachoroidal space SCS. The force F.sub.2
can further depress the distal end surface 7275 of the hub 7270
into the conjunctiva C. This can urge substantially all of the
sealing portion 7277 of the distal end surface 7275 to be
contiguous with the conjunctiva C further strengthening the
substantially fluid-tight seal. In this manner, leakage of the
injected medicament L along the needle 7240 track during the
injection event can be reduced and/or eliminated. Expanding
further, in some embodiments, the anatomy of the target tissue
and/or the arrangement of the system 7000 can be such that, in use,
a portion of the opening of the lumen 7241 of the needle 7240 may
be placed in fluid communication with the suprachoroidal space SCS
of the eye, while another portion of the opening of the lumen 7241
may be positioned within the sclera S. Thus, when the medicament L
is conveyed into the eye via the needle 7240, a portion of the
medicament L may be prone to migrating away from the desired
region, i.e., the suprachoroidal space SCS and out of the eye via
the needle 7240 track. By forming a substantially fluid-tight seal
and/or a substantially liquid-tight seal, the hub 7270 can produce
an area of high resistance to flow, thus minimizing and/or
eliminating the flow migration and/or leakage.
[0264] While not shown, in some embodiments, the system 7000 can
include an injection assembly, for example, the injection assembly
100, 2100 or any other injection assembly described herein. As
described before herein, the injection assembly can be configured
to exert a force on the medicament L disposed in the internal
volume 7316 of the medicament containment chamber 7310. The force
can be sufficient to overcome a backpressure of the suprachoroidal
space SCS exerted upon the needle opening, but not the backpressure
of the sclera S. In such embodiments, the user can insert the
needle 7240 into the sclera S as shown in FIG. 40A and activate the
injection assembly. The injection assembly can pressurize the
medicament L but the backpressure of the sclera S can prevent the
medicament L from delivery into the sclera S. As shown in FIG. 40B,
the user can continue the insertion of the needle 7240, for
example, by maintaining or increasing a magnitude of the force
F.sub.2. This can urge the hub 7240 to deform the conjunctiva C and
initiate the formation of the fluid tight seal around the insertion
site, as described herein. The force F.sub.2 can be maintained
until a distal end of the needle 7240 is within or near the
suprachoroidal space SCS. The force exerted by the injection
assembly on the medicament L can now overcome the backpressure of
the suprachoroidal space SCS thereby, initiating communication of
the medicament L into or near the suprachoroidal space SCS as shown
in FIG. 40C. In this manner, the injection assembly can assist the
user in determining the location of the distal end of the needle
7240 such that the medicament L is delivered substantially only to
the target layer (i.e., the suprachoroidal space SCS). Furthermore,
over excursion of the puncturing member 7240 beyond the
suprachoroidal space SCS (i.e., into the retina R) can be
prevented.
[0265] In some embodiments, the needle adjustment mechanism 7230
can be used to ensure delivery to the target layer. In such
embodiments, the user can insert the needle 7240 into the sclera S
as shown in FIG. 40A and activate the injection assembly to
pressurize the medicament L as described herein. While maintaining
the force F.sub.2, the user can use the needle adjustment mechanism
7230 to advance the needle 7240 in predetermined increments (e.g.,
about 100 .mu.m increments) into the sclera S, for example, as
described herein with reference to the needle assembly 422, 3200,
or any other needle assembly describe herein. In this manner, the
needle adjustment mechanism 7230 can be used to advance the needle
7240 through the sclera S until a distal end of the needle 7240 is
within or near the suprachoroidal space SCS. The force exerted by
the injection assembly on the medicament L can now overcome the
backpressure of the suprachoroidal space SCS thereby, initiating
communication of the medicament L into or near the suprachoroidal
space SCS as shown in FIG. 40C. Thus, by allowing the user to
advance the needle 7240 in known discrete increments, the needle
adjustment mechanism 7230 can assist the user in preventing over
excursion of the needle 7240 beyond the suprachoroidal space SCS
(i.e., into the retina R). In this manner, the injection assembly
can assist the user in determining the location of the distal end
of the needle 7240 such that communication of the medicament into a
layer of the eye other than the target layer (i.e., the
suprachoroidal space SCS) can be prevented. Furthermore, the needle
adjustment mechanism 7230 can assist the user in precisely
controlling the excursion length of the needle 7240, thereby
eliminating the use of excessive force and/or preventing over
excursion of the needle 7240 beyond the target layer (i.e., the
suprachoroidal space SCS).
[0266] In some embodiments, the hub 7270 or any of the hubs
described herein can be constructed from a relatively soft
material, which can be well-suited to forming a fluid-tight seal.
For example, in some embodiments, the system 7000, or any other
system described herein can be used to deliver a medicament through
the skin of a user (e.g., for intravenous or intramuscular delivery
of the medicament). In such embodiments, the hub 7270 or any other
hub described herein can have a stiffness less than the stratum
corneum that forms the top layer of the skin. The distal end
surface 7275 of the hub 7270 or any other hub described herein can
deform about the stratum corneum as a force is applied on the
system 7000. In this manner, the sealing portion 7277 defined by
the distal end surface 7275 of the hub 7270 can form a fluid tight
seal around the stratum corneum thereby preventing leakage of the
medicament, an interstitial fluid, and/or blood from the injection
site. In yet other embodiments, the hub 7270 can be constructed
from multiple materials. For example, in some embodiments, the
distal end surface 7275 of the hub 7270 can be constructed from
and/or can include a layer or portion constructed from a material
formulated to form a substantially fluid-tight seal with the outer
surface of the target tissue (e.g., the conjunctiva C).
[0267] FIGS. 41A and 41B show a finite element analysis (FEA) model
of the distal portion 7274 of the hub 7270 compressed against the
conjunctiva C of the eye. In this model, a force of 1N is exerted
on the hub 7270. At this force, the conjunctiva C is compressed by
about 2 mm, which is substantially equal to the total thickness of
the conjunctiva C. Furthermore, the conjunctiva C conforms around
the distal end surface 7275 of the distal end portion 7274 of the
hub 7270. As shown, the sealing portion 7277 of the distal end
surface forms a substantially fluid-tight seal around the injection
site of the needle 7240. The hub 7270 was modeled as a rigid and
inflexible member. However, the hub 7270 or any other hub described
herein can have any suitable stiffness based on the material used
to form the hub. In some embodiments, the hub 7270 or any other hub
described herein can have a stiffness substantially similar to the
stiffness of rubber, silicone, polymers, plastics (e.g.,
polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate,
polytetrafluoroethylene, high density polyethylene, etc.), metals
(e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, metal alloys, etc.), or any other
material described herein.
[0268] FIGS. 42A-C shows a hub 8270, according to an embodiment.
The hub 8270 includes a proximal end portion 8272 and a distal end
portion 8274. The proximal end portion 8272 can configured to be
coupled to a distal end of a housing (e.g., a distal end 3212 of
the housing 3210 of the needle assembly 3200, or any other housing
described herein) using any suitable coupling mechanism, for
example, friction-fit, threads, snap-fit, notches, grooves,
indents, detents, any other suitable coupling mechanism or
combination thereof. The hub 8270 defines a passageway 8276
therethrough. At least a portion of a needle (e.g., the puncturing
member 3240, the needle 7240, or any other puncturing member
described herein) can be disposed within the passageway 8276, and
can be configured to advance through the passageway 8276 out of the
distal end 8274. The distal end 8274 of the hub 8270 includes a
contact surface that is curved, and for example, defines a convex
or hemispherical shape. The contact surface of the distal portion
8274 is configured to (i.e., has a size and/or shape configured to)
contact an outer surface of a conjunctive of the eye and define a
sealing portion that forms a substantially fluid-tight seal around
the insertion zone of the puncturing member 8240 into a target
tissue, for example, the eye. Thus, the hub 8270 can prevent
leakage of the medicament, and/or bodily fluid from the insertion
site, as described in with respect to the hub 7270 included in the
apparatus 7000.
[0269] In some embodiments, a hub can be substantially hollow
and/or can define an enlarged lumen therethrough. Referring now to
FIGS. 43A-C, a hub 9270 includes a proximal end portion 9272, a
distal end portion 9274, and defines an internal volume 9275. The
proximal end portion 9272 can be configured to be coupled to a
distal end of a housing (e.g., the distal end 3214 of the housing
3210 included in the needle assembly 3200, or any other housing
included in a needle assembly described herein). For example, a
portion of a distal end of a housing (e.g., the housing 3210) can
be configured to slide into the internal volume 9275. At least a
portion of a needle (e.g., the puncturing member 3240, the needle
7240, or any other puncturing member described herein) can be
disposed in the internal volume 9275. In some embodiments, at least
a portion of a needle assembly, for example, the lead screw 3242
included in the needle assembly 3200 or any other component or any
other needle assembly, can also be disposed in the internal volume
9275. The distal end 9274 has a contact surface that is curved, for
example, defines a convex or a hemispherical shape, such that the
contact surface defines a sealing portion which can form a
substantially fluid-tight seal around the insertion zone of the
puncturing member (e.g., the puncturing member 3240, or the needle
7240), as described with respect to the hub 8270. The distal end
9274 defines an opening 9276 configured to enable at least portion
of the puncturing member (e.g., the puncturing member 3240) to pass
therethrough and into the ocular tissue of the eye.
[0270] In some embodiments, a hub can include one or more
engagement structures that cooperatively function to surround the
puncture member and/or contact a surface of the target tissue.
Moreover, in some embodiments, a hub can also be configured to
induce deformation and/or movement of a portion of the target
tissue when placed into contact with the target tissue. In such
embodiments, the adjustment member can minimize "bunching" of the
surface tissue (e.g., the conjunctiva). For example, FIGS. 44A and
44B are schematic illustrations of a portion of a delivery device
10000 in a first configuration and a second configuration,
respectively, according to an embodiment. The delivery device 10000
includes a hub 10270, a puncture member 10240 (also referred to
herein as a delivery member or a needle) and an engagement assembly
10280. The engagement assembly 10280 includes a first elongate
member 10281 and a second elongate member 10285. The elongate
members 10281, 10285 can be any suitable structure configured to
engage the target tissue and deform (as described herein). For
example, in some embodiments, the first elongate member 10281
and/or the second elongate member 10285 can be a thin structure
(e.g., feeler gauge, wire, etc.). In some embodiments, the first
elongate member 10281 and/or the second elongate member 10285 can
be any suitable structure configured to grip, hold, and/or deform a
portion of the target tissue (e.g., the conjunctiva). Although not
shown, additional elongate members (or "sleds") can be coupled to
the hub 10270. For example, in some embodiments, the hub 10270 can
include three elongate members attached thereto. In other
embodiments, for example, the hub 10270 can include more than three
elongate members (e.g., four, five, or more elongate members)
attached thereto.
[0271] As shown, a proximal end portion 10286 of the first elongate
member 10281 is coupled to the hub 10270. The first elongate member
10281 has a contact portion 10284 (e.g., the portion where the
first elongate member 10281 can contact a portion of the eye 10
shown in FIG. 1, during use). The first elongate member 10281 has a
distal end portion 10283. At least a portion of the first elongate
member 10281 can have a curved shape. The curved shape, for
example, can be such that the contact portion 10284 is configured
to contact a portion of the eye (e.g., the conjunctiva) along a
line tangent to a portion of the first elongate member 10281.
Further to this example, the curved shape of the portion of the
first elongate member 10281 can allow for a desired distribution of
force(s) to be applied to a portion of the eye during use. For
example, in this manner the contact portion 10284 does not contact
the surface of the eye at a single point, but rather along a
surface that is less likely to puncture the eye.
[0272] A proximal end portion 10286 of a second elongate member
10285 is coupled to the hub 10270. The second elongate member 10285
has a contact portion 10288 (e.g., where the second elongate member
10285 contacts a portion of the eye 10 shown in FIG. 1). The second
elongate member 10285 has a distal end portion 10287. At least a
portion of the second elongate member 10285 can have a curved
shape. The curved shape, for example, can be such that the contact
portion 10288 is configured to contact a portion of the eye (e.g.,
the conjunctiva) along a line tangent to a portion of the second
elongate member 10285. Further to this example, the curved shape of
the portion of the second elongate member 10285 can allow for a
desired distribution of force(s) to be applied to a portion of the
eye, as discussed above with respect to the first elongate member
10281.
[0273] When the delivery device 10000 is in a first configuration,
as shown in FIG. 44A, the distal end portion 10283 of the first
elongate member 10281 and the distal end portion 10287 of the
second elongate member 10285 are separated by a distance A1.
Similarly, in the first configuration, the contact portion 10284 of
the first elongate member 10281 and the contact portion 10288 of
the second elongate member 10285 are separated by a distance B1.
Moreover, when the delivery device 10000 is in the first
configuration, the distal tip of the puncture member 10240 is
spaced apart from the contact portion 10284 and/or the contact
portion 10288 by a distance C1 taken along a center line of the
puncture member 10240, as shown in FIG. 44A. In some embodiments,
the distal tip of the puncture member 10240 is spaced apart from a
line defined by the contact portion 10284 and the contact portion
10288 by a distance C1 taken along a center line of the puncture
member 10240.
[0274] In use, a user (e.g., a doctor, technician, nurse,
physician, ophthalmologist, etc.) can manipulate a delivery device
10000 to insert the puncture member 10240 into, for example, a
portion of the eye (e.g., the eye 10 shown in FIG. 1). In this
manner, the user can apply a distal force to move the delivery
device 10000 from the first configuration to a second
configuration. Similarly stated, when the puncture member 10240 is
inserted into the eye, the first elongate member 10281 and the
second elongate member 10285 can both move from the first
configuration to the second configuration. When the delivery device
10000 is in the second configuration, as shown in FIG. 44B, the
distal end portion 10283 of the first elongate member 10281 and the
distal end portion 10287 of the second elongate member 10285 can be
separated by a distance A2, A2 being greater than A1. In the second
configuration, as shown in FIG. 44B, the contact portion 10284 of
the first elongate member 10281 and the contact portion 10288 of
the second elongate member 10285 can be separated by a distance B2,
B2 being greater than B1. Moreover, when the delivery device 10000
is in the second configuration, the distal tip of the puncture
member 10240 is spaced apart from the contact portion 10284 and/or
the contact portion 10288 by a distance C2 taken along a center
line of the puncture member 10240, as shown in FIG. 44B, C2 being
greater than C1. In some embodiments, the distal tip of the
puncture member 10240 is spaced apart from a line defined by the
contact portion 10284 and the contact portion 10288 by a distance
C2 taken along a center line of the puncture member 10240, C2 being
greater than C1 when the delivery device 10000 is in the second
configuration.
[0275] In some embodiments, when the delivery device 10000 is moved
from the first configuration to the second configuration, the
contact portion 10284 of the first elongate member 10281 and the
contact portion 10288 of the second elongate member 10285 can cause
a portion of the eye to move, or instead, prevent a portion of the
eye from moving. Similarly stated, in some embodiments, the
deformation of the first elongate member 10281 and/or the second
elongate member 10285 can move (or alternatively maintain a
position of) a portion of the target tissue. For example, is some
uses, at least one of the contact portion 10284 or the contact
portion 10288 can contact the conjunctiva of the eye. In this
manner, at least one of the contact portions 10284, 10288 can
stabilize, hold steady, grip, stretch, or mechanically fix a
portion of the eye (e.g., the conjunctiva) when the device is moved
from the first configuration to the second configuration.
[0276] In some embodiments, the contact portions 10284, 10288 can
create a taught spherical injection site. For example, the first
elongate member 10281 and/or the second elongate member 10285 can
deform in a radial direction from the center point (i.e., away from
where the puncture member 10280 penetrates) when the delivery
device 10000 moves from the first configuration to the second
configuration. In this manner, the conjunctiva can be held in a
preferable position during the injection. In some instances, this
can reduce the puncturing force to penetrate the surface of the
eye. In some embodiments, the "stretching" of the conjunctiva can
minimize and/or eliminate any "bunching" of the conjunctiva that
may otherwise occur, and instead can produce a surface layer (e.g.,
conjunctiva) having a substantially constant thickness. In some
instances, the contact portions 10284, 10288 can, at least
temporarily, adhere to a portion of the surface layer (e.g.,
conjunctiva). In this manner, the contact portions 10284, 10288 can
cause movement of and/or stabilize at least a portion of the
surface layer such that at least the portion of the surface layer
is in a preferable position during the injection.
[0277] In some embodiments, the elongate member 10281 and/or the
elongate member 10285 can be attached to the hub 10270 in any
suitable manner, as shown in FIGS. 44A and 44B. In yet other
embodiments, the elongate member 10281 and/or the elongate member
10285 can be coupled to an elongate member holder or interface (not
shown). The elongate member holder can be coupled to the hub 10270.
In some embodiments, the elongate member holder (not shown) can be
a ring.
[0278] The elongate members 10281, 10285 can be any suitable
material (e.g., metallic or plastic). In some embodiments, the
sleds can contain a plurality of different materials. For example,
the contact portion 10284 of the first elongate member 10281 may
contain a material not contained on a different portion of the
first elongate member 10281. In some embodiments, for example,
additional materials (e.g., a coating) can be applied to any
portion of the elongate members 10281, 10285. Further to this
example, the additional material can be configured to increase or
decrease friction between the elongate members 10281, 10285 and a
surface layer (e.g., conjunctiva). In some embodiments, a plurality
of additional materials can be applied to the elongate members
10281, 10285. Each additional material (e.g., coating) from the
plurality of additional materials, for example, can include
relatively unique material properties (e.g., viscosity, density,
surface tension, etc.).
[0279] In some embodiments, the elongate members 10281, 10285 can
provide an indicator associated with at least one of the distance
A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and/or C2. In some embodiments, the indicator
can be a visual indicator such as a measuring scale, graduated
marking or the like. For example, in some embodiments, the first
elongate member 10281 can include indicia (e.g., lines, markings,
tic marks, etc.). In some embodiments, the markings can represent a
change in location of the distal tip of the puncture member 10240
from the first configuration to the second configuration. In yet
another embodiment, the markings can represent a portion of the eye
where the distal tip of the puncture member 10240 is located. For
example, the markings can indicate whether the distal tip of the
puncture member 10240 is located in the sclera, choroid,
suprachoroidal space, or retina of the eye. For another example,
the markings can indicate by term the location of the distal tip of
the puncture member 10240 (e.g., sclera, choroid, suprachoroidal
space, retina, etc.), and can further indicate a location within
the termed location (e.g., a location within the choroid). In this
manner, the markings can indicate, for example, the location of the
distal tip of the puncture member 10240 relative to the sclera
and/or the choroid when the distal tip is located within the
suprachoroidal space.
[0280] Although shown as including multiple, deformable elongate
members, in other embodiments an engagement assembly and/or an
adjustment assembly, for example, included or coupled to a hub, can
include a single deformable member. For example, FIGS. 45A and 45B
are schematic illustrations of a portion of a delivery device
11000, according to an embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 45A
illustrates a portion of a delivery device 11000 in a first
configuration and a second configuration (e.g., illustrated with
dashed lines), and FIG. 45B illustrates a bottom view of the
portion of the delivery device 11000. The delivery device 11000
includes a hub 11270, a puncture member 11240 (also referred to
herein as a delivery member or a needle) and an engagement member
11280. The engagement member 11280 can be any suitable structure
configured to engage the target tissue.
[0281] As shown, a proximal portion 11282 of the engagement member
11280 is coupled to the delivery device 11000. The engagement
member 11280 is coupled to the delivery device 11000 via the hub
11270. In yet other embodiments, the engagement member 11280 can be
coupled to an engagement member holder (not shown). The engagement
member holder can then be coupled to the hub 11270. The engagement
member 11280 has a contact portion 11284.
[0282] When the delivery device 11000 is in a first configuration,
as shown, in FIG. 45A, a portion of the contact portion 11284 of
the engagement member 11280 is spaced apart from the distal tip of
the puncture member 11240 by a distance A1 taken along a center
line of the puncture member 11240. In some embodiments, the distal
tip of the puncture member 11240 is spaced apart from a line
defined by the contact portion 11282 of the engagement member 11280
by a distance A1 taken along a center line of the puncture member
11240. In use, a user (e.g., a doctor, technician, nurse,
physician, ophthalmologist, etc.) can manipulate a delivery device
(not shown) to insert the puncture member 11240 into, for example,
a portion of the eye (e.g., the eye 10 shown in FIG. 1). In this
manner, the user can apply a distal force to move the delivery
device 11000 from the first configuration to a second
configuration. Similarly stated, when the puncture member 11240 is
inserted into the eye, the engagement member 11280 can move from
the first configuration to the second configuration, as illustrated
by the dashed line in FIG. 45A. When the delivery device 11000 is
in the second configuration, as shown in FIG. 44A, a portion of the
contact portion 11284 of the engagement member 11280 and the distal
tip of the puncture member 11240 are separated by a distance A2
(see the distance indicated from the dashed lines), A2 being
greater than A1. In some embodiments, when the delivery device
11000 is in the second configuration, the distal tip of the
puncture member 11240 is spaced apart from a line defined by the
contact portion 11284 of the engagement member 11280 by a distance
A2 taken along a center line of the puncture member 11240, A2 being
greater than A1.
[0283] In some embodiments, when the delivery device 11000 is moved
from the first configuration to the second configuration, the
contact portion 11284 can cause a portion of the eye to move, or
instead, prevent a portion of the eye from moving. Similarly
stated, in some embodiments, the deformation of the engagement
member 11280 can move (or alternatively maintain a position of) a
portion of the target tissue. For example, in some uses, the
contact portion 11282 of the engagement member 11280 can stabilize,
hold steady, grip, stretch, or mechanically fix a portion of the
eye (e.g., the conjunctiva) when the delivery device 11000 is moved
from the first configuration into the second configuration.
[0284] Although the engagement member 11280 is shown and described
above as including a contact portion 11284 that is curved in a
convex manner (i.e., curved outwardly, or in a manner that
resembles an outer surface of a sphere), in other embodiments, a
hub and/or an engagement member can include a contact portion that
is curved in a concave manner (i.e., curved inwardly, or in a
manner that resembles an inner surface of a sphere).
[0285] In some embodiments, the engagement member 11280 can deform
at a variable rate. For example, the engagement member 11280 can
provide variable resistance when a user manipulates the delivery
device 11000. In some embodiments, the engagement member 11280 can
provide a hard stop (i.e., a user would be substantially prevented
from further inserting the puncture member 11240 into a portion of
the eye). In yet other embodiments, the engagement member 11280 can
be configured to provide variable resistance based on its level of
deformity. In this manner, the engagement member 11280 can be
configured to provide a first level of resistance when the puncture
member 11240 is in a first portion of the eye and a second level of
resistance when the puncture member 11240 is in a second portion of
the eye, the first level of resistance being different than the
second level of resistance. In some embodiments, for example, the
first portion of the eye can be the sclera and the second portion
of the eye can be the suprachoroidal space.
[0286] In some embodiments, the engagement member 11000 can provide
an indicator associated with at least one of the distance A1 or A2
(i.e., the depth of penetration of the puncture member 11240). In
some embodiments, the indicator can be a visual indicator such as a
measuring scale, graduated marking or the like. For example, in
some embodiments, the engagement member 11280 can include indicia
(e.g., lines, markings, tic marks, etc.). In some embodiments, the
markings can represent a change in location of the distal tip of
the puncture member 11240 from the first configuration to the
second configuration. In yet other embodiments, the markings can
represent a portion of the eye where the distal tip of the puncture
member 11240 is located. For example, the markings can indicate
whether the distal tip of the puncture member 11240 is located in
the sclera, choroid, suprachoroidal space, or retina of the eye.
For another example, the markings can indicate by the anatomical
term the location of the distal tip of the puncture member 11240
(e.g., sclera, choroid, suprachoroidal space, retina, etc.) and can
further indicate a location within the termed location (e.g., a
location within the choroid). In this manner, the markings can
indicate, for example, the location of the distal tip of the
puncture member 11240 relative to the sclera and/or the choroid
when the distal tip is located within the suprachoroidal space.
[0287] Although the engagement assembly 10000 is shown and
described above as including two or more elongate members having
contact portions that are curved in a convex manner (i.e., curved
outwardly, or in a manner that resembles an outer surface of a
sphere), in other embodiments, a hub, an engagement assembly and/or
adjustment member can include a contact portion or surface that is
curved in a concave manner (i.e., curved inwardly, or in a manner
that resembles an inner surface of a sphere). Similarly stated, in
some embodiments, a delivery device can include a hub, an
engagement assembly and/or adjustment member having a surface that
is configured to engage, fit and/or conform to the surface of the
target tissue (e.g., the eye). As one example, FIGS. 46-47 are
perspective views of a portion of a delivery device according to an
embodiment. In particular, FIGS. 46-47 are perspective views of an
engagement member 12280 configured to be used in conjunction with
any of the delivery devices shown and described herein. The
engagement member 12280 includes a proximal end portion 12281 and a
distal end portion 12282 and defines a lumen or passageway
therebetween.
[0288] The proximal end portion 12281 of the engagement member
12280 can be coupled to a delivery device (not shown in FIG. 46).
In some embodiments, the proximal end portion 12281 of the
engagement member 12280 can be coupled to the hub 10270 (not shown
in FIGS. 45-46), or any other hub described herein. For example, in
some embodiments, the engagement member 12280 can be threadedly
coupled to a hub to control an effective length of a puncture
member (also referred to as a delivery member or needle) as
described above. In this manner, the engagement member 12280 can
perform the function of a needle adjustment mechanism.
[0289] As shown in FIGS. 46 and 47, the distal end portion 12282 of
the engagement member 12280 includes three contact members 12283.
Each of the contact members 12283 has a surface that includes an
inverse-dimpled or "beaded" traction pattern 12284. The contact
members 12283 are configured to contact a surface of the target
tissue (e.g., the conjunctiva of the eye) during use to facilitate
insertion of a puncture member (not shown) and/or injection of a
drug formulation into the target tissue. The distal end portion
12282 of the engagement member 12280 and/or the contact members
12283 can be any suitable structure configured to engage the target
tissue (as described herein). For example, in some embodiments, the
distal end portion 12282 of the engagement member 12280 and/or the
contact members 12283 can be any suitable structure configured to
grip, hold, and/or deform a portion of the target tissue (e.g., the
conjunctiva of the eye). As shown, at least a portion of the distal
end portion 12282 and/or the contact members 12283 have a curved
shape. The curved shape, for example, can be such that the contact
members 12283 are configured to contact a portion of the eye (e.g.,
the conjunctiva) along a line tangent to a portion of the contact
members 12283. Further to this example, the curved shape of the
portion of the contact members 12283 can allow for a desired
distribution of force(s) to be applied to a portion of the eye.
[0290] In some embodiments, the contact members 12283 can create a
taught spherical injection site. For example, the contact members
12283 can deform in a radial direction from the center point (i.e.,
away from where the puncture member penetrates) when the delivery
device (not shown) moves from a first configuration to a second
configuration. In this manner, the conjunctiva can be moved into
and/or held in a preferable position during the injection. In some
instances, this can reduce the puncturing forces to penetrate the
surface of the eye. In some embodiments, the "stretching" of the
conjunctiva can minimize and/or eliminate any "bunching" of the
conjunctiva that may otherwise occur, and instead can produce a
surface layer (e.g., conjunctiva) having a substantially constant
thickness. In some instances, the contact members 12283 can, at
least temporarily, adhere to a portion of the surface layer (e.g.,
the conjunctiva). In this manner, the contact members 12283 can
cause movement of and/or stabilize at least a portion of the
surface layer such that at least the portion of the surface layer
is in a preferable position during the injection.
[0291] In some embodiments, the engagement member 12280 (and any of
the engagement and/or adjustment members shown and described
herein) can form a substantially fluid-tight seal and/or a
substantially liquid-tight seal with the outer surface of the
target tissue (e.g., the conjunctiva of the eye). In this manner,
leakage of the injected medicament along the needle track during
the injection event can be reduced and/or eliminated. Expanding
further, in some embodiments, the anatomy of the target tissue
and/or the arrangement of the delivery device can be such that, in
use, a portion of the opening of the needle (not shown) may be
placed in fluid communication with the suprachoroidal space (e.g.,
suprachoroidal space 36 in FIG. 1) of the eye, while another
portion of the opening of the needle may be positioned within the
sclera 20 (e.g., sclera 20 in FIG. 1). Thus, when the drug
formulation is conveyed into the eye via the needle (not shown), a
portion of the drug formulation may be prone to migrating away from
the desired region (e.g., the suprachoroidal space 36 in FIG. 1)
and out of the eye via the needle track. By forming a substantially
fluid-tight seal and/or a substantially liquid-tight seal, the
engagement member 12280 (e.g., the surface of the contact members
12283) can produce an area of high resistance to flow, thus
minimizing and/or eliminating the flow migration and/or
leakage.
[0292] In some embodiments, the engagement member 12280 can be
constructed from a relatively soft material, which can be
well-suited to forming a fluid-tight seal. In yet other
embodiments, the engagement member 12280 can be constructed from
multiple materials. For example, in some embodiments, the contact
members 12283 of the engagement member 12280 can be constructed
from and/or can include a layer or portion constructed from a
material formulated to form a substantially fluid-tight seal with
the outer surface of the target tissue (e.g., the conjunctiva).
Although the contact members 12283 are shown and described above as
including a beaded surface, in other embodiments, the contact
members 883 can include any suitable surface features. For example,
as shown in FIG. 48, in some embodiments, an engagement member
13280 can include a series of contact members 13283 having a smooth
surface. As another example, as shown in FIG. 49, in some
embodiments, an engagement member 14280 can include a series of
contact members 14283 having a ridged and/or stepped surface. In
other embodiments, for example, an engagement member can include a
contact member having a ribbed surface (e.g., similar to that shown
in FIG. 52).
[0293] In other embodiments, an engagement member and/or contact
members can include any combination of suitable surface features.
In this manner, for example, an engagement member can include a
first contact member with a smooth surface and a second contact
member with a ribbed surface. As another example, a contact member
can include a first portion having a ribbed surface and a second
portion having a beaded surface.
[0294] Although shown as including three contact members, in other
embodiments, an engagement member, hub and/or adjustment member can
include any number of contact members. For example, FIGS. 50-55 are
illustrations of delivery devices according to various embodiments.
In particular, FIG. 50 is a perspective view of an engagement
member 15280 according to some embodiments. FIG. 51 is a
perspective view of an engagement member 16280 according to some
embodiments. As shown, for example in FIGS. 50 and 51, in some
embodiments, the engagement member 15280, 16280 can include contact
members 15283, 16283 that are curved in a spherical manner. Further
to this example, in some embodiments, the contact member 15283 can
include a dimpled surface (e.g., FIG. 50). In yet other
embodiments, for example, the contact member 16283 can include a
smooth surface (e.g., FIG. 51). FIG. 52 is a perspective view of an
engagement member 17280 according to some embodiments. FIG. 53 is a
perspective view of an engagement member 18280 according to some
embodiments. As shown, for example in FIGS. 52 and 53, in some
embodiments, the engagement member 17280, 18280 can include contact
members 17283, 18283 that are curved in a planar manner. Further to
this example, in some embodiments, the contact member 172823 can
include a ribbed surface (e.g., FIG. 52). In yet other embodiments,
for example, the contact member 18283 can include a smooth surface
(e.g., FIG. 53). FIG. 54 shows a perspective view of the engagement
member 18280 in use with a delivery device 18000 to engage an eye
and/or deliver a medicament thereto, according to an embodiment.
The delivery device can be similar to the delivery device 100, 400,
1000, 2000, 3000, 7000, or any other delivery device or medical
injector described herein. FIG. 55 shows a cross-sectional view of
the perspective view shown in FIG. 54. The delivery device 18000
includes a hub 18270, a puncture member 18240 (also referred to
herein as a delivery member or a needle) and an engagement member
18280.
[0295] In use, a user (e.g., a doctor, technician, nurse,
physician, ophthalmologist, etc.) can manipulate the delivery
device 18000 to insert the puncture member 18240 into, for example,
a portion of the eye (e.g., the eye 10 shown in FIG. 1). In this
manner, the user can apply a distal force such that puncture member
18240 is advanced distally relative to and/or through the
engagement member 18280 (e.g., as shown by arrow F1 along
longitudinal axis AA in FIG. 55). In this manner, a portion of the
puncture member 11080 can be advanced through a portion of the
eye.
[0296] In some embodiments, a system for ocular injection can
include any of the hubs described herein and/or a drug extraction
device configured to matingly engage with a housing and/or a
medicament delivery container. For example, referring now to FIGS.
56-71, in some embodiments, a system 19000 can include housing
19110, an actuator 19320, an actuating member 19140, a medicament
containment chamber 19310, a hub 19270, a needle 19240, and a cap
19280. The system 19000 can be configured to deliver a substance,
for example, a medicament to a target tissue, for example, the SCS
of an eye.
[0297] The housing 19110 (FIG. 57) includes a first portion 19110a,
and a second portion 19110b (collectively "19110") that can be
coupled together to define an internal region for housing at least
a portion of the medicament containment chamber 19310 and the
actuator 19320. The housing 19110 includes a gripping portion 19112
to allow a user to grip the housing 19110 between his index and
middle finger. The housing 19110 also includes ridges 19114 to
allow easy gripping of the housing 19110 by the user. For example,
the user can grip the gripping portion 19112 with one hand and grip
the ridges 19114 with the fingers of a second hand during
injection, for example, delivery of a medicament into a target
tissue (e.g., ocular tissue). In this manner, the user any sideways
movement of the system 19000 during medicament delivery can be
reduced. A set of windows 19116 are defined in a sidewall of the
housing 19110. The set of windows 19116 can be configured to allow
the user to view the interior volume of the medicament containment
chamber 19310, for example, to view a level of a medicament
remaining in the medicament containment chamber 19310. The housing
19110 also include a set of slots 19118, each slot configured to
slidably receive a rib 19323 included in an engagement portion
19322 of the actuator 19320, such that the set of slots are
configured to keep the actuator 19320 aligned as the actuator 19320
is displaced within the housing 19110 and the medicament
containment chamber 19310.
[0298] As shown in FIGS. 57 and 58, the actuator 19320 includes an
engagement portion 19322 and a plunger portion 19324. The
engagement portion 19322 includes a set of ribs 19323 slidably
disposed in the set of slots 19118 of the housing 19110, as
described before. A portion of the engagement portion 19322 is
disposed in a cavity 19146 defined by the actuating member 19140
(see, e.g., FIG. 62). The plunger portion 19324 includes a
protrusion 19327 disposed on a distal end of the actuator 19320.
The protrusion 19327 can be configured to be disposed in a recess
19335 defined by a plug 19328 with close tolerance (e.g., friction
fit), as described herein. The plug 19328 (FIGS. 59-60) is disposed
in the internal volume 19316 defined by the medicament containment
chamber 19310. The plug 19328 includes a proximal end 19332 coupled
to the plunger portion 19324 of the actuator 19320 and a distal end
19334 in fluid communication with a medicament or any other liquid
disposed in the internal volume 19316 defined by the medicament
containment chamber 19310. The plug 19328 can be made of a rigid
but soft material, for example, rubber, and includes the recess
19335 configured to receive the protrusion 19327 of the actuator
19320 with close tolerance (e.g., friction fit). The plug 19328
includes a first sidewall 19336a and a second sidewall 19336b
(collectively referred to as the "sidewalls 19336) in contact with
a sidewall of the internal volume 19316 of the medicament
containment chamber 19310. The sidewalls 19336 form a substantially
fluid-tight seal with the sidewalls of the inner volume 19316
defined by the medicament containment chamber 19310. In this
manner, the plug 19328 can prevent leakage of the liquid medicament
from the internal volume 19316, for example, leakage of the
medicament into a portion of the internal volume 19316 within which
the plunger portion 19324 of the actuator 19320 is disposed.
[0299] The actuation member 19140 (FIGS. 61-62) includes a
depression 19142, shaped to conform to a thumb of a user, for
example, to allow easy displacement of the actuating member 19140
by the user. The actuating member 19140 also includes ridges 19144
configured to allow easy gripping of the actuating member 19140,
for example, when loading a medicament into the medicament
containment chamber 19310. The actuation member 19140 also includes
a cavity 19146, configured to slidably receive a portion of the
engagement portion 19322 of the actuator 19320 with close tolerance
(e.g., friction fit). In some embodiments, the actuating member
19140 can be configured to be engaged by the user to manually move
the plunger portion 19324 of the actuator 19320 within the internal
volume 19316 of the medicament containment chamber 19310. In some
embodiments, the actuating member 19140 can be included in an
injection assembly, for example, the injection assembly 100, 2100,
or any other injection assembly described herein, that can be
included in the system 19000. The actuating member 19140 can be
configured to activate the injection assembly, for example, to
release and/or move the actuator 19320 such that the plunger
portion 19324 moves within the internal volume 19316 and expels at
least a portion of the medicament through the needle 19240 (e.g.,
into the SCS of the eye).
[0300] As shown in FIGS. 63-65, the medicament containment chamber
19310 defines an internal volume 19316, configured to house a
medicament. The medicament containment chamber 19310 includes a
delivery portion 19324. A first set of threads 19318a and a second
set of threads 19318b (FIG. 63) are formed on an outer wall of the
delivery portion 19314. Said another way, the outer wall of the
delivery portion 19314 includes double-start threads. The threads
19318 are configured to allow coupling of the medicament
containment chamber 19310 to a coupling portion 19272 of the hub
19270. In some embodiments, any other hub, an injection site
marker, for example, the injection site marker 20280 described
below, and/or an extraction device, for example extraction device
21280, can be coupled to the delivery portion 19324 via the threads
19318. The delivery portion 19314 includes a first cavity 19315
configured to receive an engagement portion 19273 (e.g., a nozzle)
of the hub 19270, such that a fluidic channel 19317 included in the
delivery portion 19314 is in fluid communication with a first
fluidic channel 19277 included in the engagement portion 19273 of
the hub 19270. The medicament containment chamber 19310 also
includes a second cavity 19313. The engagement portion 19322 of the
actuator 19320 is disposed within the second cavity 19313 and is
configured to be slidably displaced within the second cavity
19313.
[0301] As shown in FIGS. 66-67, the hub 19270 includes an
engagement portion 19273, a coupling portion 19272, and a delivery
portion 19274. An inner sidewall of the engagement portion 19273
and an outer sidewall of the coupling portion 19272 define a recess
19275 configured to receive the delivery portion 19314 of the
medicament containment chamber 19310. The inner sidewall of the
coupling portion 19272 includes threads 19278, configured to engage
the threads 19318a and/or 19318b of the medicament containment
chamber 19310, thereby coupling the hub 19270 to the medicament
containment chamber 19310. An outer sidewall of the coupling
portion 19272 includes a set of ridges 19276. The ridges 19276 can
facilitate a user to grip the hub 19270, for example, for coupling
or uncoupling the hub 19270 from the medicament containment chamber
19230. The engagement portion 19273, defines a fluidic channel
19277 configured to engage the fluidic channel 19317 of the
medicament containment chamber 19130 and establish fluidic
communication between the medicament containment chamber 19130 and
the hub 19270. The delivery portion 19274, defines a second fluidic
channel 19279 configured to removably receive the needle 19240, for
example, a microneedle (e.g., any suitable microneedle described
herein). The needle 19240 is configured to be disposed within a
target tissue, for example, ocular tissue and defines a lumen 19241
such that the needle 19240 is configured to establish fluidic
communication between the medicament containment chamber 19310 and
the portion of the user's body (e.g., the eye). In some
embodiments, the needle 19240 can be fixedly disposed in the second
fluidic channel 19279. In some embodiments, the needle 19240 can be
monolithically formed with the hub 19270 such that the second
fluidic channel 19279 and the lumen of the needle 19241 are
continuously and/or seamlessly formed.
[0302] As shown in FIGS. 68 and 69, the cap 19280 includes a
coupling portion 19282 that includes a first cavity 19283
configured to slidably receive the coupling portion 19272 of the
hub 19270. A set of grooves 19285 is formed on an inner sidewall of
the coupling portion 19282 configured to mate with the set of
ridges 19276 of the hub 19270 with close tolerance (e.g., friction
fit). The cap 19280 also includes an engagement portion 19284 that
defines a second cavity 19284 configured to receive the delivery
portion 19274 of the hub 19270. At least a portion of an outer
sidewall of the engagement portion 19284 is substantially flat, for
example, to allow a user to grip the cap 19280 with ease (e.g., to
couple or uncouple the hub 19270 from the medicament containment
chamber 1150). The cap 19280 can thus enable safe
coupling/uncoupling of hub 19270 to the medicament containment
chamber 19310 and/or prevent accidental piercing of a portion of a
user's body by the needle 19240 during handling of the system
19000.
[0303] Referring now to FIGS. 70-71, FIG. 70 shows the system 19000
in a first configuration, such that the actuator 19320 and the
actuating member 19140 are in a first position and the internal
volume 19316 of the medicament containment chamber 19310 is at
least partially filled with the medicament. A user can now engage
the actuating member 19140 by applying a force in the direction
shown by the arrow F on the actuating member 19140, for example,
using a thumb of the user. This urges the actuator 19320, which is
coupled to the actuating member 19140, to displace along a
longitudinal axis AA of the system 19000 and urge the system 19000
into the second configuration as shown in FIG. 71. In the second
configuration, the actuator 19320 is displaced from the first
position to a second position within the internal volume 19316 of
the medicament containment chamber 19310. This displacement causes
the plug 19328, which is in fluid communication with the
medicament, to slide from the first position to the second position
within the internal volume 19316. The movement expels the
medicament from the internal volume 19316 into the fluidic channel
19277 of the hub 19270, and further through the lumen 19241 of the
needle 19240 into the target tissue (e.g., the eye).
[0304] In some embodiments, a system for ocular injection can
include an injection marker for marking an injection site on a
target tissue, for example, ocular tissue. FIG. 72-73 show
perspective views of an injection site marker 20280 according to an
embodiment. As shown, a proximal end 20282 of the injection site
marker 20280 can be coupled to a delivery device, for example,
coupled to the coupling portion 19272 of the hub 19270 included in
the system 19000. The injection site marker 20280 has a distal end
20284, which includes a set of protrusions 20286 disposed on a
distal end surface of the distal end 20284. In some embodiments,
the proximal end 20282 of the injection site marker 20280 can be
used in conjunction with and/or coupled to any of the hubs,
engagement members and/or adjustment members described herein. For
example, in some embodiments, the injection site marker 20280 can
be threadedly coupled to a hub of a delivery device (e.g., hub
19270 of delivery device 19000). In other embodiments, for example,
the injection site marker 20280 can be coupled by way of friction
(e.g., interference fit, press fit, friction fit, etc.)
[0305] In some embodiments, the protrusions 20286 of the distal end
20284 of the injection site marker 20280 can be configured to
contact a portion of the eye (e.g., the eye 10 shown in FIG. 1). In
some embodiments, for example, the protrusions 20286 of the
injection site marker 20280 can be configured leave a marking on a
portion of the eye. The marking, for example, can indicate an
injection site. For example, the markings can appear as parallel
indentations on the conjunctiva of the eye indicating to the user
that the injection is to be performed in the region between the
parallel markings. Further to this example, in some embodiments,
the injection site marker 20280 can be removably coupled to a
delivery device (e.g., the delivery device 19000). In such
embodiments, the injection site marker 20280 can be removed from
the delivery device after marking the injection site on the target
tissue. A needle assembly and/or hub that includes a needle, for
example, the needle 19240 coupled thereto, can then be coupled to
the delivery device which can be used to deliver the medicament to
the injection site marked by the injection site marker 20280. In
some embodiments, an injection site marker can define a passageway
to allow a needle to pass therethrough. In such embodiments, the
injection site marker can remain coupled to the delivery device
during delivery of the medicament to the target tissue.
[0306] In some embodiments, a system for delivering medicaments can
include an extraction device for extracting medicaments or any
other fluid from a container, for example, a vial. Referring now to
FIG. 74-80, a system 21000 includes a housing 21110, an actuator
(not shown), an actuating member 21140, a medicament containment
chamber 21310, and an extraction member 21280. The system 21000,
that includes the extraction member 21280, can be used to extract a
liquid medicament from a medicament container 21294. The housing
21110, the actuator, the medicament containment chamber 21310, and
actuating member 21140 of the system 21000 can be substantially
similar in structure and function to the components of the system
19000 described earlier, and are therefore not described in further
detail herein.
[0307] FIG. 74 shows the extraction member 21280 uncoupled from the
medicament containment chamber 21310 while FIG. 75 shows the
extraction member 21280 coupled to the medicament containment
chamber 21310. As shown in FIG. 76, the extraction member 21280
includes a coupling portion 21281, an engagement portion 21284 and
an extraction portion 21288. Threads 21282 are formed on an inner
side wall of the coupling portion that are configured to mate with
the threads of 21318a and 21318b of the medicament containment
chamber 21310 and to couple the extraction member 21280 to the
medicament containment chamber 21310. A set of ridges 21283 are
formed on an outer sidewall of the coupling portion 21281. The
ridges 21283 can, for example, serve as grips to facilitate a user
to couple/uncouple the extraction member 21280 to the medicament
containment chamber 21250. The inner sidewall of the coupling
portion 21281 and an outer sidewall of the engagement portion 21284
define a cavity 21285, configured to receive a portion of the
medicament containment chamber 21310, when the extraction member
21280 is coupled to the medicament containment chamber 21310. The
engagement portion 21284 includes a fluidic channel 21286
configured to establish fluid communication between the extraction
member 21280 and the medicament containment chamber 21250, for
example, to allow communication of fluid from the extraction member
21280 (e.g., liquid medicament extracted from a medicament vial) to
the medicament containment chamber 21250.
[0308] The extraction portion 21288 is configured to be releasably
coupled to a container a container 21294 that contains a
medicament, and establish fluid communication between the container
21294 and the medicament containment chamber 21310 via the
extraction member 21280. The extraction portion 21288 includes a
set of arms 21289. Each of the set of arms 21289 has an angled
portion configured to flex open for receiving a cap of the
container, for example, the container 21294. Each of the set of
arms 21289 also include a ledge 21290 configured to secure the cap
of the container, for example container 21294 when the container is
coupled to the extraction member 21280, as shown in FIG. 75. The
extraction portion 21288 also includes a puncturing member 21291
that defines a fluidic channel 21292. The puncturing member 21291
is configured to puncture a seal of a container, for example,
container 21294, and establish fluid communication between the
container and the medicament containment chamber 21310, via the
extraction member 21280, as described herein.
[0309] FIG. 77 shows a perspective view of the system 21000 in a
first configuration, such that the container 21294 is uncoupled
from the extraction member 21280. The container 21294 includes a
cap 21296 that has a seal 21297, for example, a septum (e.g., a
rubber septum), and defines an internal volume for housing a liquid
medicament. FIG. 78 shows a sectioned view of the perspective view
shown in FIG. 77, but only the extraction member 21280 and the
container 21294 are shown for clarity. A user can apply a force
shown by the arrow F2 (FIG. 78) along a longitudinal axis BB of the
system 21000 to urge the extraction member 21280 towards the
container 21294. Optionally, a force can also be applied to the
container 21294 to urge the container 21294 towards the extraction
member 21280. This urges the system 21000 into the second
configuration (FIGS. 79-80) such that extraction member 21280 is
releasably coupled to the cap 1296 of the container 21294. As shown
in the sectioned view of FIG. 80, in the second configuration a
surface of the ledge 21290 included in the each of the set of arms
21289 of the extraction member 21280, are contacting a small
portion of a bottom surface of the cap 21296 of the container
21294. In this manner, the container 21294 is releasably secured to
the extraction member 21280. Furthermore, the puncturing member
21291 punctures the seal 21297 of the cap 21296 included in the
container 21294 to establish fluid communication between the
container 21294 and the medicament containment chamber 21310 via
the extraction member 21280. Medicament can now be extracted from
the container 21294 by a user by engaging the actuating member
21240, as described herein with reference to system 19000 (FIGS.
70-71). To uncouple the container 21294 from the extraction member
21280, the user can simple pull the container 21294 away from the
extraction member in a direction opposing the direction indicated
by arrow F2 (FIG. 78).
[0310] In some embodiments, a system for injection of a medicament
into an ocular tissue, for example, the SCS can include a mechanism
for insertion of the puncturing member as well as delivering the
medicament. Referring now to FIGS. 81-83, a system 22000 includes a
housing 22110, a needle assembly 22200 that includes a puncturing
member 22240 and a hub 22270, and a medicament containment chamber
22310. At least a portion of an actuator (not shown) can be
disposed in the medicament containment chamber 22310. The actuator
is configured to communicate a medicament disposed in an internal
volume of the medicament containment chamber 22310 into an ocular
tissue, for example, the SCS of an eye.
[0311] The housing 22110 has an ergonomic shape and includes ridges
22114 to allow a user to easily grip the housing 22110. The housing
22110 can define an internal volume within which at least a portion
of the medicament containment chamber 22310 and the actuator can be
disposed. In some embodiments, an injector assembly, for example,
the injector assembly 2100 or any other injector assembly described
herein can be disposed in the housing 22110. The housing 22110 is
configured to move laterally along a longitudinal axis A.sub.L of
the system 22000, between a first configuration shown in FIG. 81
and a second configuration shown in FIG. 83. In this manner, the
housing 22110 can move the actuator and draw in or expel out a
medicament from the medicament containment chamber 22310. In some
embodiments, the housing 22110 can also be configured to insert the
puncturing member 22240 into the ocular tissue.
[0312] The medicament containment chamber 22310 defines an internal
volume within which a medicament can be disposed. A set of markings
22315 can be defined on an outer surface of the medicament
containment chamber 22310. The medicament containment chamber 22310
can be substantially transparent such that the user can visually
observe a volume of the medicament disposed in the internal volume
and use the markings 22315 to determine the quantity of the
remaining medicament. In some embodiments, the medicament
containment chamber 22310 can be substantially similar to the
medicament containment chamber 1310, 2310, 3310, or any other
medicament containment chamber described herein.
[0313] The needle assembly 22200 includes a housing 22210 that can
define an internal volume configured to house the components of the
needle assembly 22200. A plurality of ridges 22216 are disposed on
an outer surface of the housing 22210. The ridges 22216 are
configured to allow a user to easily grip the housing 22210 (e.g.,
for rotating the housing 22210). The needle assembly 22200 can be
configured to adjust a length of the puncturing member 22240
protruding from a distal end 22274 of the hub 22270. For example, a
user can rotate the needle assembly 22200 about the longitudinal
axis A.sub.L to adjust a length of the puncturing member 22240
protruding from a distal end 22272 of the hub 22270. In some
embodiments, the needle assembly 22200 can include an adjustment
member, a lead screw, bushing, bearing, locking pin, markings, or
any other components as described with respect to the needle
assembly 3200 described herein.
[0314] The puncturing member 22240 is configured to be inserted
into the eye and to deliver a medicament into the eye. The
puncturing member 22240 can be substantially similar to the
puncturing member 3240 or any other puncturing member described
herein. At least a portion of the puncturing member 22240 is
disposed in the hub 22270. For example, a proximal end portion of
the puncturing member 22240 can be disposed in a passageway defined
by the hub 22270. The hub 22270 includes a proximal end 22272 and a
distal end 22274. The distal end 22274 can be curved, for example,
define a convex or hemispherical shape. A distal end surface of the
distal end 22274 can define a sealing portion configured to contact
an outer surface of the eye, for example, the conjunctiva, and form
a substantially fluid-tight seal around an insertion site of the
puncturing member 22240, as described with respect to the hub 7270.
The proximal end 22272 of the hub 22270 can be removably or fixedly
coupled to a distal portion of the housing 22210. For example, the
proximal end 22272 can include a friction fit, snap fit, threads,
grooves, notches, indents, detents, or any other suitable coupling
mechanism to couple the hub 22270 to the housing 22210. In some
embodiments, the hub 3270, 7270, 8270, 9270, or any other hub
described herein can be coupled to the housing 22210.
[0315] In a first configuration shown in FIG. 81, the housing 22210
can be disposed distally relative to the needle assembly 22200 and
the medicament containment chamber 22310. The medicament can be
disposed in the internal volume of the medicament containment
chamber 22310. In the second configuration, shown in FIG. 83, a
user can dispose the hub 22270 of the system 22000 on an outer
layer of the eye (e.g., the conjunctiva C). The user can then exert
a force on the housing 22110 in the direction shown by the arrow
F.sub.3 to move the housing 22110 proximally relative to the needle
assembly 22200. This can cause the puncturing member 22240 to be
inserted into the ocular tissue, for example, a sclera of the eye,
and the medicament to be expelled from the internal volume of the
medicament containment chamber 22310. The user can use the needle
assembly 22200 to adjust an insertion depth of the puncturing
member 22240 to ensure that the medicament is communicated to the
target ocular tissue (e.g., the SCS).
[0316] In some embodiments, a needle adjustment mechanism can
include adjusting the insertion depth of a needle into a target
tissue, for example, ocular tissue, by varying the force on an
actuation rod included in a medical injector. For example, FIGS.
84A and 84B show a portion of a medical injector 23000, that
includes an actuation rod 23320 and a needle disposed in a target
tissue in a first configuration and a second configuration,
respectively, according to an embodiment. A distal end portion of
the actuation rod 23320 is disposed in a medicament container
included in the medical injector. The medical injector can be
substantially similar to the medicament container 130, 1310, 2310,
3310, or any other medicament container described herein. The
needle 23240 can be any suitable puncture member, for example, a
microneedle (e.g., a 27 gauge needle, a 30 gauge needle, or even
smaller). The medical injector 23000 also includes a needle
adjustment mechanism that can be used to adjust the distance a
distal tip of the needle 23240 travels into the target tissue, for
example, ocular tissue based on the magnitude of force applied on
an proximal portion, for example, an engagement portion of the
actuation rod 23320. By way of example, in some embodiments, the
needle adjustment assembly can include any suitable mechanism
configured to increase the distance that the distal tip of the
needle 23240 travels into the target tissue based on the force
applied on the actuation rod 23320. The force applied on the
actuation rod 23320 can continue to increase the distance traveled
by the distal tip of the needle 23240 without delivering the
medicament from the distal tip of the needle 23240, until the
distal tip of the needle 23240 is disposed within a target region
(e.g., the SCS) of the target tissue. The force can then, for
example, overcome the backpressure of the target region of the
target tissue such that the distal tip of the needle 23240 does not
travel any further into the target tissue and the medicament is
delivered to the target region. The needle adjustment mechanism can
include any suitable components such as, for example, a biasing
member (e.g., a spring or a hydraulic biasing member), one or more
valves, and, or a force sensing mechanism. In some embodiments, the
force applied on the actuation rod 23320 can be adjusted manually,
for example, via haptic feedback to a user engaging the actuation
rod 23320. In some embodiments, an automated force adjustment
mechanism, for example, included in the needle adjustment mechanism
or an injection assembly (e.g., the injection assembly 100, 2100,
or any other injection assembly described herein) can be used to
adjust the force and thereby, control the insertion depth of the
distal tip of the needle 23240.
[0317] For example, the distal tip of the needle 23240 can be
inserted into an ocular tissue and configured to deliver a
medicament to the SCS of the ocular tissue. In the first
configuration shown in FIG. 84A, a first force F.sub.1 is applied
on the actuation rod 23320. The first force F.sub.1 (e.g., less
than about 2N) can be sufficient to overcome the backpressure of
the conjunctiva (not shown) and get inserted into the sclera S, but
insufficient to urge the distal tip of the needle 23240 to travel
across the thickness of the sclera S and be disposed in the SCS.
The user can then apply a second force F.sub.2 greater than the
first force F.sub.1 and sufficient to overcome a backpressure
and/or density of the sclera S such that the distal tip of the
needle 23240 travels through the sclera S and is disposed within or
near the SCS. In some embodiments, the second F.sub.2 can be
between about 2 N and about 6 N, for example, about 3 N, about 4 N,
about 5 N, or any other range or value therebetween. The user can
maintain the force F.sub.2 such that once the distal tip of the
needle 23240 reaches the SCS, the force F.sub.2 can overcome the
backpressure of the SCS and thereby, deliver the medicament to the
SCS. In some embodiments, the transition from the first force
F.sub.1 to the second force F.sub.2 can be gradual. For example,
the force applied on the actuator can be increased slowly from the
force F.sub.1 until the force has a sufficient magnitude (e.g.,
substantially equal to the second force F.sub.2) to urge the distal
tip of the needle 23240 to travel through the sclera S and be
disposed in the SCS.
[0318] In some embodiments, a medical injector can include an
injection assembly that includes an actuation member configured to
actuate an actuation rod included in the medical injector. For
example, FIGS. 85A and 85B show a medical injector 24000 that
includes medicament container, a needle, and an injection assembly,
in a first and a second configuration respectively, according to an
embodiment. The injection assembly includes an actuation member
24120 and an actuation rod 24320. The injection assembly can
include other components such as, for example, an energy storage
member (e.g., a spring, a compressed gas cylinder, or a propellant
container), a release member (e.g., a lock, latch, a pawl), a guide
rod, or any other components described with respect to the
injection assembly 100, 2100, or any other injection assembly
described herein. In some embodiments, the actuation member 24120
can be configured to engage and/or secure a proximal end portion of
the actuation rod 24320. In some embodiments, the actuation member
24120 can be configured to engage a release member that is
configured to engage or otherwise secure a proximal end portion of
the actuation rod 24120. The actuation member 24120 can be engaged
by a user such that the actuation member 24120 releases the
actuation rod 24320 or urges the release member to release the
actuation rod 24320. This can enable a distal end portion of the
actuation rod 24320 to move within the medicament container, as
shown in FIG. 85B.
[0319] For example, as shown in FIG. 84A-B, the actuation member
24120 includes a lever like member that can be disposed on a
sidewall of a housing coupled to the medicament container. In the
first configuration shown in FIG. 84A, the actuation member can be
a in a first position in which a distal end of the actuation member
24120 is distally disposed from the medicament container. In the
first configuration, a proximal end portion of the actuation member
24120 can be engaged by the actuation member 24120 or the release
member and prevent a distal end portion of the actuation rod 24320
from moving within the medicament container. Furthermore, an energy
storage member or a biasing member can be coupled to the proximal
end portion of the actuation rod 24320. In the second configuration
shown in FIG. 84B, a user can engage the actuation member 24120,
for example, move a distal end of the actuation member 24120
proximally relative to the medicament containment chamber in a
direction shown by the arrow A. This can urge the actuation member
to release the proximal end portion of the actuation rod 24320. In
some embodiments, the engaging of the actuation member 24120 can
engage a release member engaging or otherwise securing the proximal
end portion of the actuation rod 2320 such that the release member
releases the proximal end portion of the actuation rod 24320. The
energy storage member or biasing member coupled to the proximal end
portion of the actuation rod 24320 can then urge the distal end
portion of the actuation rod 24320 to move within the medicament
container and thereby, deliver medicament to a target tissue via
the needle.
[0320] In some embodiments, a medical injector can include a needle
adjustment mechanism that includes a wheel. For example, FIG. 86
shows a medical injector 25000 that can include a medicament
container, a needle assembly 25200, and a needle 25240. The needle
adjustment mechanism 25200 includes a wheel 25230. The wheel 25230
is pivotally mounted in a housing of the medical injector 25000.
The wheel 25230 can include a plurality of protrusions defined
thereon, which can be engaged by a user to move or otherwise rotate
the wheel 25230. The wheel 25230 can be configured to be rotated in
discrete angular displacements, such that each discrete angular
displacement corresponds to a discrete adjustment of the length of
a portion of the needle 25240 emerging from a distal end of a
housing, or a hub coupled to the housing. In some embodiments, each
discrete angular displacement can correspond to a length adjustment
of about 100 microns of the needle 25240. In this manner, the wheel
25230 can allow for digital adjustment of the length of the needle
25240. For example, a user can insert a distal tip of the needle a
first distance (e.g. corresponding to the depth of the sclera) of a
target tissue (e.g., ocular tissue). The user can then engage the
wheel 25230 by rotating the wheel 25230 about its pivot mount in
discrete increments as described herein. This can adjust the length
of the needle 25240 such that a distal tip of the needle 25240
travels a second distance into the target tissue (e.g.,
corresponding to the depth of the SCS) such that the distal tip of
the needle 25240 is disposed within or near a target region (e.g.,
the SCS) of the target tissue. The medical injector 25000 can
deliver at least a portion of the medicament disposed within the
medicament container into the target tissue (e.g., the SCS). For
example, an injection assembly (e.g., the injection assembly 100,
2100, or any other injection assembly described herein) included in
the medical injector 25000 can be configured to initiate delivery
of the medicament into the target region (e.g., the SCS), thereby
informing the user that the distal tip of the needle 25240 is
disposed in the target region. In some embodiments, the wheel 25230
can also be configured to move a distal end of an actuation rod
disposed within the medicament container, for example, to deliver
the medicament to the target tissue via the needle 25240.
[0321] In some embodiments, a medical injector can include a
pressure assist assembly configured to exert a pressure on a
proximal end portion of an actuation rod and assist, facilitate
and/or affect the delivery of a medicament from a medicament
container. For example, FIG. 87 shows a portion of a medical
injector 26000 that includes a housing 26110, a pressure assist
assembly that includes an actuation member 26120, and a medicament
container 26310 coupled to the housing 26110. A needle is also
coupled to the medicament container 26310 and in fluidic
communication with a medicament disposed within the medicament
container 26310. As shown, in some embodiments, the actuation
member 26120 can be a button disposed within a sidewall of the
housing 26110. The pressure assist assembly can also include other
components such as, for example, one or more energy storage members
(e.g., a spring, a compressed gas container, or a propellant
container). The energy storage member can be coupled to a proximal
end portion of an actuation rod included in the medical injector
26000. A distal end portion of the actuation rod can be disposed
within the medicament container 26310 and configured to move within
the medicament container 26310. In some embodiments, the pressure
assist assembly can also include a release member configured to
engage or otherwise secure the proximal end portion of the
actuation rod in a first configuration in which the medicament
container is filled with a volume of the medicament. In such
embodiments, the actuation member 26120 can be configured to engage
the release member and urge the release member to release the
proximal end portion of the actuation rod. For example, in a second
configuration, the actuation member 26120 can be engaged (e.g.,
depressed) by a user thereby urging the release member to release
the proximal end portion of the actuation rod. The energy storage
member can now exert a force on the proximal end portion of the
actuation rod configured to move a distal end portion of the
actuation rod within the medicament container 26310. This applies a
pressure on the medicament disposed within the medicament container
26310 and dispels the medicament through a distal end of the
needle.
[0322] In some embodiments, a medical injector can include a needle
adjustment mechanism that includes a leaf spring. For example, FIG.
88 shows a portion of a medical injector 27000 that includes a
medicament container 27310, a leaf spring 27230, and a needle 27240
in a first position (solid lines) and a second configuration
(dotted lines). The leaf spring 27230 can be coupled to the
medicament container 27310 or a hub coupled to the medicament
container 27310, and configured to move from a first position to a
second position in response to a force applied in a direction shown
by the arrow F. The movement of the leaf spring 27230 is configured
to allow a distal tip of the needle 27240 to be disposed within a
target region. More force can be required to move the leaf spring
27230 more and move the distal tip of the needle deeper into the
target tissue (e.g., an ocular tissue). For example, as shown in
FIG. 88, in the first configuration a distal end surface of the
leaf spring 27230 can be in contact with the outer surface of the
conjunctiva C of an eye. Furthermore, a limbus 27242 defined on a
distal end of the needle 27240 can be disposed a first distance
L.sub.1 into the eye as measured form a distal end of the leaf
spring 27230 such that the limbus 27242 is disposed in the sclera S
of the eye. A force F can be applied to move or otherwise compress
the leaf spring 27230 and move the limbus 27242 deeper into the
eye. For example, a magnitude of the force F can be increased until
the leaf spring 27230 moves into the second configuration. This
also urges the distal end of the needle 27240 to move deeper into
the eye, until in the second configuration, the limbus 27242 is
disposed a second distance L.sub.2 into the eye as measured from
the distal end of the leaf spring 27230. The second distance
L.sub.2 can correspond to a depth of the suprachoroidal space
within the eye, such that the limbus 27242 is disposed within or
near the suprachoroidal space SCS (e.g., the target region) in the
second configuration. In this manner, the leaf spring 27230 can be
used to adjust a length of the needle 27240 thereby, facilitating
delivery of a medicament to the target region of a target tissue.
In some embodiments, the movement of the leaf spring 27230 from the
first position to the second position can be configured to move the
needle a predetermined distance corresponding to the depth of a
target region of a target tissue (e.g., the SCS).
[0323] In some embodiments, a needle adjustment mechanism can
include an adjustment member movable between a first position and a
second position to adjust a distance a distal tip of a needle
travels within a target tissue. For example, FIGS. 89A and 89B show
a portion of a medical injector 28000 that includes a medicament
container 28310, a hub 28270, an adjustment member 28230 and a
needle 28240 in a first configuration and a second configuration,
respectively. The medicament container 28310 can be substantially
similar to the medicament container 130, 1310, 2310, 3310, or any
other medicament container described herein. The proximal end
portion of the hub 28270 can be coupled to the medicament container
28310 and a distal end portion of the hub 28270 can be coupled to a
proximal end of the needle 28240 such that a medicament contained
within the medicament container 28310 is in fluid communication
with the needle 28240. The hub 28270 can be substantially similar
to the hub 7270, 8270, 9270, or any other hub described herein. The
adjustment member 28230 can be slidably disposed about the needle
28240 and be configured to be movable between a first position A
and a second position B. As shown, the adjustment member 28230
defines a curved surface, which can be configured to conform the
curved surface of a target tissue, for example, an eye. The
movement of the adjustment member 28230 can be used to adjust a
distance that a distal tip of the needle 28240 can be inserted into
the target tissue, for example, ocular tissue.
[0324] For example, in the first configuration shown in FIG. 89A,
the adjustment member 28230 can be disposed at the first position A
and a distal tip of the needle 28240 can be inserted a first
distance into a target tissue (e.g., within the sclera of an eye).
Furthermore, the curved surface of the adjustment member 28230 can
be in contact with and conformal to an outer surface of the target
tissue (e.g., the conjunctiva of the eye). A force can be applied
on the medical injector 28000, for example, on a proximal end
portion of the medicament container 28310, or a proximal end
portion of an actuation rod included in the medical injector 28000.
This can urge the adjustment member 28230 to slide and move about
the needle 28240 proximally relative to the medicament container
28310. The force can be maintained until the adjustment member
28230 moves to position B. This increases the distance the distal
tip of the needle 28240 travels within the target tissue (e.g.,
ocular tissue), for example, until the distal tip of the needle
28240 is disposed within or near a target region (e.g., the SCS) of
the target tissue. In this manner, the medicament disposed within
the medicament container 28310 can be delivered to the target
region (e.g., the SCS) of the target tissue.
[0325] In some embodiments, a needle adjustment assembly can
include an adjustment member configured to adjust the length of a
needle in discrete increments. For example, FIGS. 90A-C show a
medical injector 29000 that includes a medicament container 29310,
a needle adjustment assembly 29200, and a needle 29240 fluidically
coupled to the medicament container 29310, in a first, second, and
third configuration, according to an embodiment. The medicament
container 29310 can be substantially similar to the medicament
container 130, 1310, 2310, 3310, or any other medicament container
described herein. The needle 29240 can include any suitable
puncture member, for example, a microneedle, or any other needle
described herein. The needle adjustment mechanism 29200 includes an
adjustment member 29230 configured to be engaged by a user to
adjust a length of the needle 29240, for example, to a control a
distance a distal tip of the needle 29240 travels into a target
tissue. By way of example, the adjustment member 29230 can be
configured to move in discrete increments, for example, increments
of 100 microns such that the length of the needle 29240 can be
digitally adjusted. For example, as shown in the first
configuration of FIG. 90A, the needle can have a first length
L.sub.1 (e.g., about 750 microns) measured from a distal tip of the
needle to a distal end of the medicament container 29310, or a hub
(e.g., any of the hubs described herein) coupled to the distal end
of the medicament container 29310. The length L.sub.1 can be
sufficient to insert the distal tip of the needle 29240 in a target
tissue such that the distal tip is disposed short of a target
region (e.g., the SCS) of the target tissue (e.g., ocular tissue).
The adjustment member 29230 can be engaged, for example, depressed
into the medicament chamber by a first increment by applying a
force F on the adjustment member 29230. This can increase the
length of the needle 29240 to a second length L.sub.2 (e.g., about
850 microns), as shown in FIG. 90B measured from the distal tip of
the needle 29240 to the distal end of the medicament container
29310, or a hub (e.g., any of the hubs described herein) coupled to
the distal end of the medicament container 29310. The second length
L.sub.2 can be sufficient to insert the distal tip of the needle
29240 deeper into the target tissue but still insufficient to
dispose the distal tip of the needle 29240 into the target tissue.
The adjustment member 29230 can be engaged a second time applying
the force F again on the adjustment member 29230. This can further
increase the length of the needle 29240 to a third length L.sub.3
(e.g., about 950 microns) measured from the distal tip of the
needle 29240 to the distal end of the medicament container 29310,
as shown in FIG. 90C. The third length L.sub.3 can be sufficient to
insert the distal tip of the needle 29240 deeper into the target
tissue such that the distal tip of the needle 29240 is disposed
within the target region (e.g., the SCS) of the target tissue.
Thus, delivery of the medicament contained within the medicament
container 29310 can be initiated to the target region (e.g., the
SCS) of the target tissue, for example, via an injection assembly
included in the medical injector 29000.
[0326] In some embodiments, a medical injector can include a needle
adjustment mechanism configured to allow adjustment of a length of
a needle included in the medical injector in a small set of
qualitative increments. For example, FIG. 91 shows a medical
injector 30000 that includes a needle adjustment mechanism
including an adjustment member 30230, and a needle 30240
fluidically coupled to a medicament container. The adjustment
member 30230 is slidably disposed within a sidewall of a housing of
the medical injector 30000. The adjustment member 30230 can be
configured to be moved between three discrete positions
corresponding to a short length, an intermediate (mid) length, and
a long length of the needle emerging from a distal end of the
medical injector 30000. The needle adjustment mechanism can include
other components such as, for example, notches, grooves, indents,
detents, a lock ball, a biasing member, or any other component
configured to allow the adjustment member 30230 to be moved in the
discrete increments as described herein.
[0327] In some embodiments, a medical injector can include a hub
configured to allow adjustment of a length of a needle inserted
into a target tissue. For example, FIGS. 92A and 92 B show a
portion of a medical injector 31000 that includes a housing 31110,
a hub 31270, and a needle 31240, according to an embodiment. The
needle 31240 is fixedly coupled to a distal end of the housing
31110, for example, fluidically coupled with a medicament container
disposed within the housing 31110. The hub 31270 is coupled to a
distal end portion of the housing 31110 such that the distal end
portion can move within a passageway defined by the hub 31270.
Furthermore, the distal end portion of the hub 31270 can define a
curved surface configured to conform to a curved surface of a
target tissue, for example, an eye. The housing 31110 includes a
first ridge 31114a and a second ridge 31114b configured to be
matingly disposed within a groove 31272 defined on an inner surface
of the hub 31270. While shown as including two ridges, the housing
31110 can include any number of ridges disposed thereon for
example, 3, 4, 5, or even more. Furthermore, the hub 31270 can be
formed from a flexible material, for example, rubber, plastics,
polymers, or any other flexible material described herein. This can
enable the ridges 31114 from sliding out of the groove 31272 into
the channel defined by the hub 31270 by application of a force on
the housing 31110. In this manner, either the first groove 31114a
or the second groove 31114b can be mated with the groove 31272 to
adjust the length of the needle 31240.
[0328] For example, as shown in FIG. 92B, in a first configuration
the hub 31270 can be disposed on a conjunctiva of an eye, such that
the curved surface of the distal end portion of the hub 31270
conformally contacts the curved conjunctiva. In the first
configuration, the first ridge 31114a can be disposed in the groove
31272 such that a distal tip of the needle 31240 is not inserted
into the eye. A force can be exerted on the housing 31110 to
displace the housing 31110 within the channel defined by the hub
31270 while maintaining the curved surface of the hub 31270 in
contact with the conjunctiva. This can urge the medical injector
31000 into a second configuration in which the second ridge 31114b
is disposed within the groove 31272. The moving of the housing
31110 can also urge the needle 31240 to move within the channel
defined by the hub 31270 until a distal tip of the needle 31240
pierces the eye. The distal tip of the needle 31240 can continue
travelling into the eye tissue until the second ridge 31114b is
disposed in the groove 31272. In some embodiments, the distal tip
of the needle 31240 can be disposed within a target region, for
example, the SCS in the second configuration. In some embodiments,
the distal tip of the needle 31240 can be disposed near but not
within the target region, for example, the SCS of the eye. In such
embodiments, the user can increase the force on the housing 31110
to insert the distal tip of the needle 31240 further into the eye,
for example, by a flexing of the sidewalls of the hub, such that
the distal tip of the needle 31240 can be disposed within the
target region (e.g., the SCS) of the target tissue.
[0329] In some embodiments, a medical injector can include a hub
configured to contact an outer surface of the target tissue and
flex or bend to allow a needle included in the medical injector to
be inserted into the target tissue. For example, FIG. 93A shows a
perspective view of a portion of a medical injector 32000. The
medical injector includes a hub 32270, a medicament container 32310
and needle 32240 that can be fluidically coupled to a medicament
container included in the medical injector 32000. The hub 33270 is
coupled to a distal end portion of the medicament container 32310.
The hub 32270 has a hemispherical or a semi-hemispherical shape and
defines a region therewithin. The hub 32270 is configured to be
disposed on the distal end portion of the housing 32110 such that
the needle 32240 is disposed within the region defined by the hub
32270. A distal end surface of the hub 32240 is configured to
contact an outer surface of a target tissue, for example, the
conjunctiva of an eye. Furthermore, the hub 32270 can be formed
from a flexible material, for example, rubber, plastic, polymers,
silicone, or any flexible material described herein or a
combination thereof. The hub 32270 is configured to flex or bend,
for example, by application of a force on the medicament container
32110. The bending or otherwise flexing can reduce the distance
between a distal tip of the needle 32240 and the target tissue,
such that the distal tip of the needle 32240 can be disposed within
the target tissue.
[0330] For example, FIGS. 93B and 93C show the medical injector
32000 in a first configuration and a second configuration,
respectively. In the first configuration, the distal end surface of
the hub 32270 is disposed on a target tissue, for example, the
conjunctiva of the eye such that a distal tip of the needle 32240
is distal from the outer surface of the target tissue. Said another
way, in the first configuration no force is exerted on the hub
32270 such that the hub 32270 is not bent, and the needle 32240 is
not inserted into the target tissue. In the second configuration, a
force can be applied on the medicament container 32310, or any
other portion of the medical injector 32000 such that the hub
flexes or otherwise bends reducing the distance between the distal
tip of the needle 32240 and the outer surface of the target tissue.
The force can be maintained until the distal tip of the needle
pierces target tissue and is disposed within a target tissue (e.g.,
the SCS) of the target tissue (e.g., an eye).
[0331] In some embodiments, a medical injector can include a
puncture member included in a medical injector can be configured to
sense light to determine the depth of insertion of the puncture
member. For example, FIGS. 94A and 94B show a portion of a puncture
member 32240 that can be included in a medical injector, for
example, the medical injector 100, 1000, 2000, or any other medical
injector described herein, in a first configuration and a second
configuration, respectively, according to an embodiment. The
puncture member 32240 can be configured to communicate light from
the target tissue to a light sensor, for example, a photodiode
included in the medical injector. The puncture member 32240 can be
formed from any suitable optically transparent material, for
example, an optical fiber. A distal end of the optical fiber can be
beveled or otherwise formed into a sharp tip to pierce a target
tissue. Furthermore, the distal tip can be optically transparent
such that the puncture member can communicate light from the target
tissue to the light sensor. The presence, absence, or otherwise
amount of light communicated by the puncture member 32240 to the
sensor can be used to determine the insertion depth and thereby,
the region of the target tissue in which the distal end of the
puncture member 32240 is disposed.
[0332] For example, in the first configuration shown in FIG. 94A,
the distal end of the puncture member 32240 can be disposed in the
sclera S of an eye. The sclera S is opaque so no light is
communicated from the puncture member 32240 to the light sensor. In
the second configuration, the distal tip of the puncture member
32240 is inserted deeper into the ocular tissue until at least a
portion of the distal tip is disposed within the suprachoroidal
space SCS which can be the target region for delivering a
medicament. Since the suprachoroidal space SCS is transparent,
light entering the eye and impinging on the retina R also
penetrates into the suprachoroidal space SCS. The light can be
communicated from the distal tip of the puncture member 32240 to
the light sensor included in the medical injector thus confirming
that the distal tip of the puncture member 32240 is indeed disposed
in the target region of the eye. In some embodiments, the medical
injector that includes the puncture member 32240 can alert a user
that the distal tip of the puncture member 32240 is disposed within
the suprachoroidal space SCS using an audible alert (e.g., a beep,
an alarm, etc.), a haptic alert (e.g., vibrations, or minor
electric current), or a visible alert (e.g., a light such as, for
example, an LED light, or a visual message). Thus, a user can
initiate delivery of the medicament through the puncture member
32240 only when the distal tip of the puncture member 32240 is
within the suprachoroidal space SCS.
[0333] In some embodiments, a kit that includes a medical injector
for delivering a medicament to a target region of a target tissue
can include all or parts of the concepts described herein. For
example, in some embodiments, a kit can include a medical injector
(e.g., the medical injector 10, 1000, 2000, 3000, 21000, or any
other medical injector described herein), a transfer assembly that
can include, for example, an extraction member (e.g., the
extraction member 21280), an injection assist housing (e.g., the
injection assembly 2100 or any other injection assembly described
herein), a needle adjustment mechanism (e.g., the needle assembly
3200, or any other needle assembly described herein), a container
or vial of a substance, for example a medicament or any other
substance described herein, replacement needles and/or hubs, one or
more speculums, swabs, wipes, anti-biotic ointments, eye drops, or
any other device or apparatus configured to facilitate delivery of
the medicament to the target tissue, for example, the eye.
[0334] For example, FIG. 95 shows a speculum 33400 that can be
included in a kit that includes a medical injector 33000, according
to an embodiment. The medical injector 33000 can be substantially
similar to the medical injector 100, 1000, 2000, 3000, or any other
medical injector described herein. The speculum 33400 can be
configured to be placed on an outer surface of the conjunctiva of
the eye and open the eye lids of a patient. In this manner, the
speculum 33400 can facilitate access to the surface of the eye such
that the medical injector can be used to deliver a medicament to a
target tissue of the eye, for example, the SCS. The speculum 33400
can include an ergonomic handle, which can be comfortably gripped
by a user during use. The speculum 33400 also includes a cavity
33410 configured to receive at least a portion of the medical
injector 33000. In use, a user can disposed the speculum 33400 on
the conjunctiva of the eye such that the eyelids are forced open.
Furthermore, the cavity 33410 can be located on a target portion of
the eye. The user can dispose a distal end portion of the medical
injector 33000 into the cavity 33410 and deliver the medicament to
a target region (e.g., the SCS) of the eye. In some embodiments,
the cavity 33410 can be oriented such that a center line of a
delivery passageway of the medical injector 33000 and a surface
line tangent of to the target surface of the eye (e.g., the
conjunctiva, the sclera, and/or the suprachoroidal space SCS)
defines an angle of entry of between about 75 degrees and about 105
degrees, for example, about 90 degrees. Moreover, the cavity 33410
can be configured to prevent lateral movement of the medical
injector such that the centerline of the needle remains
substantially normal to the target surface during delivery of the
medicament.
[0335] In some embodiments, a speculum can include markings to
enable measurement of a size, radius, diameter or otherwise
cross-section of an eye. For example, FIG. 96 shows a speculum
34400 that can be included in a kit that includes a medical
injector (e.g., the medical injector 100, 1000, 2000, 3000, or any
other medical injector described herein. The speculum 34400
includes two arms. A distal end portion of the each of the arms is
configured to disposed on the first and the second eyelid. The
distal end portions can be moved apart to open the eyelids and
allow access to the surface of the eye. The distal portions also
include a plurality of markings or indicia. The markings can be
used to measure a size of the eye, for example, a size, radius,
diameter, or otherwise, cross section of the eye. Information on
the size of the eye can be used to determine, for example, the
thickness of individual layers, for example, the sclera and the
SCS. In this manner, a user can predict how far a needle has to be
penetrated into the eye such that a distal tip of the needle is
disposed in a target region (e.g., the SCS) of the eye.
[0336] In some embodiments, a speculum can include mounting
features to mount a medical injector. Referring now to FIG. 97, a
speculum 35400 includes a set of arms configured to open the
eyelids of a patient and provide access to the eye. The speculum
35400 includes a mount 35410 configured to receive mounting member
35114 included in a medical injector 35000. The medical injector
35000 can be substantially similar to the medical injector 100,
1000, 2000, 3000, or any other medicament container described
herein. The mounting member 35410 can include any suitable mounting
features, for example, a magnet, threads, snap-fit mechanism,
friction-fit mechanism, or any other suitable mounting mechanism
configured to mount the medical injector 35000 via the mounting
member 35114. In some embodiments, the mount 35114 can include a
magnet. In such embodiments, the mounting member 35114 can be
formed from a magnetic material, for example, a ferrous material,
such that mounting member 35114 can be coupled to the mount 35410
via magnetic coupling. In use, the speculum 35400 can be disposed
on an eye of a patient. Each arm of the speculum 35400 can be used
to open an eyelid of the patient to allow access to the eye. The
medical injector 35000 can be mounted on the mount 35410 via the
mounting feature 35114, for example, via magnetic coupling.
Mounting the medical injector 35000 can prevent inadvertent
movements of the medical injector 34000 during medicament injection
thereby minimizing the risk of injury to the eye. Furthermore, the
speculum 35400 can reduce the risk of an error by the user by
positioning the medical injector 35000 for the user so that the
user can focus on delivering the medicament to a target region of
the eye instead of correctly positioning the medical injector 35000
on the eye.
[0337] In some embodiments, a speculum can include a single piece
speculum. For example, FIG. 98A shows a single piece speculum 36400
configured to be disposed on a surface of an eye and open the
eyelids of the patient. The speculum 36400 defines a cavity 36410
configured to receive at least a portion of a medical injector, for
example, the medical injector 33000 or any other medical injector
described herein. For example, as shown in FIG. 98B, the speculum
36400 can be disposed on the eye such that the cavity 36410 is
disposed over a target location of the eye. At least a portion of
the medical injector 33000 is then disposed in the cavity 36410
thereby positioning the medical injector 33000 over the target
location of the eye for delivering the medicament to a target
region within the target location.
[0338] FIG. 99 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method 500 for
delivering a medicament to a target tissue using a medical injector
that includes a hub having a convex distal end surface (e.g., the
hub 7270, 8270, or the hub 9720), coupled thereto. The medical
injector can include any of the medical injectors described herein.
The method includes inserting a distal end portion of a needle of a
medical injector into a target tissue to define a delivery
passageway within the target tissue 502. The needle can include any
suitable puncture member, for example, a microneedle (e.g., a 27
gauge needle, a 30 gauge needle, or even smaller), or any other
puncture member described herein. In some embodiments, the target
tissue can be ocular tissue including the conjunctiva, the sclera,
and the suprachoroidal space. In some embodiments, the inserting is
performed such that centerline of the delivery passageway and a
surface line tangent to the target surface defines an angle of
entry of between about 75 degrees and about 105 degrees, for
example, about 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the inserting can
be performed such that the centerline of the needle is
substantially normal to the target surface. This can, for example,
minimize tissue damage and provide the shortest path for a distal
tip of the needle to reach a target region of the target tissue
(e.g., the SCS). Next, the convex distal end surface of the hub is
placed in contact with a target surface of the target tissue to
fluidically isolate the delivery passageway 504. In some
embodiments, the placing can include deforming the target surface.
For example, the distal end surface of the hub can include a
sealing portion configured to contact and define a substantially
fluid-tight seal with the target surface, for example, the
conjunctiva of the eye (e.g., as defined with respect to the
sealing portion 7277 included in the hub 7270). In such
embodiments, the sealing portion can be substantially symmetrical
around a centerline of the needle. In some embodiments, the sealing
portion can be convex. In some embodiments, only a portion of the
sealing portion can be configured to contact the target surface of
the target tissue to form the substantially fluid-tight seal. For
example, a circular band of the sealing portion can contact the
target surface and form the substantially fluid tight seal
surrounding the centerline of the needle.
[0339] The method 500 further includes conveying, after the
placing, a substance into the target tissue via the needle 506. In
some embodiments, the substance can include a medicament such as,
for example, a VEGF, a VEGF inhibitor, or a combination thereof.
The substance can be disposed within an internal volume of a
medicament container included in the medical injector. An actuation
rod can be included in the medical injector, which can be
configured to be engaged by a user to fluidically communicate the
substance from the medicament container to the target tissue via
the needle. The medicament container and the actuation rod can be
substantially similar to the medicament container and/or the
actuation rod included in the system 100, 1000, 2000, 3000, or any
other system or apparatus described herein. In some embodiments,
the target tissue can be an eye, and the target surface can be a
conjunctiva of the eye. In such embodiments, the delivery
passageway can extend through a sclera of the eye such that the
conveying includes conveying the substance into at least one of a
suprachoroidal space or a lower portion of the sclera.
[0340] In some embodiments, the method 500 can further include
adjusting, before the conveying, a length of the needle extending
from the distal end surface of the hub. For example, the medical
injector can include a needle assembly, for example, the needle
assembly 3200 or any other needle assembly described herein. The
needle assembly can be used to adjust the length of the needle
extending from the distal end surface of the hub until a distal tip
of the needle is disposed within a target region, for example, the
SCS of the eye. The substance, for example, as medicament as
described herein, can then be conveyed to the target region of the
eye.
[0341] The embodiments described herein can be formed or
constructed of one or more biocompatible materials. Examples of
suitable biocompatible materials include metals, glasses, ceramics,
or polymers. Examples of suitable metals include pharmaceutical
grade stainless steel, gold, titanium, nickel, iron, platinum, tin,
chromium, copper, and alloys thereof. The polymer may be
biodegradable or non-biodegradable. Examples of suitable
biodegradable polymers include polylactides, polyglycolides,
polylactide-co-glycolides (PLGA), polyanhydrides, polyorthoesters,
polyetheresters, polycaprolactones, polyesteramides, poly(butyric
acid), poly(valeric acid), polyurethanes and copolymers and blends
thereof. Examples of non-biodegradable polymers include nylons,
polyesters, polycarbonates, polyacrylates, polymers of
ethylene-vinyl acetates and other acyl substituted cellulose
acetates, non-degradable polyurethanes, polystyrenes, polyvinyl
chloride, polyvinyl fluoride, poly(vinyl imidazole),
chlorosulphonate polyolefins, polyethylene oxide, blends and
copolymers thereof.
[0342] The microneedles described herein can be fabricated by a
variety of methods. For example, in some embodiments, the hollow
microneedle is fabricated using a laser or similar optical energy
source. In one example, a microcannula may be cut using a laser to
represent the desired microneedle length. The laser may also be use
to shape single or multiple tip openings. Single or multiple cuts
may be performed on a single microcannula to shape the desired
microneedle structure. In one example, the microcannula may be made
of metal such as stainless steel and cut using a laser with a
wavelength in the infrared region of the light spectrum (0.7-300
.mu.m). Further refinement may be performed using metal
electropolishing techniques familiar to those in the field. In
another embodiment, the microneedle length and optional bevel is
formed by a physical grinding process, which for example may
include grinding a metal cannula against a moving abrasive surface.
The fabrication process may further include precision grinding,
micro-bead jet blasting and ultrasonic cleaning to form the shape
of the desired precise tip of the microneedle.
[0343] A wide range of ocular diseases and disorders may be treated
by the methods and devices described herein. Non-limiting examples
of ocular diseases include uveitis, glaucoma, diabetic macular
edema or retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinoblastoma, and
genetic diseases. The methods described herein are particularly
useful for the local delivery of drugs that need to be administered
to the posterior region of the eye, for example the retinochoroidal
tissue, macula, and optic nerve in the posterior segment of the
eye. In one embodiment, the delivery methods and devices described
herein may be used in gene-based therapy applications. For example,
the methods may administer a fluid drug formulation into the
suprachoroidal space to deliver select DNA, RNA, or
oligonucleotides to targeted ocular tissues.
[0344] The microneedles can be used to target delivery to specific
tissues or regions within the eye or in neighboring tissue. In
various embodiments, the methods may be designed for drug delivery
specifically to the sclera, the choroid, the Bruch's membrane, the
retinal pigment epithelium, the subretinal space, the retina, the
macula, the optic disk, the optic nerve, the ciliary body, the
trabecular meshwork, the aqueous humor, the vitreous humor, and
other ocular tissue or neighboring tissue in need of treatment.
[0345] A wide range of drugs may be formulated for delivery to
ocular tissues using the present systems and devices described
herein. Moreover, any of the delivery devices and/or methods
described herein can involve, include and/or contain any of the
drugs described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the
medicament containment chamber 1310, 2310, 3310, or any other
medicament containment chamber can contain any of the drugs and/or
formulations described herein. As used herein, the term "drug"
refers to any prophylactic, therapeutic, or diagnostic agent (e.g.,
a contrast agent). The drug may be selected from suitable proteins,
peptides and fragments thereof, which can be naturally occurring,
synthesized or recombinantly produced. Representative examples of
types of drugs for delivery to ocular tissues include antibodies,
anti-viral agents, chemotherapeutic agents (e.g., topoisomerase
inhibitors), analgesics, anesthetics, aptamers, antihistamines,
anti-inflammatory agents, and anti-neoplastic agents. In one
embodiment, the drug is triamcinolone or triamcinolone
acetonide.
[0346] The term "antibody" is intended to refer broadly to any
immunologic binding agent such as IgG, IgM, IgA, IgD and IgE. An
antibody can be monoclonal or polyclonal, and in one embodiment, is
a humanized antibody. The term "antibody" is also used to refer to
any antibody-like molecule that has an antigen binding region, and
includes antibody fragments such as Fab', Fab, F(ab').sub.2, single
domain antibodies (DABs), Fv, scFv (single chain Fv), and
engineering multivalent antibody fragments such as dibodies,
tribodies and multibodies. The techniques for preparing and using
various antibody-based constructs and fragments are well known in
the art (see, e.g., Antibodies: A Laboratory Manual, Cold Spring
Harbor Laboratory, 1988; incorporated herein by reference).
[0347] Non-limiting examples of specific drugs and classes of drugs
include .beta.-adrenoceptor antagonists (e.g., carteolol,
cetamolol, betaxolol, levobunolol, metipranolol, timolol), miotics
(e.g., pilocarpine, carbachol, physostigmine), sympathomimetics
(e.g., adrenaline, dipivefrine), carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
(e.g., acetazolamide, dorzolamide), topoisomerase inhibitors (e.g.,
topotecan, irinotecan, camptothecin, lamellarin D, etoposide,
teniposide, doxorubicin, mitoxantrone, amsacrine), prostaglandins,
anti-microbial compounds, including anti-bacterials and
anti-fungals (e.g., chloramphenicol, chlortetracycline,
ciprofloxacin, framycetin, fusidic acid, gentamicin, neomycin,
norfloxacin, ofloxacin, polymyxin, propamidine, tetracycline,
tobramycin, quinolines), anti-viral compounds (e.g., acyclovir,
cidofovir, idoxuridine, interferons), aldose reductase inhibitors,
anti-inflammatory and/or anti-allergy compounds (e.g., steroidal
compounds such as betamethasone, clobetasone, dexamethasone,
fluorometholone, hydrocortisone, prednisolone and non-steroidal
compounds such as antazoline, bromfenac, diclofenac, indomethacin,
lodoxamide, saprofen, sodium cromoglycate), artificial tear/dry eye
therapies, local anesthetics (e.g., amethocaine, lignocaine,
oxbuprocaine, proxymetacaine), cyclosporine, diclofenac,
urogastrone and growth factors such as epidermal growth factor,
mydriatics and cycloplegics, mitomycin C, and collagenase
inhibitors and treatments of age-related macular degeneration such
as pegagtanib sodium, ranibizumab, aflibercept and bevacizumab.
[0348] In one embodiment, the drug is an integrin antagonist, a
selectin antagonist, an adhesion molecule antagonist (e.g.,
intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, ICAM-2, ICAM-3, platelet
endothelial adhesion molecule (PCAM), vascular cell adhesion
molecule (VCAM)), a leukocyte adhesion-inducing cytokine or growth
factor antagonist (e.g., tumor necrosis factor-.alpha.
(TNF-.alpha.), interleukin-1.beta. (IL-1.beta.), monocyte
chemotatic protein-1 (MCP-1), or a vascular endothelial growth
factor (VEGF)). In some embodiments, a vascular endothelial growth
factor (VEGF) inhibitor is administered with one of the
microneedles described herein. In some embodiments, two drugs are
delivered by the methods described herein. The compounds may be
administered in one formulation, or administered serially, in two
separate formulations. For example, both a VEGF inhibitor and VEGF
are provided. In some embodiments, the VEGF inhibitor is an
antibody, for example a humanized monoclonal antibody. In further
embodiments, the VEGF antibody is bevacizumab. In another
embodiment, the VEGF inhibitor is ranibizumab, aflibercept or
pegaptanib. In still other embodiments, the devices and methods
described herein can be used to deliver one or more of the
following VEGF antagonists: AL8326, 2C3 antibody, AT001 antibody,
HyBEV, bevacizumab (Avastin), ANG3070, APX003 antibody, APX004
antibody, ponatinib (AP24534), BDM-E, VGX100 antibody (VGX100
CIRCADIAN), VGX200 (c-fos induced growth factor monoclonal
antibody), VGX300, COSMIX, DLX903/1008 antibody, ENMD2076, Sutent
(sunitinib malate), INDUS815C, R84 antibody, KDO19, NM3, allogenic
mesenchymal precursor cells combined with an anti-VEGF agent or
antibody, MGCD265, MG516, VEGF-Receptor kinase inhibitors, MP0260,
NT503, anti-DLL4/VEGF bispecific antibody, PAN90806, Palomid 529,
BD0801 antibody, XV615, lucitanib (AL3810, E3810), AMG706
(motesanib diphosphate), AAV2-sFLT01, soluble Flt1 receptor,
Cediranib (Recentin), AV-951 (Tivozanib, KRN-951), Stivarga
(regorafenib), Volasertib (BI6727), CEP11981, KH903, Lenvatinib
(E7080), terameprocol (EM1421), ranibizumab (Lucentis), Votrient
(pazopanib hydrochloride), PF00337210, PRS050, SP01 (curcumin),
Carboxyamidotriazole orotate, hydroxychloroquine, linifanib
(ABT869, RG3635), Iluvien (fluocinolone acetonide), ALG1001,
AGN150998, DARPin MP0112, AMG386, ponatinib (AP24534), AVA101,
Vargatef (nintedanib), BMS690514, KH902, golvatinib (E7050),
Afinitor (everolimus), Dovitinib lactate (TKI258, CHIR258), ORA101,
ORA102, Axitinib (Inlyta, AG013736), Plitidepsin (Aplidin),
Lenvatinib mesylate, PTC299, aflibercept (Zaltrap, Eylea),
pegaptanib sodium (Macugen, LI900015), Visudyne (verteporfin),
bucillamine (Rimatil, Lamin, Brimani, Lamit, Boomiq), R3 antibody,
AT001/r84 antibody, troponin (BLS0597), EG3306, vatalanib (PTK787),
Bmab100, GSK2136773, Anti-VEGFR Alterase, Avila, CEP7055, CLT009,
ESBA903, HuMax-VEGF antibody, GW654652, HMPL010, GEM220, HYB676,
JNJ17029259, TAK593, XtendVEGF antibody, Nova21012, Nova21013,
CP564959, Smart Anti-VEGF antibody, AG028262, AG13958, CVX241,
SU14813, PRS055, PG501, PG545, PTI101, TG100948, ICS283, XL647,
enzastaurin hydrochloride (LY317615), BC194, quinolines,
COT601M06.1, COT604M06.2, MabionVEGF, SIR-Spheres coupled to
anti-VEGF or VEGF-R antibody, Apatinib (YN968D1), and AL3818. In
addition, delivery of a VEGF inhibitor or VEGF antagonist using the
microneedle devices and methods disclosed herein may be combined
with one or more agents listed herein or with other agents known in
the art.
[0349] In one embodiment, delivery of a VEGF antagonist to the
suprachoroidal space of the eye using the devices and methods
disclosed herein is used to treat, prevent and/or ameliorate a
disease or disorder selected from leukemia, relapsed/refractory
leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, Acute myelogenous leukemia,
relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia, atopic dermatitis,
recurrent or metastatic carcinoma of the urothelium, advanced
urothelial carcinoma, blood disorders, myelofibrosis, brain tumor,
glioblastoma, glioma, meningioma, cancer, carcinomatous meningitis
(neoplastic meningitis), choroidal neovascularization (CNV),
subfoveal choroidal neovascularization, chronic lymphocytic
leukemia, chronic myelogenous leukemia, refractory chronic
myelogenous leukemia, colon cancer, colorectal cancer, degenerative
nerve diseases, Neurodegenerative diseases, diabetic macular edema,
visual Impairment due to diabetic macular edema, diabetic
retinopathy, dry eye syndrome (inflammation and corneal tissue
damage of dry Eye), endometrial cancer, eye diseases, ocular
diseases, ocular neovascularization, eye cancer, Neurofibromatosis
Type II, head and neck cancer, hematological malignancies, Kaposi's
Sarcoma, Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Lung cancer, macular
degeneration, age related macular degeneration, exudative
age-related macular degeneration, neovascular (wet) age-related
macular degeneration (AMD)), subfoveal Neovascular Age-Related
macular degeneration, macular edema, macular edema associated with
Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion, macular edema following retinal vein
occlusion, macular edema with Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO),
multiple myeloma, relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma, multiple
sclerosis, myopia, pathological myopia, neuroendocrine tumor,
carcinoid tumor, neuroendocrine tumor, non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma,
Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung cancer,
Non-Squamous Non-Small-Cell Lung cancer, Non-small-cell-lung
Adenocarcinoma, Squamous Non-Small-Cell Lung cancer, corneal graft
rejection, osteoarthritis, recurrent symptomatic malignant ascites,
peripheral T-cell lymphoma, androgen Independent Psoriasis,
pulmonary Fibrosis, Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, respiratory
diseases, retinal detachment, retinal disorders, retinitis
pigmentosa, retinal vein occlusion, branch retinal vein occlusion,
central retinal vein occlusion, rheumatoid arthritis, sarcoma,
alveolar soft part sarcoma, soft tissue sarcoma,
scleroderma/systemic sclerosis, solid tumors, refractory germ cell
tumors, thyroid cancer, differentiated or medullar thyroid cancer,
and West Syndrome (Infantile Spasm).
[0350] In certain embodiments, the drug delivered to the
suprachoroidal space using the devices and methods disclosed herein
is rapamycin (Sirolimus, Rapamune). In one embodiment, the devices
(e.g., microneedle devices) and methods disclosed herein are used
in conjunction with rapamycin to treat, prevent and/or ameliorate a
wide range of diseases or disorders including, but not limited to:
abdominal neoplasms, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, acute
coronary syndrome, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, acute myelocytic
leukemia, acute non-lymphoblastic leukemia, adenocarcinoma,
adenoma, adenomyoepithelioma, adnexal diseases, anaplastic
astrocytoma, anaplastic large cell lymphoma, anaplastic
plasmacytoma, anemia, angina pectoris, angioimmunoblastic
lymphadenopathy with dysproteinemia, angiomyolipoma, arterial
occlusive diseases, arteriosclerosis, astrocytoma, atherosclerosis,
autoimmune diseases, B-cell lymphomas, blood coagulation disorders,
blood protein disorders, bone cancer, bone marrow diseases, brain
diseases, brain neoplasms, breast beoplasms, bronchial neoplasms,
carcinoid syndrome, carcinoid Tumor, carcinoma, squamous cell
carcinoma, central nervous system diseases, central nervous system
neoplasms, choroid diseases, choroid plexus neoplasms, choroidal
neovascularization, choroiditis, chronic lymphocytic leukemia,
chronic myeloid leukemia, chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, chronic
myeloproliferative disorders, chronic neutrophilic leukemia, clear
cell renal cell carcinoma, colonic diseases, colonic neoplasms,
colorectal neoplasms, coronary artery disease, coronary disease,
coronary Occlusion, coronary restenosis, coronary stenosis,
coronary thrombosis, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, diabetes mellitus,
digestive system neoplasms, dry eye syndromes, ear diseases, edema,
endocrine gland neoplasms, endocrine system diseases, endometrial
neoplasms, Endometrial stromal tumors, Ewing's sarcoma, exanthema,
eye neoplasms, fibrosis, follicular lymphoma, gastrointestinal
diseases, gastrointestinal neoplasms, genital neoplasms,
glioblastoma, glioma, gliosarcoma, graft vs host disease,
hematologic diseases, hematologic neoplasms, hemorrhagic disorders,
hemostatic disorders, Hodgkin disease, Hodgkin lymphoma, homologous
wasting disease, immunoblastic lymphadenopathy, immunologic
deficiency syndromes, immunoproliferative disorders, infarction,
inflammation, intestinal diseases, intestinal neoplasms, ischemia,
kidney cancer, kidney diseases, kidney neoplasms, leukemia, B-Cell,
leukemia, lymphoid, liver cancer, liver diseases, lung diseases,
lymphatic diseases, lymphoblastic lymphoma, lymphoma, macular
degeneration, macular edema, melanoma, mouth neoplasms, multiple
myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes, myelofibrosis,
myeloproliferative disorders, neuroectodermal tumors,
neuroendocrine tumors, neuroepithelioma, neurofibroma, renal
cancer, respiratory tract diseases, retinal degeneration, retinal
diseases, retinal neoplasms, retinoblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma,
thoracic neoplasms, uveitis, vascular diseases, Waldenstrom
Macroglobulinemia, and wet macular degeneration. In addition,
delivery of rapamycin using the microneedle devices and methods
disclosed herein may be combined with one or more agents listed
herein or with other agents known in the art.
[0351] In one embodiment, the drug delivered to ocular tissue, for
example the sclera or suprachoroidal space, using the microneedle
devices and methods disclosed herein reduces, inhibits, prevents
and/or ameliorates inflammation. Examples of drugs that reduce,
inhibit, prevent and/or ameliorate inflammation include (but are
not limited to): 19AV Agonists, 19GJ agonists, 2MD Analogs, 4SC101,
4SC102, 57-57, 5-HT2 Receptor Antagonist, 64G12, A804598, A967079,
AAD2004, AB1010, AB224050, abatacept, Abegrin, Abevac, AbGn134,
AbGn168, Abki, ABN912, ABR215062, ABR224050, Abrammune, Abreva,
ABS15, ABS4, ABS6, ABT122, ABT325, ABT494, ABT874, ABT963, ABXIL8,
ABXRB2, AC430, Accenetra, Acdeam, ACE772, Acebid, Acebloc,
aceclofenac, acetaminophen, chlorzoxazone, serrapeptase, tizanidine
hydrochloride, betadex, Aceclogesic Plus, Aceclon, Acecloren,
Aceclorism, acecrona, Aceffein, acemetacin, Acenac, Acenterine,
Acetal-SP, ibuprofen, Acetyl-G, acetylsalicylate dl-lysine,
acetylsalicylic acid, Acicot, Acifine, Acik, Aclocen, Acloflam-P,
Aclomore, Aclon, A-CQ, ACS15, actarit, Actemra, Acthelea
liofilizado, Actifast, Actimab-B, Actiquim, Actirin, Actis PLUS,
activated leukocyte cell adhesion molecule antibody, Acular X,
AD452, adalimumab, ADAMTS5 Inhibitor, ADC1001, Adco-Diclofenac,
Adco-Indomethacin, Adco-Meloxicam, Adco-Naproxen, Adco-Piroxicam,
Adcort, Adco-Sulindac, adenosine triphosphate disodium,
AdenosineA2a Receptor Agonist, Adimod, Adinos, Adioct, Adiodol,
Adipoplus, adipose derived stem and/or regenerative cells, Adizen,
Adpep, Advacan, Advagraf, Advel, Adwiflam, AEB071, Aental, Afenac,
Affen Plus, Afiancen, Afinitor, Aflamin, Aflazacort, Aflogen,
Afloxan, AFM15, AFM16, AFM17, AFM23, Afpred-Dexa, AFX200, AG011,
Agafen, aganirsen, AGI1096, Agidex, AGS010, Agudol, A-Hydrocort,
AIK1, AIN457, Airtal, AIT110, AJM300, ajulemic acid, AK106,
AL-24-2A1, AL4-1A1, Ala Cort, Alanz, Albumin immune-globulin,
alclometasone dipropionate, ALD518, aldesleukin, Aldoderma,
alefacept, alemtuzumab, Alequel, Alergolon, Alergosone, Aletraxon,
Alfenac, Algason, Algin vek coat, Algioflex, Algirex, Algivin Plus,
alicaforsen sodium, Alin, Alinia, Aliviodol, Aliviosin, alkaline
phosphatase, ALKS6931, allantoin, Allbupen, Allmol, Allochrysine,
allogeneic endothelial cells, allogeneic mesenchymal precursor
cells, allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells, alminoprofen, alpha 1
antitrypsin, Alpha 7 nicotinic agonists, alpha amylase, alpha
chymotrypsin, alpha fetoprotein, alpha linolenic acid,
Alpha-1-antitrypsin, Alpha2Beta1 Integrin Inhibitors, Alphacort,
Alphafen, alpha-hexidine, alpha-trypsin, Alphintern, Alpinamed
mobility omega 3, Alpoxen, AL-Rev1, Alterase, ALX0061, ALX0761,
ALXN1007, ALXN1102, AM3840, AM3876, AMAB, AMAP102, Amason, Ambene,
AmbezimG, amcinonide, AME133v, Amecin, Ameloteks, A-Methapred,
Amevive, AMG108, AMG139, AMG162, AMG181, AMG191, AMG220, AMG623,
AMG674, AMG714, AMG719, AMG729, AMG827, Amidol, amifampridine
phosphate, Amifenac, Amimethacin, amiprilose hydrochloride,
Amiprofen, Ammophos, Amoflam, AMP110, Ampikyy, Ampion, ampiroxicam,
amtolmetin guacil, AMX256, AN6415, ANA004, ANA506, Anabu, Anacen,
Anaflam, Anaflex ACI, Anaida, anakinra, Analgen Artritis, Anapan,
Anaprox, Anavan, Anax, Anco, andrographis, Aneol, Anergix,
Anervax.RA, Anflene, ANG797, Anilixin, Anmerushin, Annexin 1
peptides, annexin A5, Anodyne, Ansaid, Anspirin, Antarene, Anti
BST2 antibody, Anti C5a MAb, Anti ILT7 antibody, Anti VLA1
antibody, Anti-alpha11 antibody, Anti-CD4 802-2, Anti-CD86
Monoclonal Antibody, Anti-chemokine, Anti-DC-SIGN, Anti-HMGB-1 MAb,
Anti-IL-18 Mab, Anti-IL-1R MAb, Anti-IL-1R MAb, Anti-IL23 BRISTOL,
Anti-inflammatory Peptides, Anti-interleukin 1Beta antibody,
Anti-LIGHT antibody, Anti-LIGHT antibody, Anti-MIF Antibody,
Anti-MIF Antibody, Anti-miR181a, antioxidant inflammation
modulators, Antiphlamine, AntiRAGE MAb, antithrombin III,
Anti-TIRC-7 MAb, Anusol-HC, Anyfen, AP105, AP1089, AP1189, AP401,
AP501, apazone, APD334, Apentac, APG103, Apidone, apilimod
mesylate, Apitac, Apitoxin, Apizel, APN Inhibitor,
apo-Azathioprine, Apo-Dexamethasone, ApoE mimetics, ApoFasL,
apo-Indomethacin, apo-mefenamic, apo-methotrexate, apo-nabumetone,
Apo-Napro-NA, apo-Naproxen, aponidin, apo-Phenylbutazone,
apo-Piroxicam, apo-Sulin, Apo-Tenoxicam, apo-Tiaprofenic, Apranax,
apremilast, apricoxib, Aprofen, Aprose, Aproxen, APX001 antibody,
APX007 antibody, APY0201, AqvoDex, AQX108, AQX1125, AQX131135,
AQX140, AQX150, AQX200, AQX356, AQXMN100, AQXMN106, ARA290, Arava,
Arcalyst, Arcoxia, Arechin, Arflur, ARG098, ARG301, arginine
aescin, arginine deiminase (pegylated), ARGX109 antibody, ARGX110,
Arheuma, Aristocort, Aristospan, Ark-AP, ARN4026, Arofen, Aroff EZ,
Arolef, Arotal, Arpibru, Arpimune, Arpu Shuangxin, ARQ101, Arrestin
SP, Arrox, ARRY162, ARRY371797, ARRY614, ARRY872, ART621, Artamin,
Arthfree, Artho Tech, Arthrexin, Arthrispray, Arthrotec, Arthrovas,
Artifit, Artigo, Artin, Artinor, Artisid, Artoflex, Artren
Hipergel, Artridol, Artrilase, Artrocaptin, Artrodiet, Artrofen,
Artropan, Artrosil, Artrosilene, Artrotin, Artrox, Artyflam,
Arzerra, AS604850, AS605858, Asacol, ASA-Grindeks, Asazipam,
Aseclo, ASF1096, ASF1096, ASK8007, ASKP1240, ASLAN003, Asmo ID,
Asonep, ASP015K, ASP2408, ASP2409, Aspagin, Aspeol, Aspicam,
Aspirimex, aspirin, AST120, astaxanthin, AstroCort, Aszes, AT002
antibody, AT007, AT008 antibody, AT008 antibody, AT010, AT1001,
atacicept, Ataspin, Atepadene, Atgam, ATG-Fresenius, Athrofen,
ATI003, atiprimod, ATL1222, ATN103, ATN192, ATR107, Atri, Atrmin,
Atrosab antibody, ATX3105, AU801, auranofin, Aurobin, Auropan,
Aurothio, aurotioprol, autologous adipose derived regenerative
cells, Autonec, Avandia, AVE9897, AVE9940, Avelox, Avent, AVI3378,
Avloquin, AVP13546, AVP13748, AVP28225, AVX002, Axcel Diclofenac,
Axcel Papain, Axen, AZ17, AZ175, Azacortid, AZA-DR, Azafrine,
Azamun, Azanin, Azap, Azapin, Azapren, Azaprin, Azaram, Azasan,
azathioprine, AZD0275, AZD0902, AZD2315, AZD5672, AZD6703, AZD7140,
AZD8309, AZD8566, AZD9056, Azet, Azintrel, azithromycin, Az-od,
Azofit, Azolid, Azoran, Azulene, Azulfidine, Azulfin, B1
antagonists, Baclonet, BAF312, BAFF Inhibitor, Bages, Baily S.P.,
Baleston, Balsolone, baminercept alfa, bardoxolone methyl,
baricitinib, Barotase, Basecam, basiliximab, Baxmune, Baxo,
BAY869766, BB2827, BCX34, BCX4208, Becfine, Beclate-C, Beclate-N,
Beclolab Q, beclomethasone dipropionate, Beclorhin, Becmet-CG,
Begita, Begti, belatacept, belimumab, Belosalic, Bemetson, Ben,
Benevat, Benexam, Benflogin, Benisan, Benlysta, Benlysta,
benorilate, Benoson, benoxaprofen, Bentol, benzydamine
hydrochloride, Benzymin, Beofenac, Berafen, Berinert, Berlofen,
Bertanel, Bestamine, Bestofen, Beta Nicip, Betacort, Betacorten G,
Betafoam, beta-glucan, Betalar, Beta-M, Betamed, Betamesol,
betamethasone, betamethasone dipropionate, betamethasone sodium,
betamethasone sodium phosphate, betamethasone valerate, Betane,
Betanex, Betapanthen, Betapar, Betapred, Betason, Betasonate,
Betasone, Betatrinta, Betaval, Betazon, Betazone, Betesil,
Betnecort, Betnesol, Betnovate, Bextra, BFPC13, BFPC18, BFPC21,
BFPT6864, BG12, BG9924, BI695500, BI695501, BIA12, Big-Joint-D,
BIIB023 antibody, Bi-ksikam, Bingo, BioBee, Bio-Cartilage,
Bio-C-Sinkki, Biodexone, Biofenac, Bioreucam, Biosone, Biosporin,
BIRB796, Bitnoval, Bitvio, Bivigam, BKT140, BKTP46, BL2030, BL3030,
BL4020, BL6040, BL7060, BLI1300, blisibimod, Blokium B12, Blokium
Gesic, Blokium, BMS066, BMS345541, BMS470539, BMS561392, BMS566419,
BMS582949, BMS587101, BMS817399, BMS936557, BMS945429, BMS-A,
BN006, BN007, BNP166, Bonacort, Bonas, bone marrow stromal cell
antigen 2 antibody, Bonflex, Bonifen, Boomiq, Borbit, Bosong,
BR02001, BR3-FC, Bradykinin B1 Receptor Antagonist, Bredinin,
Brexecam, Brexin, Brexodin, briakinumab, Brimani, briobacept,
Bristaflam, Britten, Broben, brodalumab, Broen-C, bromelains,
Bromelin, Bronax, Bropain, Brosiral, Bruace, Brufadol, Brufen,
Brugel, Brukil, Brusil, BT061, BTI9, BTK kinase inhibitors, BTT1023
antibody, BTT1507, bucillamine, Bucillate, Buco Reigis, bucolome,
Budenofalk, budesonide, Budex, Bufect, Bufencon, Bukwang
Ketoprofen, Bunide, Bunofen, Busilvex, busulfan, Busulfex,
Busulipo, Butartrol, Butarut B12, Butasona, Butazolidin, Butesone,
Butidiona, BVX10, BXL628, BYM338, B-Zone, C1 esterase inhibitor,
C243, c4462, c5997, C5aQb, c7198, c9101, C9709, c9787, CAB101,
cadherin 11 antibody, caerulomycin A, CAL263, Calcort, Calmatel,
CAM3001, Camelid Antibodies, Camlox, Camola, Campath, Camrox,
Camtenam, canakinumab, candida albicans antigen, Candin,
cannabidiol, CAP1.1, CAP1.2, CAP2.1, CAP2.2, CAP3.1, CAP3.2,
Careram, Carimune, Cariodent, Cartifix, CartiJoint, Cartilago,
Cartisafe-DN, Cartishine, Cartivit, Cartril-S, Carudol, CaspaCIDe,
CaspaCIDe, Casyn, CAT1004, CAT1902, CAT2200, Cataflam, Cathepsin S
inhibitor, Catlep, CB0114, CB2 agonist, CC0478765, CC10004,
CC10015, CC1088, CC11050, CC13097, CC15965, CC16057, CC220, CC292,
CC401, CC5048, CC509, CC7085, CC930, CCR1 Antagonist, CCR6
Inhibitor, CCR7 Antagonist, CCRL2 antagonist, CCX025, CCX354,
CCX634, CD Diclofenac, CD102, CD103 Antibody, CD103 Antibody, CD137
antibody, CD16 antibody, CD18 antibody, CD19 antibody, CD1d
Antibody, CD20 antibody, CD200Fc, CD209 antibody, CD24, CD3
antibody, CD30 antibody, CD32A antibody, CD32B antibody, CD4
antibody, CD40 ligand, CD44 antibody, CD64 antibody, CDC839,
CDC998, CDIM4, CDIM9, CDK9-Inhibitor, CDP146, CDP323, CDP484,
CDP6038, CDP870, CDX1135, CDX301, CE224535, Ceanel, Cebedex,
Cebutid, Ceclonac, Ceex, CEL2000, Celact, Celbexx, Celcox,
Celebiox, Celebrex, Celebrin, Celecox, celecoxib, Celedol,
Celestone, Celevex, Celex, CELG4, Cell adhesion molecule
antagonists, CellCept, Cellmune, Celosti, Celoxib, Celprot,
Celudex, cenicriviroc mesylate, cenplacel-1, CEP11004, CEP37247,
CEP37248, Cephyr, Ceprofen, Certican, certolizumab pegol,
Cetofenid, Cetoprofeno, cetylpyridinium chloride, CF101, CF402,
CF502, CG57008, CGEN15001, CGEN15021, CGEN15051, CGEN15091,
CGEN25017, CGEN25068, CGEN40, CGEN54, CGEN768, CGEN855, CGI1746,
CGI560, CGI676, Cgtx-Peptides, CH1504, CH4051, CH4446, chaperonin
10, chemokine C-C motif ligand 2, chemokine C-C motif ligand 2
antibody, chemokine C-C motif ligand 5 antibody, chemokine C-C
motif receptor 2 antibody, chemokine C-C motif receptor 4 antibody,
chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 10 antibody, chemokine C-X-C motif
ligand 12 aptamer, Chemotaxis Inhibitor, Chillmetacin, chitinase
a-like 1, Chlocodemin, Chloquin, chlorhexidine gluconate,
chloroquine phosphate, choline magnesium trisalicylate, chondroitin
sulfate, Chondroscart, CHR3620, CHR4432, CHR5154, Chrysalin,
Chuanxinlian, Chymapra, Chymotase, chymotrypsin, Chytmutrip, CI202,
CI302, Cicloderm-C, Ciclopren, Cicporal, Cilamin, Cimzia,
cinchophen, cinmetacin, cinnoxicam, Cinoderm, Cinolone-S, Cinryze,
Cipcorlin, cipemastat, Cipol-N, Cipridanol, Cipzen, Citax F,
Citogan, Citoken T, Civamide, CJ042794, CJ14877, c-Kit monoclonal
antibody, cladribine, Clafen, Clanza, Claversal, clazakizumab,
Clearoid, Clease, Clevegen, Clevian, Clidol, Clindac, Clinoril,
Cliptol, Clobenate, Clobequad, clobetasol butyrate, clobetasol
propionate, Clodol, clofarabine, Clofen, Clofenal LP, Clolar,
Clonac, Clongamma, clonixin lysine, Clotasoce, Clovacort, Clovana,
Cloxin, CLT001, CLT008, C-MAF Inhibitor, CMPX1023, Cnac, CNDO201,
CNI1493, CNTO136, CNTO148, CNTO1959, Cobefen, CoBenCoDerm, Cobix,
Cofenac, Cofenac, COG241, COL179, colchicine, Colchicum Dispert,
Colchimax, Colcibra, Coledes A, Colesol, Colifoam, Colirest,
collagen, type V, Comcort, complement component (3b/4b) receptor 1,
Complement Component C1s Inhibitors, complement component C3,
complement factor 5a receptor antibody, complement factor 5a
receptor antibody, complement factor D antibody, Condrosulf,
Condrotec, Condrothin, conestat alfa, connective tissue growth
factor antibody, Coolpan, Copaxone, Copiron, Cordefla, Corhydron,
Cort S, Cortan, Cortate, Cort-Dome, Cortecetine, Cortef, Corteroid,
Corticap, Corticas, Cortic-DS, corticotropin, Cortiderm, Cortidex,
Cortiflam, Cortinet M, Cortinil, Cortipyren B, Cortiran, Cortis,
Cortisolu, cortisone acetate, Cortival, Cortone acetate, Cortopin,
Cortoral, Cortril, Cortypiren, Cosamine, Cosone, cosyntropin, COT
Kinase Inhibitor, Cotilam, Cotrisone, Cotson, Covox, Cox B,
COX-2/5-LO Inhibitors, Coxeton, Coxflam, Coxicam, Coxitor, Coxtral,
Coxypar, CP195543, CP412245, CP424174, CP461, CP629933, CP690550,
CP751871, CPSI2364, C-quin, CR039, CR074, CR106, CRA102, CRAC
channel inhibitor, CRACM Ion Channel Inhibitor, Cratisone, CRB15,
CRC4273, CRC4342, C-reactive protein 2-methoxyethyl
phosphorothioate oligonucleotide, CreaVax-RA, CRH modulators,
critic-aid, Crocam, Crohnsvax, Cromoglycic acid, cromolyn sodium,
Cronocorteroid, Cronodicasone, CRTX803, CRx119, CRx139, CRx150,
CS502, CS670, CS706, CSF1R Kinase Inhibitors, CSL324, CSL718,
CSL742, CT112, CT1501R, CT200, CT2008, CT2009, CT3, CT335, CT340,
CT5357, CT637, CTP05, CTP10, CT-P13, CTP17, Cuprenil, Cuprimine,
Cuprindo, Cupripen, Curaquin, Cutfen, CWF0808, CWP271, CX1020,
CX1030, CX1040, CX5011, Cx611, Cx621, Cx911, CXC chemokine receptor
4 antibody, CXCL13 antibodies, CXCR3 antagonists, CXCR4 antagonist,
Cyathus 1104 B, Cyclo-2, Cyclocort, cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor,
cyclophosphamide, Cyclorine, Cyclosporin A Prodrug, Cyclosporin
analogue A, cyclosporine, Cyrevia, Cyrin CLARIS, CYT007TNFQb,
CYT013IL1bQb, CYT015IL17Qb, CYT020TNFQb, CYT107, CYT387, CYT99007,
cytokine inhibitors, Cytopan, Cytoreg, CZC24832, D1927, D9421C,
daclizumab, danazol, Danilase, Dantes, Danzen, dapsone, Dase-D,
Daypro, Daypro Alta, Dayrun, Dazen, DB295, DBTP2, D-Cort, DD1, DD3,
DE096, DE098, Debio0406, Debio0512, Debio0615, Debio0618,
Debio1036, Decaderm, Decadrale, Decadron, Decadronal, Decalon,
Decan, Decason, Decdan, Decilone, Declophen, Decopen, Decorex,
Decorten, Dedema, Dedron, Deexa, Defcort, De-flam, Deflamat,
Deflan, Deflanil, Deflaren, Deflaz, deflazacort, Defnac, Defnalone,
Defnil, Defosalic, Defsure, Defza, Dehydrocortison, Dekort,
Delagil, delcasertib, delmitide, Delphicort, Deltacorsolone,
Deltacortril, Deltafluorene, Deltasolone, Deltasone, Deltastab,
Deltonin, Demarin, Demisone, Denebola, denileukin diftitox,
denosumab, Denzo, Depocortin, Depo-medrol, Depomethotrexate,
Depopred, Deposet, Depyrin, Derinase, Dermol, Dermolar, Dermonate,
Dermosone, Dersone, Desketo, desonide, desoxycorticosterone
acetate, Deswon, Dexa, Dexabene, Dexacip, Dexacort, Dexacortisone,
Dexacotisil, Dexadic, Dexadrin, Dexadron, Dexafar, Dexahil,
Dexalab, Dexalaf, Dexalet, Dexalgen, Dexallion, Dexalocal,
Dexalone, Dexa-M, Dexamecortin, Dexamed, Dexamedis, Dexameral,
Dexameta, Dexamethasone, dexamethasone acetate, dexamethasone
palmitate, dexamethasone phosphate, dexamethasone sodium
metasulfobenzoate, dexamethasone sodium phosphate, Dexamine,
Dexapanthen, Dexa-S, Dexason, Dexatab, Dexatopic, Dexaval, Dexaven,
Dexazolidin, Dexazona, Dexazone, Dexcor, Dexibu, dexibuprofen,
Dexico, Dexifen, Deximune, dexketoprofen, dexketoprofen trometamol,
Dexmark, Dexomet, Dexon I, Dexonalin, Dexonex, Dexony, Dexoptifen,
Dexpin, Dextan-Plus, dextran sulfate, Dezacor, Dfz, diacerein,
Diannexin, Diastone, Dicarol, Dicasone, Dicknol, Diclo, Diclobon,
Diclobonse, Diclobonzox, Diclofast, Diclofen, diclofenac,
diclofenac beta-dimethylaminoethanol, diclofenac deanol, diclofenac
diethylamine, diclofenac epolamine, diclofenac potassium,
diclofenac resinate, diclofenac sodium, Diclogen AGIO, Diclogen
Plus, Diclokim, Diclomed, Diclo-NA, Diclonac, Dicloramin, Dicloran,
Dicloreum, Diclorism, Diclotec, Diclovit, Diclowal, Diclozem, Dico
P, Dicofen, Dicoliv, Dicorsone, Dicron, Dicser, Difena, Diffutab,
diflunisal, dilmapimod, Dilora, dimethyl sulfone, Dinac,
D-Indomethacin, Dioxaflex Protect, Dipagesic, Dipenopen, Dipexin,
Dipro AS, Diprobeta, Diprobetasone, Diproklenat, Dipromet,
Dipronova, Diprosone, Diprovate, Diproxen, Disarmin, Diser,
Disopain, Dispain, Dispercam, Distamine, Dizox, DLT303, DLT404,
DM199, DM99, DMI9523, dnaJP1, DNX02070, DNX04042, DNX2000, DNX4000,
docosanol, Docz-6, Dolamide, Dolaren, Dolchis, Dolex, Dolflam,
Dolfre, Dolgit, Dolmax, Dolmina, Dolo Ketazon, Dolobest, Dolobid,
Doloc, Dolocam, Dolocartigen, Dolofit, Dolokind, Dolomed, Dolonac,
Dolonex, Dolotren, Dolozen, Dolquine, Dom0100, Dom0400, Dom0800,
Domet, Dometon, Dominadol, Dongipap, Donica, Dontisanin,
doramapimod, Dorixina Relax, Dormelox, Dorzine Plus, Doxatar,
Doxtran, DP NEC, DP4577, DP50, DP6221, D-Penamine, DPIV/APN
Inhibitors, DR1 Inhibitors, DR4 Inhibitors, DRA161, DRA162, Drenex,
DRF4848, DRL15725, Drossadin, DSP, Duexis, Duo-Decadron, Duoflex,
Duonase, DV1079, DV1179, DWJ425, DWP422, Dymol, DYN15, Dynapar,
Dysmen, E5090, E6070, Easy Dayz, Ebetrexat, EBI007, EC0286, EC0565,
EC0746, Ecax,
echinacea purpurea extract, EC-Naprosyn, Econac, Ecosprin 300,
Ecosprin 300, Ecridoxan, eculizumab, Edecam, efalizumab,
Efcortesol, Effigel, Eflagen, Efridol, EGFR Antibody, EGS21, eIF5A1
siRNA, Ekarzin, elafin, Eldoflam, Elidel, Eliflam, Elisone, Elmes,
Elmetacin, ELND001, ELND004, elocalcitol, Elocom, elsibucol,
Emanzen, Emcort, Emifen, Emifenac, emorfazone, Empynase, emricasan,
Emtor, Enable, Enbrel, Enceid, EncorStat, Encortolon, Encorton,
Endase, Endogesic, Endoxan, Enkorten, Ensera, Entocort, Enzylan,
Epanova, Eparang, Epatec, Epicotil, epidermal growth factor
receptor 2 antibody, epidermal growth factor receptor antibody,
Epidixone, Epidron, Epiklin, EPPA1, epratuzumab, EquiO, Erac,
Erazon, ERB041, ERB196, Erdon, EryDex, escherichia coli enterotoxin
B subunit, Escin, E-Selectin Antagonists, Esfenac, ESN603,
esonarimod, Esprofen, estetrol, Estopein, Estrogen Receptor beta
agonist, etanercept, etaracizumab, ETC001, ethanol propolis
extract, ETI511, etiprednol dicloacetate, Etodin, Etodine, Etodol,
etodolac, Etody, etofenamate, Etol Fort, Etolac, Etopin,
etoricoxib, Etorix, Etosafe, Etova, Etozox, Etura, Eucob, Eufans,
eukaryotic translation initiation factor 5A oligonucleotide, Eunac,
Eurocox, Eurogesic, everolimus, Evinopon, EVT401, Exaflam,
EXEL9953, Exicort, Expen, Extra Feverlet, Extrapan, Extrauma,
Exudase, F16, F991, Falcam, Falcol, Falzy, Farbovil, Farcomethacin,
Farnerate, Farnezone, Farnezone, Farotrin, fas antibody, Fastflam,
FasTRACK, Fastum, Fauldmetro, FcgammaRlA antibody, FE301, Febrofen,
Febrofid, felbinac, Feldene, Feldex, Feloran, Felxicam, Fenac,
Fenacop, Fenadol, Fenaflan, Fenamic, Fenaren, Fenaton, Fenbid,
fenbufen, Fengshi Gutong, Fenicort, Fenopine, fenoprofen calcium,
Fenopron, Fenris, Fensupp, Fenxicam, fepradinol, Ferovisc,
Feverlet, fezakinumab, FG3019, FHT401, FHTCT4, FID114657,
figitumumab, Filexi, filgrastim, Fillase, Final, Findoxin,
fingolimod hydrochloride, firategrast, Firdapse, Fisiodar, Fivasa,
FK778, Flacoxto, Fladalgin, Flagon, Flamar, Flamcid, Flamfort,
Flamide, Flaminase, Flamirex Gesic, Flanid, Flanzen, Flaren,
Flaren, Flash Act, Flavonoid Anti-inflammatory Molecule, Flebogamma
DIF, Flenac, Flex, Flexafen 400, Flexi, Flexidol, Flexium, Flexon,
Flexono, Flogene, Flogiatrin B12, Flogomin, Flogoral, Flogosan,
Flogoter, Flo-Pred, Flosteron, Flotrip Forte, Flt3 inhibitors,
fluasterone, Flucam, Flucinar, fludrocortisone acetate, flufenamate
aluminum, flumethasone, Flumidon, flunixin, fluocinolone,
fluocinolone acetonide, fluocinonide, fluocortolone, Fluonid,
fluorometholone, Flur, flurbiprofen, Fluribec, Flurometholone,
Flutal, fluticasone, fluticasone propionate, Flutizone, Fluzone,
FM101 antibody, fms-related tyrosine kinase 1 antibody, Folitrax,
fontolizumab, formic acid, Fortecortin, Fospeg, fostamatinib
disodium, FP1069, FP13XX, FPA008, FPA031, FPT025, FR104, FR167653,
Framebin, Frime, Froben, Frolix, FROUNT Inhibitors, Fubifen PAP,
Fucole ibuprofen, Fulamotol, Fulpen, Fungifin, Furotalgin, fusidate
sodium, FX002, FX141L, FX201, FX300, FX87L, Galectin modulators,
gallium maltolate, Gamimune N, Gammagard, Gamma-I.V., GammaQuin,
Gamma-Venin, Gamunex, Garzen, Gaspirin, Gattex, GBR500, GBR500
antibody, GBT009, G-CSF, GED0301, GED0414, Gefenec, Gelofen,
Genepril, Gengraf, Genimune, Geniquin, Genotropin, Genz29155,
Gerbin, Gerbin, gevokizumab, GF01564600, Gilenia, Gilenya,
givinostat, GL0050, GL2045, glatiramer acetate, Globulin, Glortho
Forte, Glovalox, Glovenin-I, GLPG0259, GLPG0555, GLPG0634,
GLPG0778, GLPG0974, Gluco, Glucocerin, glucosamine, glucosamine
hydrochloride, glucosamine sulfate, Glucotin, Gludex, Glutilage,
GLY079, GLY145, Glycanic, Glycefort up, Glygesic, Glysopep, GMCSF
Antibody, GMI1010, GMI1011, GMI1043, GMR321, GN4001, Goanna Salve,
Goflex, gold sodium thiomalate, golimumab, GP2013, GPCR modulator,
GPR15 Antagonist, GPR183 antagonist, GPR32 antagonist, GPR83
antagonist, G-protein Coupled Receptor Antagonists, Graceptor,
Graftac, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor antibody,
granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor antibody, Gravx,
GRC4039, Grelyse, GS101, GS9973, GSC100, GSK1605786, GSK1827771,
GSK2136525, GSK2941266, GSK315234, GSK681323, GT146, GT442,
Gucixiaotong, Gufisera, Gupisone, gusperimus hydrochloride,
GW274150, GW3333, GW406381, GW856553, GWB78, GXP04, Gynestrel,
Haloart, halopredone acetate, Haloxin, HANALL, Hanall Soludacortin,
Havisco, Hawon Bucillamin, HB802, HC31496, HCQ 200, HD104, HD203,
HD205, HDAC inhibitor, HE2500, HE3177, HE3413, Hecoria,
Hectomitacin, Hefasolon, Helen, Helenil, HemaMax, Hematom,
hematopoietic stem cells, Hematrol, Hemner, Hemril, heparinoid,
Heptax, HER2 Antibody, Herponil, hESC Derived Dendritic Cells, hESC
Derived Hematopoietic stem cells, Hespercorbin, Hexacorton,
Hexadrol, hexetidine, Hexoderm, Hexoderm Salic, HF0220, HF1020,
HFT-401, hG-CSFR ED Fc, Hiberna, high mobility group box 1
antibody, Hiloneed, Hinocam, hirudin, Hirudoid, Hison, Histamine H4
Receptor Antagonist, Hitenercept, Hizentra, HL036, HL161, HMPL001,
HMPL004, HMPL004, HMPL011, HMPL342, HMPL692, honey bee venom,
Hongqiang, Hotemin, HPH116, HTI101, HuCAL Antibody, Human adipose
mesenchymal stem cells, anti-MHC class II monoclonal antibody,
Human Immunoglobulin, Human Placenta Tissue Hydrolysate, HuMaxCD4,
HuMax-TAC, Humetone, Humicade, Humira, Huons Betamethasone sodium
phosphate, Huons dexamethasone sodium phosphate, Huons Piroxicam,
Huons Talniflumate, Hurofen, Huruma, Huvap, HuZAF, HX02, Hyalogel,
hyaluronate sodium, hyaluronic acid, hyaluronidase, Hyaron,
Hycocin, Hycort, Hy-Cortisone, hydrocortisone, hydrocortisone
acetate, hydrocortisone butyrate, hydrocortisone hemisuccinate,
hydrocortisone sodium phosphate, hydrocortisone sodium succinate,
Hydrocortistab, Hydrocortone, Hydrolin, Hydroquine, Hydro-Rx,
Hydrosone HIKMA, hydroxychloroquine, hydroxychloroquine sulfate,
Hylase Dessau, HyMEX, Hypen, HyQ, Hysonate, HZN602, I.M.75, IAP
Inhibitors, Ibalgin, Ibalgin, Ibex, ibrutinib, IBsolvMIR, Ibu,
Ibucon, Ibudolor, Ibufen, Ibuflam, Ibuflex, Ibugesic, Ibu-Hepa,
Ibukim, Ibumal, Ibunal, Ibupental, Ibupril, Ibuprof, ibuprofen,
Ibuscent, Ibusoft, Ibusuki Penjeong, Ibususpen, Ibutard, Ibutop,
Ibutop, Ibutrex, IC487892, ichthammol, ICRAC Blocker, IDEC131,
IDECCE9.1, Ides, Idicin, Idizone, IDN6556, Idomethine, IDR1, Idyl
SR, Ifen, iguratimod, IK6002, IKK-beta inhibitor, IL17 Antagonist,
IL-17 Inhibitor, IL-17RC, IL18, IL1Hy1, IL1R1, IL-23 Adnectin, IL23
Inhibitor, IL23 Receptor Antagonist, IL-31 mAb, IL-6 Inhibitor,
IL6Qb, Ilacox, Ilaris, ilodecakin, ILV094, ILV095, Imaxetil,
IMD0560, IMD2560, Imesel Plus, Iminoral, Immodin, IMMU103, IMMU106,
Immucept, Immufine, Immunex Syrup, immunoglobulin, immunoglobulin
G, Immunoprin, ImmunoRel, Immurin, IMO8400, IMP731 antibody,
Implanta, Imunocell, Imuran, Imurek, Imusafe, Imusporin, Imutrex,
IN0701, Inal, INCB039110, INCB18424, INCB28050, INCB3284, INCB3344,
Indexon, Indic, Indo, Indo-A, Indobid, Indo-Bros, Indocaf,
Indocarsil, Indocid, Indocin, Indomehotpas, Indomen, Indomet,
Indometacin, indomethacin, Indomethasone, Indometin, Indomin,
Indopal, Indoron, Indotroxin, INDUS830, INDUS83030, Infladase,
Inflamac, Inflammasome inhibitor, Inflavis, Inflaxen, Inflectra,
infliximab, Ingalipt, Inicox dp, Inmecin, Inmunoartro, Innamit,
InnoD06006, IN07997, Inocin, Inoten, Inovan, Inpra, Inside Pap,
Insider-P, Instacyl, Instracool, Intafenac, Intaflam, Inteban,
Inteban Spansule, integrin, alpha 1 antibody, integrin, alpha 2
antibody, Intenurse, interferon alfa, interferon beta-1a,
interferon gamma, interferon gamma antibody, Interking, interleukin
1 Hy1, interleukin 1 antibody, interleukin 1 receptor antibody,
interleukin 1, beta antibody, interleukin 10, interleukin 10
antibody, interleukin 12, interleukin 12 antibody, interleukin 13
antibody, interleukin 15 antibody, interleukin 17 antibody,
interleukin 17 receptor C, interleukin 18, interleukin 18 binding
protein, interleukin 18 antibody, interleukin 2 receptor, alpha
antibody, interleukin 20 antibody, Interleukin 21 mAb, interleukin
23 aptamer, interleukin 31 antibody, interleukin 34, Interleukin 6
Inhibitor, interleukin 6 antibody, interleukin 6 receptor antibody,
interleukin 7, interleukin 7 receptor antibody, interleukin 8,
interleukin 8 antibody, interleukin-18 antibody, Intidrol,
Intradex, Intragam P, Intragesic, Intraglobin F, Intratect, Inzel,
Iomab B, IOR-T3, IP751, IPH2201, IPH2301, IPH24, IPH33, IP1145,
Ipocort, IPP201007, I-Profen, Iprox, Ipson, Iputon, IRAK4
Inhibitor, Iremod, Irtonpyson, IRX3, IRX5183, ISA247, ISIS104838,
ISIS2302, ISISCRPRx, Ismafron, IsoQC inhibitor, Isox, ITF2357,
Iveegam EN, Ivepred, IVIG-SN, IW001, Izilox, J607Y, J775Y, JAK
Inhibitor, JAK3 inhibitor, JAK3 kinase inhibitor, JI3292, JI4135,
Jinan Lida, JNJ10329670, JNJ18003414, JNJ26528398, JNJ27390467,
JNJ28838017, JNJ31001958, JNJ38518168, JNJ39758979, JNJ40346527,
JNJ7777120, JNT-Plus, Joflam, Joint Glucosamin, Jointec, Jointstem,
Joinup, JPE1375, JSM10292, JSM7717, JSM8757, JTE051, JTE052,
JTE522, JTE607, Jusgo, K412, K832, Kaflam, KAHR101, KAHR102,
KAI9803, Kalymin, Kam Predsol, Kameton, KANAb071, Kappaproct,
KAR2581, KAR3000, KAR3166, KAR4000, KAR4139, KAR4141, KB002, KB003,
KD7332, KE298, keliximab, Kemanat, Kemrox, Kenacort, Kenalog,
Kenaxir, Kenketsu Venoglobulin-IH, Keplat, Ketalgipan, Keto Pine,
Keto, Ketobos, Ketofan, Ketofen, Ketolgan, Ketonal, Ketoplus Kata
Plasma, ketoprofen, Ketores, Ketorin, ketorolac, ketorolac
tromethamine, Ketoselect, Ketotop, Ketovail, Ketricin, Ketroc,
Ketum, Keyi, Keyven, KF24345, K-Fenac, K-Fenak, K-Gesic, Kifadene,
Kilcort, Kildrol, KIM127, Kimotab, Kinase Inhibitor 4SC, Kinase N,
Kincort, Kindorase, Kineret, Kineto, Kitadol, Kitex, Kitolac, KLK1
Inhibitor, Klofen-L, Klotaren, KLS-40or, KLS-40ra, KM277, Knavon,
Kodolo orabase, Kohakusanin, Koide, Koidexa, Kolbet, Konac, Kondro,
Kondromin, Konshien, Kontab, Kordexa, Kosa, Kotase, KPE06001,
KRP107, KRP203, KRX211, KRX252, KSB302, K-Sep, Kv 1.3 Blocker,
Kv1.3 4SC, Kv1.3 inhibitor, KVK702, Kynol, L156602, Labizone,
Labohydro, Labopen, Lacoxa, Lamin, Lamit, Lanfetil, laquinimod,
larazotide acetate, LAS186323, LAS187247, LAS41002, Laticort,
LBEC0101, LCP3301, LCP-Siro, LCP-Tacro, LCsA, LDP392, Leap-S,
Ledercort, Lederfen, Lederlon, Lederspan, Lefenine, leflunomide,
Leflux, Lefno, Lefra, Leftose, Lefumide, Lefunodin, Lefva,
lenalidomide, lenercept, LentiRA, LEO15520, Leodase, Leukine,
Leukocyte function-associated antigen-1 antagonist, leukocyte
immunoglobulin-like receptor, subfamily A, member 4 antibody,
Leukothera, leuprolide acetate, levalbuterol, levomenthol, LFA-1
Antagonist, LFA451, LFA703, LFA878, LG106, LG267 Inhibitors, LG688
Inhibitors, LGD5552, Li Life, LidaMantle, Lidex, lidocaine,
lidocaine hydrochloride, Lignocaine hydrochloride, LIM0723,
LIM5310, Limethason, Limus, Limustin, Lindac, Linfonex, Linola
acute, Lipcy, lisofylline, Listran, Liver X Receptor modulator,
Lizak, LJP1207, LJP920, Lobafen, Lobu, Locafluo, Localyn,
Locaseptil-Neo, Locpren, Lodine, Lodotra, Lofedic, Loflam, Lofnac,
Lolcam, Lonac, lonazolac calcium, Loprofen, Loracort, Lorcam,
Lorfenamin, Lorinden Lotio, Lorncrat, lornoxicam, Lorox,
losmapimod, loteprednol etabonate, Loteprednol, Lotirac, Low
Molecular Ganoderma Lucidum Polysaccharide, Loxafen, Loxfenine,
Loxicam, Loxofen, Loxonal, Loxonin, loxoprofen sodium, Loxoron,
LP183A1, LP183A2, LP204A1, LPCN1019, LT1942, LT1964, LTNS101,
LTNS103, LTNS106, LTNS108, LTS1115, LTZMP001, Lubor, lumiracoxib,
Lumitect, LX2311, LX2931, LX2932, LY2127399, LY2189102, LY2439821,
LY294002, LY3009104, LY309887, LY333013, lymphocyte activation gene
3 antibody, Lymphoglobuline, Lyser, lysine aspirin, Lysobact,
Lysoflam, Lysozyme hydrochloride, M3000, M834, M923, mAb hG-CSF,
MABP1, macrophage migration inhibitory factor antibody, Maitongna,
Majamil prolongatum, major histocompatibility complex class II DR
antibody, major histocompatibility complex class II antibody,
Malidens, Malival, mannan-binding lectin, mannan-binding
lectin-associated serine protease-2 antibody, MapKap Kinase 2
Inhibitor, maraviroc, Marlex, masitinib, Maso, MASP2 antibody,
MAT304, Matrix Metalloprotease Inhibitor, mavrilimumab, Maxiflam,
Maxilase, Maximus, Maxisona, Maxius, Maxpro, Maxrel, Maxsulid,
Maxy12, Maxy30, MAXY4, Maxy735, Maxy740, Mayfenamic, MB11040,
MBPY003b, MCAF5352A, McCam, McRofy, MCS18, MD707, MDAM, MDcort,
MDR06155, MDT012, Mebicam, Mebuton, meclofenamate sodium,
Meclophen, Mecox, Medacomb, Medafen, Medamol, Medesone, MEDI2070,
MEDI5117, MEDI541, MEDI552, MEDI571, Medicox, Medifen, Medisolu,
Medixon, Mednisol, Medrol, Medrolon, medroxyprogesterone acetate,
Mefalgin, mefenamic acid, Mefenix, Mefentan, Meflen, Mefnetra
forte, Meftagesic-DT, Meftal, Megakaryocyte Growth and Development
Factor, Megaspas, Megaster, megestrol acetate, Meite, Meksun,
Melbrex, Melcam, Melcam, Melflam, Melic, Melica, Melix, Melocam,
Melocox, Mel-One, Meloprol, Melosteral, Melox, Meloxan, Meloxcam,
Meloxic, Meloxicam, Meloxifen, Meloxin, Meloxiv, Melpred, Melpros,
Melurjin, Menamin, Menisone, Menthomketo, Menthoneurin, Mentocin,
Mepa, Mepharen, meprednisone, Mepresso, Mepsolone, mercaptopurine,
Mervan, Mesadoron, mesalamine, Mesasal, Mesatec, Mesenchymal
Precursor Cells, mesenchymal stem cell, Mesipol, Mesren, Mesulan,
Mesulid, Metacin, Metadaxan, Metaflex, Metalcaptase, metalloenzyme
inhibitors, Metapred, Metax, Metaz, Meted, Metedic, Methacin,
Methaderm, Methasone, Methotrax, methotrexate, methotrexate sodium,
Methpred, Methyl prednisolone acetate, methyl salicylate, methyl
sulphonyl methane, Methylon, Methylpred, methylprednisolone,
methylprednisolone acetate, methylprednisolone sodium succinate,
methylprednisolone succinate, Methylprednisolone, Methysol,
Metindol, Metoart, Metoject, Metolate, Metoral, Metosyn, Metotab,
Metracin, Metrex, metronidazole, Metypred, Mevamox, Mevedal,
Mevilox, Mevin SR, Mexilal, Mexpharm, Mext, Mextran, MF280, M-FasL,
MHC class II beta chain peptide, Micar, Miclofen, Miclofenac,
Micofenolato Mofetil, Micosone, Microdase, microRNA 181a-2
oligonucleotide, MIF Inhibitors, MIFQb, MIKA-Ketoprofen, Mikametan,
milodistim, Miltax, Minafen, Minalfen, Minalfene, Minesulin,
Minocort, Mioflex, Miolox, Miprofen, Miridacin, Mirloks, Misoclo,
Misofenac, MISTB03, MISTB04, Mitilor, mizoribine, MK0359, MK0812,
MK0873, MK2 Inhibitors, MK50, MK8457, MK8808, MKC204, MLN0002,
MLN0415, MLN1202, MLN273, MLN3126, MLN3701, MLN3897, MLNM002,
MM093, MM7XX, MN8001, Mobic, Mobicam, Mobicox, Mobifen Plus,
Mobilat, Mobitil, Mocox, Modigraf, Modrasone, Modulin, Mofecept,
Mofetyl, mofezolac sodium, Mofilet, Molace, molgramostim, Molslide,
Momekin, Momen Gele, Moment 100, Momesone, Momesun, Mometamed,
mometasone, mometasone furoate, Monimate, monosodium alpha-luminol,
Mopik, MOR103, MOR104, MOR105, MOR208 antibody, MORAb022, Moricam,
morniflumate, Mosuolit, Motoral, Movaxin, Mover, Movex, Movix,
Movoxicam, Mox Forte, Moxen, moxifloxacin hydrochloride, Mozobil,
MP, MP0210, MP0270, MP1000, MP1031, MP196, MP435, MPA, mPGES-1
inhibitor, MPSS, MRX7EAT, MSL, MT203, MT204, mTOR Inhibitor,
MTRX1011A, Mucolase, Multicort, MultiStem, muramidase, muramidase,
muramidase hydrochloride, muromonab-CD3, Muslax, Muspinil, Mutaze,
Muvera, MX68, Mycept, Mycocell, Mycocept, Mycofenolatmofetil
Actavis, Mycofet, Mycofit, Mycolate, Mycoldosa, Mycomun, Myconol,
mycophenolate mofetil, mycophenolate sodium, mycophenolic acid,
Mycotil, myeloid progenitor cells, Myfenax, Myfetil, Myfortic,
Mygraft, Myochrysine, Myocrisin, Myprodol, Mysone,
nab-Cyclosporine, Nabentac, nabiximols, Nabton, Nabuco, Nabucox,
Nabuflam, Nabumet, nabumetone, Nabuton, Nac Plus, Nacta, Nacton,
Nadium, Naklofen SR, NAL1207, NAL1216, NAL1219, NAL1268, NAL8202,
Nalfon, Nalgesin S, namilumab, Namsafe, nandrolone, Nanocort,
Nanogam, Nanosomal Tacrolimus, Napageln, Napilac, Naprelan, Napro,
Naprodil, Napronax, Napropal, Naproson, Naprosyn, Naproval, Naprox,
naproxen, naproxen sodium, Naproxin, Naprozen, Narbon, Narexsin,
Naril, Nasida, natalizumab, Naxdom, Naxen, Naxin, Nazovel, NC2300,
ND07, NDC01352, Nebumetone, NecLipGCSF, Necsulide, Necsunim,
Nelsid-S, Neo Clobenate, Neo Swiflox FC, Neocoflan, Neo-Drol,
Neo-Eblimon, Neo-Hydro, Neoplanta, Neoporine, Neopreol, Neoprox,
Neoral, Neotrexate, Neozen, Nepra, Nestacort, Neumega, Neupogen,
Neuprex, Neurofenac, Neurogesic, Neurolab, Neuroteradol,
Neuroxicam, Neutalin, neutrazumab, Neuzym, New Panazox, Newfenstop,
NewGam, Newmafen, Newmatal, Newsicam, NEX1285, sFcRIIB, Nextomab,
NF-kappaB Inhibitor, NF-kB inhibitor, NGD20001, NHP554B, NHP554P,
NI0101 antibody, NI0401, NI0501 antibody, NI0701, N1071, N11201
antibody, NI1401, Nicip, Niconas, Nicool, NiCord, Nicox, Niflumate,
Nigaz, Nikam, Nilitis, Nimace, Nimaid, Nimark-P, Nimaz, Nimcet
Juicy, Nime, Nimed, Nimepast, nimesulide, Nimesulix, Nimesulon,
Nimica Plus, Nimkul, Nimlin, Nimnat, Nimodol, Nimpidase, Nimsaid-S,
Nimser, Nimsy-SP, Nimupep, Nimusol, Nimutal, Nimuwin, Nimvon-S,
Nincort, Niofen, Nipan, Nipent, Nise, Nisolone, Nisopred, Nisoprex,
Nisulid, nitazoxanide, Nitcon, nitric oxide, Nizhvisal B, Nizon,
NL, NMR1947, NN8209, NN8210, NN8226, NN8555, NN8765, NN8828,
NNC014100000100, NNCO51869, Noak, Nodevex, Nodia, Nofenac,
Noflagma, Noflam, Noflamen, Noflux, Non-antibacterial
Tetracyclines, Nonpiron, Nopain, Normferon, Notpel, Notritis,
Novacort, Novagent, Novarin, Novigesic, NOXA12, NOXD19, Noxen,
Noxon, NPI1302a-3, NPI1342, NPI1387, NPI1390, NPRCS1, NPRCS2,
NPRCS3, NPRCS4, NPRCS5, NPRCS6, NPS3,
NPS4, nPT-ery, NU3450, nuclear factor NF-kappa-B p65 subunit
oligonucleotide, Nucort, Nulojix, Numed-Plus, Nurokind Ortho,
Nusone-H, Nutrikemia, Nuvion, NV07alpha, NX001, Nyclobate, Nyox,
Nysa, Obarcort, OC002417, OC2286, ocaratuzumab, OCTSG815, Oedemase,
Oedemase-D, ofatumumab, Ofgyl-O, Ofvista, OHR118, OKi, Okifen,
Oksamen, Olai, olokizumab, Omeprose E, Omnacortil, Omneed,
Omniclor, Omnigel, Omniwel, onercept, ONO4057, ONS1210, ONS1220,
Ontac Plus, Ontak, ONX0914, OPC6535, opebacan, OPN101, OPN201,
OPN302, OPN305, OPN401, oprelvekin, OPT66, Optifer, Optiflur,
OptiMIRA, Orabase Hca, Oradexon, Oraflex, OralFenac, Oralog,
Oralpred, Ora-sed, Orasone, orBec, Orbone forte, Orcl, ORE10002,
ORE10002, Orencia, Org214007, Org217993, Org219517, Org223119,
Org37663, Org39141, Org48762, Org48775, Orgadrone, Ormoxen, Orofen
Plus, Oromylase Biogaran, Orthal Forte, Ortho Flex, Orthoclone
OKT3, Orthofen, Orthoflam, Orthogesic, Orthoglu, Ortho-II,
Orthomac, Ortho-Plus, Ortinims, Ortofen, Orudis, Oruvail, OS2,
Oscart, Osmetone, Ospain, Ossilife, Ostelox, Osteluc, Osteocerin,
osteopontin, Osteral, otelixizumab, Otipax, Ou Ning, OvaSave, OX40
Ligand Antibody, Oxa, Oxagesic CB, Oxalgin DP, oxaprozin, OXCQ,
Oxeno, Oxib MD, Oxibut, Oxicam, Oxiklorin, Oximal, Oxynal,
oxyphenbutazone, Oxyphenbutazone, ozoralizumab, P13 peptide, P1639,
P21, P2X7 Antagonists, p38 Alpha Inhibitor, p38 Antagonist, p38 MAP
kinase inhibitor, p38alpha MAP Kinase Inhibitor, P7 peptide, P7170,
P979, PA401, PA517, Pabi-dexamethasone, PAC, PAC10649, paclitaxel,
Painoxam, Paldon, Palima, pamapimod, Pamatase, Panafcort,
Panafcortelone, Panewin, PanGraf, Panimun Bioral, Panmesone,
Panodin SR, Panslay, Panzem, Panzem NCD, PAP1, papain, Papirzin,
Pappen K Pap, Paptinim-D, paquinimod, PAR2 Antagonist, Paracetamol,
Paradic, Parafen TAJ, Paramidin, Paranac, Parapar, Parci,
parecoxib, Parixam, Parry-S, Partaject Busulfan, pateclizumab,
Paxceed, PBI0032, PBI1101, PBI1308, PBI1393, PBI1607, PBI1737,
PBI2856, PBI4419, PBI4419, P-Cam, PCI31523, PCI32765, PCI34051,
PCI45261, PCI45292, PCI45308, PD360324, PD360324, PDA001, PDE4
inhibitor, PDE-IV Inhibitor, PDL241 antibody, PDL252, Pediapred,
Pefree, pegacaristim, Peganix, Peg-Interleukin 12, pegsunercept,
Pegsunercept, PEGylated arginine deiminase, peldesine,
pelubiprofen, Penacle, penicillamine, Penostop, Pentalgin, Pentasa,
Pentaud, pentostatin, Peon, Pepdase, Pepser, Peptirase, Pepzen,
Pepzol, Percutalgine, Periochip, Peroxisome Proliferator Activated
Receptor gamma modulators, Petizene, PF00344600, PF04171327,
PF04236921, PF04308515, PF05230905, PF05280586, PF251802,
PF3475952, PF3491390, PF3644022, PF4629991, PF4856880, PF5212367,
PF5230896, PF547659, PF755616, PF9184, PG27, PG562, PG760564,
PG8395, PGE3935199, PGE527667, PHS, PH797804, PHA408, Pharmaniaga
Mefenamic acid, Pharmaniaga Meloxicam, Pheldin, Phenocept,
phenylbutazone, PHY702, PI3K delta inhibitor, PI3K Gamma/Delta
Inhibitor, PI3K Inhibitor, Picalm, pidotimod, piketoprofen,
Pilelife, Pilopil, Pilovate, pimecrolimus, Pipethanen, Piractam,
Pirexyl, Pirobet, Piroc, Pirocam, Pirofel, Pirogel, Piromed,
Pirosol, Pirox, Piroxen, Piroxicam, piroxicam betadex, Piroxifar,
Piroxil, Piroxim, Pixim, Pixykine, PKC Theta Inhibitor, PL3100,
PL5100 Diclofenac, Placenta Polypeptide, Plaquenil, plerixafor,
Plocfen, PLR14, PLR18, Plutin, PLX3397, PLX5622, PLX647, PLX-BMT,
pms-Diclofenac, pms-Ibuprofen, pms-Leflunomide, pms-Meloxicam,
pms-Piroxicam, pms-Prednisolone, pms-Sulfasalazine,
pms-Tiaprofenic, PMX53, PN0615, PN100, PN951, podofilox, POL6326,
Polcortolon, Polyderm, Polygam S/D, Polyphlogin, Poncif, Ponstan,
Ponstil Forte, Porine-A Neoral, Potaba, potassium aminobenzoate,
Potencort, Povidone, povidone iodine, pralnacasan, Prandin, Prebel,
Precodil, Precortisyl Forte, Precortyl, Predfoam, Predicort,
Predicorten, Predilab, Predilone, Predmetil, Predmix, Predna,
Prednesol, Predni, prednicarbate, Prednicort, Prednidib,
Prednifarma, Prednilasca, prednisolone, prednisolone acetate,
prednisolone sodium phosphate, prednisolone sodium succinate,
prednisolone sodium succinate, prednisone, prednisone acetate,
Prednitop, Prednol-L, Prednox, Predone, Predonema, Predsol,
Predsolone, Predsone, Predval, Preflam, Prelon, Prenaxol,
Prenolone, Preservex, Preservin, Presol, Preson, Prexige,
Priliximab, Primacort, Primmuno, Primofenac, prinaberel, Privigen,
Prixam, Probuxil, Procarne, Prochymal, Procider-EF, Proctocir,
Prodase, Prodel B, Prodent, Prodent Verde, Proepa, Profecom,
Profenac L, Profenid, Profenol, Proflam, Proflex, Progesic Z,
proglumetacin, proglumetacin maleate, Prograf, Prolase, Prolixan,
promethazine hydrochloride, Promostem, Promune, PronaB, pronase,
Pronat, Prongs, Pronison, Prontoflam, Propaderm-L, Propodezas,
Propolisol, Proponol, propyl nicotinate, Prostaloc, Prostapol,
Protacin, Protase, Protease Inhibitors, Protectan, Proteinase
Activated Receptor 2 Inhibitor, Protofen, Protrin, Proxalyoc,
Proxidol, Proxigel, Proxil, Proxym, Prozym, PRT062070, PRT2607,
PRTX100, PRTX200, PRX106, PRX167700, Prysolone, PS031291, PS375179,
PS386113, PS540446, PS608504, PS826957, PS873266, Psorid, PT, PT17,
PTL101, P-Transfer Factor peptides, PTX3, Pulminiq, Pulsonid,
Purazen, Pursin, PVS40200, PX101, PX106491, PX114, PXS2000,
PXS2076, PYM60001, Pyralvex, Pyranim, pyrazinobutazone, Pyrenol,
Pyricam, Pyrodex, Pyroxi-Kid, QAX576, Qianbobiyan, QPI1002, QR440,
qT3, Quiacort, Quidofil, R107s, R125224, R1295, R132811, R1487,
R1503, R1524, R1628, R333, R348, R548, R7277, R788, rabeximod,
Radix Isatidis, Radofen, Raipeck, Rambazole, Randazima, Rapacan,
Rapamune, Raptiva, Ravax, Rayos, RDEA119, RDEA436, RDP58, Reactine,
Rebif, REC200, Recartix-DN, receptor for advanced glycation end
products antibody, Reclast, Reclofen, recombinant HSA-TIMP-2,
recombinant human alkaline Phosphatase, recombinant Interferon
Gamma, Recominant human alkaline phosphatase, Reconil, Rectagel HC,
Recticin, Recto Menaderm, Rectos, Redipred, Redolet, Refastin,
Regenica, REGN88, Relafen, Relaxib, Relev, Relex, Relifen, Relifex,
Relitch, Rematof, remestemcel-1, Remesulidum, Remicade, Remsima,
Remsima, Remsima, ReN1869, Renacept, Renfor, Renodapt, Renodapt-S,
Renta, Reosan, Repare-AR, Reparilexin, reparixin, Repertaxin,
Repisprin, Resochin, Resol, resolvin E1, Resurgil, Re-tin-colloid,
Retoz, Reumacap, Reumacon, Reumadolor, Reumador, Reumanisal,
Reumazin, Reumel, Reumotec, Reuquinol, revamilast, Revascor,
Reviroc, Revlimid, Revmoksikam, Rewalk, Rexalgan, RG2077, RG3421,
RG4934 antibody, RG7416, RG7624, Rheila, Rheoma, Rheprox,
Rheudenolone, Rheufen, Rheugesic, Rheumacid, Rheumacort,
Rheumatrex, Rheumesser, Rheumid, Rheumon, Rheumox, Rheuoxib,
Rhewlin, Rhucin, RhuDex, Rhulef, Ribox, Ribunal, Ridaura,
rifaximin, rilonacept, rimacalib, Rimase, Rimate, Rimatil, Rimesid,
risedronate sodium, Ritamine, Rito, Rituxan, rituximab, RNS60,
RO1138452, Ro313948, RO3244794, RO5310074, Rob803, Rocamix, Rocas,
Rofeb, rofecoxib, Rofee, Rofewal, Roficip Plus, Rojepen, Rokam,
Rolodiquim, Romacox Fort, Romatim, romazarit, Ronaben, ronacaleret,
Ronoxcin, ROR Gamma T Antagonist, ROR gamma t inverse agonists,
Rosecin, rosiglitazone, Rosmarinic acid, Rotan, Rotec, Rothacin,
Roxam, Roxib, Roxicam, Roxopro, Roxygin DT, RP54745, RPI78, RPI78M,
RPI78MN, RPIMN, RQ00000007, RQ00000008, RTA402, R-Tyflam, Rubicalm,
Rubifen, Ruma pap, Rumalef, Rumidol, Rumifen, Runomex, rusalatide
acetate, ruxolitinib, RWJ445380, RX10001, Rycloser MR, Rydol, S1P
Receptor Agonists, S1P Receptor Modulators, S1P1 Agonist, S1P1
receptor agonist, S2474, S3013, SA237, SA6541, Saaz,
S-adenosyl-L-methionine-sulfate-p-toluene sulfonate, Sala,
Salazidin, Salazine, Salazopyrin, Salcon, Salicam, salsalate,
Sameron, SAN300, Sanaven, Sandimmun, Sandoglobulin, Sanexon,
SangCya, SAR153191, SAR302503, SAR479746, Sarapep, sargramostim,
Sativex, Savantac, Save, Saxizon, Sazo, SB1578, SB210396, SB217969,
SB242235, SB273005, SB281832, SB683698, SB751689, SBI087, SC080036,
SC12267, SC409, Scaflam, SCD ketoprofen, SCIO323, SCIO469, SD-15,
SD281, SDP051 antibody, Sd-rxRNA, secukinumab, Sedase, Sedilax,
Sefdene, Seizyme, SEL113, Seladin, Selecox, selectin P ligand
antibody, Glucocorticoid Receptor Agonist, Selectofen, Selektine,
SelK1 antibody, Seloxx, Selspot, Selzen, Selzenta, Selzentry,
semapimod, semapimod hydrochloride, semparatide, Semparatide,
Senafen, Sendipen, Senterlic, SEP119249, Sepdase, Septirose,
Seractil, Serafen-P, Serase, Seratid D, Seratiopeptidase, Serato-M,
Seratoma Forte, Serazyme, Serezon, Sero, Serodase, Serpicam, Serra,
serrapeptase, Serratin, Serratiopeptidase, Serrazyme, Servisone,
Seven E P, SGI1252, SGN30, SGN70, SGX203, shark cartilage extract,
Sheril, Shield, Shifazen, Shifazen-Fort, Shincort, Shincort,
Shiosol, ShK186, Shuanghuangxiaoyan, SI615, SI636, Sigmasporin,
Sigmasporin, SIM916, Simpone, Simulect, Sinacort, Sinalgia,
Sinapol, Sinatrol, Sinsia, siponimod, Sirolim, sirolimus, Siropan,
Sirota, Sirova, sirukumab, Sistal Forte, SKF105685, SKF105809,
SKF106615, SKF86002, Skinalar, Skynim, Skytrip, SLAM family member
7 antibody, Slo-indo, SM101, SM201 antibody, SM401, SMAD family
member 7 oligonucleotide, SMART Anti-IL-12 Antibody, SMP114,
SNO030908, SNO070131, sodium aurothiomalate, sodium chondroitin
sulfate, sodium deoxyribonucleotide, sodium gualenate, sodium
naproxen, sodium salicylate, Sodixen, Sofeo, Soleton, Solhidrol,
Solicam, Soliky, Soliris, Sol-Melcort, Solomet, Solondo, Solone,
Solu-Cort, Solu-Cortef, Solu-Decortin H, Solufen, Solu-Ket,
Solumark, Solu-Medrol, Solupred, Somalgen, somatropin, Sonap, Sone,
sonepcizumab, Sonexa, Sonim, Sonim P, Soonil, Soral, Sorenil,
sotrastaurin acetate, SP10, SP600125, Spanidin, SP-Cortil, SPD550,
Spedace, sperm adhesion molecule 1, Spictol, spleen tyrosine kinase
oligonucleotide, Sporin, S-prin, SPWF1501, SQ641, SQ922, SR318B,
SR9025, SRT2104, SSR150106, SSR180575, SSS07 antibody, ST1959,
STA5326, stabilin 1 antibody, Stacort, Stalogesic, stanozolol,
Staren, Starmelox, Stedex IND-SWIFT, Stelara, Stemin, Stenirol,
Sterapred, Steriderm S, Steno, Sterisone, Steron, stichodactyla
helianthus peptide, Stickzenol A, Stiefcortil, Stimulan, STNM01,
Store Operated Calcium Channel (SOCC) Modulator, STP432, STP900,
Stratasin, Stridimmune, Strigraf, SU Medrol, Subreum, Subuton,
Succicort, Succimed, Sulan, Sulcolon, Sulfasalazin Heyl,
Sulfasalazin, sulfasalazine, Sulfovit, Sulidac, Sulide, sulindac,
Sulindex, Sulinton, Sulphafine, Sumilu, SUN597, Suprafen, Supretic,
Supsidine, Surgam, Surgamine, Surugamu, Suspen, Suton, Suvenyl,
Suwei, SW Dexasone, Syk Family Kinase Inhibitor, Syn1002, Synacran,
Synacthen, Synalar C, Synalar, Synavive, Synercort, Sypresta, T
cell cytokine-inducing surface molecule antibody, T cell receptor
antibody, T5224, T5226, TA101, TA112, TA383, TA5493, tabalumab,
Tacedin, Tacgraf, TACIFc5, Tacrobell, Tacrograf, Tacrol,
tacrolimus, Tadekinig alpha, Tadolak, TAFA93, Tafirol Arno, Taizen,
TAK603, TAK715, TAK783, Takfa, Taksta, talarozole, Talfin, Talmain,
talmapimod, Talmea, Talnif, talniflumate, Talos, Talpain, Talumat,
Tamalgen, Tamceton, Tamezon, Tandrilax, tannins, Tannosynt, Tantum,
tanzisertib, Tapain-beta, Tapoein, Tarenac, tarenflurbil, Tarimus,
Tarproxen, Tauxib, Tazomust, TBR652, TC5619, T-cell, immune
regulator 1, ATPase, H+ transporting, lysosomal V0 subunit A3
antibody, TCK1, T-cort, T-Dexa, Tecelac, Tecon, teduglutide,
Teecort, Tegeline, Tementil, temoporfin, Tencam, Tendrone,
Tenefuse, Tenfly, tenidap sodium, Tenocam, Tenoflex, Tenoksan,
Tenotil, tenoxicam, Tenoxim, Tepadina, Teracort, Teradol,
tetomilast, TG0054, TG1060, TG20, TG20, tgAAC94, Th1/Th2 Cytokine
Synthase Inhibitor, Th-17 cell inhibitors, Thalido, thalidomide,
Thalomid, Themisera, Thenil, Therafectin, Therapyace, thiarabine,
Thiazolopyrimidines, thioctic acid, thiotepa, THR090717, THR0921,
Threenofen, Thrombate III, Thymic peptide, Thymodepressin,
Thymogam, Thymoglobulin, Thymoglobuline, Thymoject thymic peptides,
thymomodulin, thymopentin, thymopolypetides, tiaprofenic acid,
tibezonium iodide, Ticoflex, tilmacoxib, Tilur, T-immune, Timocon,
Tiorase, Tissop, TKB662, TL011, TLR4 antagonists, TLR8 inhibitor,
TM120, TM400, TMX302, TNF Alpha inhibitor, TNF alpha-TNF receptor
antagonist, TNF antibody, TNF receptor superfamily antagonists, TNF
TWEAK Bi-Specific, TNF-Kinoid, TNFQb, TNFR1 antagonist, TNR001,
TNX100, TNX224, TNX336, TNX558, tocilizumab, tofacitinib, Tokuhon
happ, TOL101, TOL102, Tolectin, ToleriMab, Tolerostem, Tolindol,
toll-like receptor 4 antibody, toll-like receptor antibody,
tolmetin sodium, Tongkeeper, Tonmex, Topflame, Topicort, Topleucon,
Topnac, Toppin Ichthammol, toralizumab, Toraren, Torcoxia, Toroxx,
Tory, Toselac, Totaryl, Touch-med, Touchron, Tovok, Toxic apis,
Toyolyzom, TP4179, TPCA1, TPI526, TR14035, Tradil Fort,
Traficet-EN, Tramace, tramadol hydrochloride, tranilast,
Transimune, Transporina, Tratul, Trexall, Triacort, Triakort,
Trialon, Triam, triamcinolone, triamcinolone acetate, triamcinolone
acetonide, triamcinolone acetonide acetate, triamcinolone
hexacetonide, Triamcort, Triamsicort, Trianex, Tricin, Tricort,
Tricortone, TricOs T, Triderm, Trilac, Trilisate, Trinocort,
Trinolone, Triolex, triptolide, Trisfen, Trivaris, TRK170, TRK530,
Trocade, trolamine salicylate, Trolovol, Trosera, Trosera D,
Troycort, TRX1 antibody, TRX4, Trymoto, Trymoto-A, TT301, TT302,
TT32, TT32, TT33, TTI314, tumor necrosis factor, tumor necrosis
factor 2-methoxyethyl phosphorothioate oligonucleotide, tumor
necrosis factor antibody, tumor necrosis factor kinoid, tumor
necrosis factor oligonucleotide, tumor necrosis factor receptor
superfamily, member 1B antibody, tumor necrosis factor receptor
superfamily 1B oligonucleotide, tumor necrosis factor superfamily,
member 12 antibody, tumor necrosis factor superfamily, member 4
antibody, tumor protein p53 oligonucleotide, tumour necrosis factor
alpha antibody, TuNEX, TXA127, TX-RAD, TYK2 inhibitors, Tysabri,
ubidecarenone, Ucerase, ulodesine, Ultiflam, Ultrafastin, Ultrafen,
Ultralan, U-Nice-B, Uniplus, Unitrexate, Unizen, Uphaxicam,
UR13870, UR5269, UR67767, Uremol-HC, Urigon, U-Ritis, ustekinumab,
V85546, Valcib, Valcox, valdecoxib, Valdez, Valdixx, Valdy,
Valentac, Valoxib, Valtune, Valus AT, Valz, Valzer, Vamid, Vantal,
Vantelin, VAP1 SSAO Inhibitor, vapaliximab, varespladib methyl,
Varicosin, Varidase, vascular adhesion protein-1 antibody, VB110,
VB120, VB201, VBY285, Vectra-P, vedolizumab, Vefren, VEGFR-1
Antibody, Veldona, veltuzumab, Vendexine, Venimmun N, Venoforte,
Venoglobulin-IH, Venozel, Veral, Verax, vercirnon,
vero-Dexamethasone, Vero-Kladribin, Vetazone, VGX1027, VGX750,
Vibex MTX, vidofludimus, Vifenac, Vimovo, Vimultisa, Vincort,
Vingraf, Vioform-HC, Vioxl, Vioxx, Virobron, visilizumab,
Vivaglobin, Vivalde Plus, Vivian-A, VLST002, VLST003, VLST004,
VLST005, VLST007, Voalla, voclosporin, Vokam, Vokmor, Volmax,
Volna-K, Voltadol, Voltagesic, Voltanase, Voltanec, Voltaren,
Voltarile, Voltic, Voren, vorsetuzumab, Votan-SR, VR909, VRA002,
VRP1008, VRS826, VRS826, VT111, VT214, VT224, VT310, VT346, VT362,
VTX763, Vurdon, VX30 antibody, VX467, VX5, VX509, VX702, VX740,
VX745, VX745, VX850, W54011, Walacort, Walix, WC3027, Wilgraf,
Winflam, Winmol, Winpred, Winsolve, Wintogeno, WIP901, Woncox,
WSB711 antibody, WSB712 antibody, WSB735, WSB961, X071NAB, X083NAB,
Xantomicin Forte, Xedenol, Xefo, Xefocam, Xenar, Xepol, X-Flam,
Xibra, Xicam, Xicotil, Xifaxan, XL499, XmAb5483, XmAb5485,
XmAb5574, XmAb5871, XOMA052, Xpress, XPro1595, XtendTNF, XToll,
Xtra, Xylex-H, Xynofen SR, Yang Shu-IVIG, YHB14112, YM974,
Youfeline, Youfenac, Yuma, Yumerol, Yuroben, YY piroxicam,
Z104657A, Zacy, Zaltokin, zaltoprofen, Zap70 Inhibitor, Zeepain,
Zeloxim Fort, Zema-Pak, Zempack, Zempred, Zenapax, Zenas, Zenol,
Zenos, Zenoxone, Zerax, Zerocam, Zerospasm, ZFNs, zinc oxide,
Zipsor, ziralimumab, Zitis, Zix-S, Zocort, Zodixam, Zoftadex,
zoledronic acid, Zolfin, Zolterol, Zopyrin, Zoralone, ZORprin,
Zortress, ZP1848, zucapsaicin, Zunovate, Zwitterionic
polysaccharides, ZY1400, Zybodies, Zycel, Zyrofen, Zyrogen
Inhibitors, Zyser, Zytrim, and Zywin-Forte. In addition, the
anti-inflammatory drugs, as listed above, may be combined with one
or more agents listed above or herein or with other agents known in
the art.
[0352] In one embodiment, a drug that reduces, inhibits, prevents
and/or ameliorates inflammation, for example, one of the drugs
provided above, is delivered to the suprachoroidal space of the eye
using the microneedle devices and methods disclosed herein, and is
used to treat, prevent and/or ameliorate a disease or disorder
selected from arthritis, degenerative arthritis, psoriatic
arthritis, arthritic disorders, arthritic pain, arthrosis,
autoimmune arthritis, autoimmune diseases, autoimmune disorders,
axial spondyloarthritis, chronic prosthetic joint infection,
collagen induced arthritis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis,
senile arthritis, seronegative oligoarthritis of the knee, allergic
and autoimmune inflammatory diseases, inflammatory diseases,
inflammatory disorders, collagen diseases, discoid Lupus
Erythematosus, immune deficiencies, immune diseases, immune
disorders, immunodeficiency diseases, immunodeficiency disorders,
immunoglobulin (IgG2) deficiency, immunoglobulin deficiency,
Inflammation, Lambert-Eaton myasthenia syndrome, polymyositis,
dermatomyositis, polyneuritis, post-operative ocular inflammation,
polychondritis, sporadic inclusion body myositis, Systemic Lupus
Erythematosus, T cell deficiency, TNF-receptor associated periodic
syndrome, tropical spastic paraparesis, Wegener Granulomatosis,
X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency disease, Behcet's
disease, Crohn's disease, Crohn's Fistula, cutaneous Lupus
Erythematosus, acute inflammation, acute inflammatory edema,
adrenocortical insufficiency, cerebral inflammation, chronic lung
inflammation, corticoid-responsive inflammatory skin disorders,
cutaneous inflammation, dermal inflammation, dry skin inflammatory
disease, ear edema, ear inflammation, glossitis, inflammatory bowel
disease, inflammatory degenerative disease, inflammatory disorders
of the eye and/or ear, inflammatory lesions in fungal infections,
inflammatory lesions, inflammatory pain, inflammatory skin diseases
or disorders, mouth and gum inflammation, mouth and throat
inflammation, musculoskeletal disorders, otitis, pelvic
inflammatory disease, perianal inflammation, post operative
inflammation, pulmonary inflammation, rectal inflammation,
refractory idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, seborrhoeic
dermatitis, swelling, aphthous ulcerations, chronic polyarthritis,
juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatic diseases, Sjogren's
syndrome, opthalmic for Sjogren's syndrome, transplant rejection,
acute allograft rejection, chronic graft rejection, graft versus
host disease, humoral rejection in heart transplantation, humoral
rejection in kidney transplantation, organ rejection in renal
transplantation, solid organ transplant rejection, bronchiolitis
obliterans after lung transplantation, rejection of bone marrow
transplant, chronic lung transplant rejection, Corneal graft
rejection, delayed graft function in kidney transplantation, heart
transplant rejection, Homotransplantation rejection, immune
rejection of hESC-derived therapeutic grafts, kidney transplant
rejection, liver transplant rejection, lung transplant rejection,
organ rejection, pancreatic islet transplantation rejection in type
I diabetes, renal transplant rejection and xenograft rejection.
[0353] In one embodiment, the drug delivered to the suprachoroidal
space using the microneedle devices and methods disclosed herein
treats, prevents, and/or ameliorates macular degeneration (e.g.,
age related macular degeneration, dry age related macular
degeneration, exudative age-related macular degeneration,
geographic atrophy associated with age related macular
degeneration, neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration,
neovascular maculopathy and age related macular degeneration,
occult with no classic choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in
age-related macular degeneration, Stargardt's disease, Subfoveal
wet Age-Related macular degeneration, and Vitreomacular Adhesion
(VMA) associated with Neovascular Age Related macular
degeneration). Examples of drugs that treat, prevent and/or
ameliorate macular degeneration that can be used in conjunction
with the devices and methods described herein include, but are not
limited to: A0003, A36 peptide, AAV2-sFLT01, ACE041, ACU02,
ACU3223, ACU4429, AdPEDF, aflibercept, AG13958, aganirsen,
AGN150998, AGN745, AL39324, AL78898A, AL8309B, ALN-VEG01,
alprostadil, AM1101, amyloid beta antibody, anecortave acetate,
Anti-VEGFR-2 Alterase, Aptocine, APX003, ARC1905, ARC1905 with
Lucentis, ATG3, ATP-binding cassette, subfamily A, member 4 gene,
ATXS10, Avastin with Visudyne, AVT101, AVT2, bertilimumab,
bevacizumab with verteporfin, bevasiranib sodium, bevasiranib
sodium; with ranibizumab, brimonidine tartrate, BVA301,
canakinumab, Cand5, Cand5 with Lucentis, CERE140, ciliary
neurotrophic factor, CLT009, CNTO2476, collagen monoclonal
antibody, complement component 5 aptamer (pegylated), complement
component 5 aptamer (pegylated) with ranibizumab, complement
component C3, complement factor B antibody, complement factor D
antibody, copper oxide with lutein, vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc
oxide, dalantercept, DE109, dexamethasone with ranibizumab and
verteporfin, disitertide, DNA damage inducible transcript 4
oligonucleotide, E10030, E10030 with Lucentis, EC400, eculizumab,
EGP, EHT204, embryonic stem cells, human stem cells, endoglin
monoclonal antibody, EphB4 RTK Inhibitor, EphB4 Soluble Receptor,
ESBA1008, ETX6991, Evizon, Eyebar, EyePromise Five, Eyevi, Eylea,
F200, FCFD4514S, fenretinide, fluocinolone acetonide, fluocinolone
acetonide with ranibizumab, fms-related tyrosine kinase 1
oligonucleotide, fms-related tyrosine kinase 1 oligonucleotide with
kinase insert domain receptor 169, fosbretabulin tromethamine,
Gamunex, GEM220, GS101, GSK933776, HC31496, Human n-CoDeR, HYB676,
IBI-20089 with Lucentis, iCo-008, Icon1, I-Gold, Ilaris, Iluvien,
Iluvien with Lucentis, immunoglobulins, integrin alpha5beta1
immunoglobulin fragments, Integrin inhibitor, IRIS Lutein, I-Sense
Ocushield, Isonep, isopropyl unoprostone, JPE1375, JSM6427, KH902,
LentiVue, LFG316, LP590, LPO1010AM, Lucentis, Lucentis with
Visudyne, Lutein ekstra, Lutein with myrtillus extract, Lutein with
zeaxanthin, M200, M200 with Lucentis, Macugen, MC1101, MCT355,
mecamylamine, Microplasmin, motexafin lutetium, MP0112, NADPH
oxidase inhibitors, Neoretna, neurotrophin 4 gene, Nova21012,
Nova21013, NT501, NT503, Nutri-Stulln, ocriplasmin, OcuXan, Oftan
Macula, Optrin, ORA102 with Avastin, P144, P17, Palomid 529,
PAN90806, Panzem, Panzem, PARP Inhibitors, pazopanib hydrochloride,
pegaptanib sodium, PF4523655, PG11047, piribedil, platelet-derived
growth factor beta polypeptide aptamer (pegylated),
platelet-derived growth factor beta polypeptide aptamer (pegylated)
with ranibizumab, PLG101, PMX20005, PMX53, POT4, PRS055, PTK787,
ranibizumab, ranibizumab with triamcinolone acetonide,
ranibizumabwith verteporfin, ranibizumab with volociximab, RD27,
Rescula, Retaane, retinal pigment epithelial cells, RetinoStat,
RG7417, RN6G, RT101, RTU007, SB267268, serpin peptidase inhibitor,
clade F, member 1 gene, shark cartilage extract, Shef1, SIR1046,
SIR1076, Sirna027, sirolimus, SMTD004, Snelvit, SOD Mimetics,
Soliris, sonepcizumab, squalamine lactate, ST602, StarGen, T2TrpRS,
TA106, talaporfin sodium, Tauroursodeoxycholic acid, TG100801, TKI,
TLCx99, TRC093, TRC105, triamcinolone acetonide with verteporfin,
Trivastal Retard, TT30, Ursa, ursodiol, Vangiolux, VAR10200,
vascular endothelial growth factor antibody, vascular endothelial
growth factor B, vascular endothelial growth factor kinoid,
vascular endothelial growth factor oligonucleotide, VAST Compounds,
vatalanib, VEGF Inhibitor, verteporfin, Visudyne, Visudyne with
Lucentis and dexamethasone, Visudyne with triamcinolone acetonide,
Vivis, volociximab, Votrient, XV615, zeaxanthin, ZFP TF,
zinc-monocysteine and Zybrestat. In one embodiment, one or more of
the macular degeneration treating drugs described above is combined
with one or more agents listed above or herein or with other agents
known in the art.
[0354] In one embodiment, the methods and devices provided herein
are used to delivery triamcinolone or triamcinolone acetonide to
the suprachoroidal space of an eye of a patient in need thereof. In
a further embodiment, the triamcinolone or triamcinolone acetonide
is delivered for the treatment of sympathetic ophthalmia, temporal
arteritis, uveitis and/or ocular inflammatory conditions. In one
embodiment, triamcinolone or triamcinolone acetonide is delivered
to the suprachoroidal space of the eye in a patient in need of
treatment of sympathetic opthalmia with the methods and devices
described herein. In another embodiment, triamcinolone or
triamcinolone acetonide is delivered to the suprachoroidal space of
the eye in a patient in need of treatment of temporal arteritis
with the methods and devices described herein. In yet another
embodiment, triamcinolone or triamcinolone acetonide is delivered
to the suprachoroidal space of the eye in a patient in need of
treatment of uveitis, with the methods and devices described
herein. In another embodiment, triamcinolone or triamcinolone
acetonide is delivered to the suprachoroidal space of the eye in a
patient in need of treatment of one or more ocular inflammatory
conditions, with the methods and devices described herein.
[0355] The triamcinolone composition provided herein, in one
embodiment, is a suspension comprising microparticles or
nanoparticles of triamcinolone or triamcinolone acetonide. The
microparticles, in one embodiment, have a D.sub.50 of about 3 .mu.m
or less. In a further embodiment, the D.sub.50 is about 2 .mu.m. In
another embodiment, the D.sub.50 is about 2 .mu.m or less. In even
another embodiment, the D.sub.50 is about 1000 nm or less. The
microparticles, in one embodiment, have a D.sub.99 of about 10
.mu.m or less. In another embodiment, the D.sub.99 is about 10
.mu.m. In another embodiment, the D.sub.99 is less than about 10
.mu.m or less than about 9 .mu.m or less.
[0356] In one embodiment, the triamcinolone composition comprises
triamcinolone microparticles. In a further embodiment, the
composition comprises polysorbate 80. In another embodiment, the
triamcinolone composition comprises one or more of CaCl.sub.2,
MgCl.sub.2, sodium acetate and sodium citrate. In one embodiment,
the composition comprises polysorbate 80 at a w/v % of 0.02% or
about 0.02%, 0.015% or about 0.015%.
[0357] In certain embodiments the drug delivered to ocular tissues
using the microneedle devices and methods disclosed herein treats,
prevents, and/or ameliorates fibrosis (e.g. myelofibrosis, fibrosis
in diabetic nephropathy, cystic fibrosis, scarring, and skin
fibrosis).
[0358] In one embodiment, a drug that treats, prevents and/or
ameliorates fibrosis is used in conjunction with the devices and
methods described herein, and is delivered to the suprachoroidal
space of the eye. In a further embodiment, the drug is Actimmune
with Pirfenidone, ACUHTR028, AlphaVBeta5, aminobenzoate potassium,
amyloid P, ANG1122, ANG1170, ANG3062, ANG3281, ANG3298, ANG4011,
Anti-CTGF RNAi, Aplidin, astragalus membranaceus extract with
salvia and schisandra chinensis, atherosclerotic plaque blocker,
Azol, AZX100, BB3, connective tissue growth factor antibody, CT140,
danazol, Esbriet, EXC001, EXC002, EXC003, EXC004, EXC005, F647,
FG3019, Fibrocorin, Follistatin, FT011, Galectin-3 inhibitors,
GKT137831, GMCT01, GMCT02, GRMD01, GRMD02, GRN510, Heberon Alfa R,
interferon alfa-2b, interferon gamma-1b with pirfenidone, ITMN520,
JKB119, JKB121, JKB122, KRX168, LPA1 receptor antagonist, MGN4220,
MIA2, microRNA 29a oligonucleotide, MMI0100, noscapine, PBI4050,
PBI4419, PDGFR inhibitor, PF-06473871, PGN0052, Pirespa, Pirfenex,
pirfenidone, plitidepsin, PRM151, Px102, PYN17, PYN22 with PYN17,
Relivergen, rhPTX2 Fusion Proteins, RXI109, secretin, STX100,
TGF-beta Inhibitor, transforming growth factor, beta receptor 2
oligonucleotide, VA999260 or XV615. In one embodiment, one or more
of the fibrosis treating drugs described above is combined with one
or more agents listed above or herein or with other agents known in
the art.
[0359] In one embodiment, a drug that treats, prevents and/or
ameliorates diabetic macular edema is used in conjunction with the
devices and methods described herein, and is delivered to the
suprachoroidal space of the eye. In a further embodiment, the drug
is AKB9778, bevasiranib sodium, Candy, choline fenofibrate,
Cortiject, c-raf 2-methoxyethyl phosphorothioate oligonucleotide,
DE109, dexamethasone, DNA damage inducible transcript 4
oligonucleotide, FOV2304, iCo007, KH902, MP0112, NCX434, Optina,
Ozurdex, PF4523655, SAR1118, sirolimus, SK0503 or TriLipix. In one
embodiment, one or more of the diabetic macular edema treating
drugs described above is combined with one or more agents listed
above or herein or with other agents known in the art.
[0360] In one embodiment, a drug that treats, prevents and/or
ameliorates macular edema is used in conjunction with the devices
and methods described herein, and is delivered to the
suprachoroidal space of the eye. In a further embodiment, the drug
is denufosol tetrasodium, dexamethasone, ecallantide, pegaptanib
sodium, ranibizumab or triamcinolone. In addition, the drugs
delivered to ocular tissues using the microneedle devices and
methods disclosed herein which treat, prevent, and/or ameliorate
macular edema, as listed above, may be combined with one or more
agents listed above or herein or with other agents known in the
art.
[0361] In one embodiment, a drug that treats, prevents and/or
ameliorates ocular hypertension is used in conjunction with the
devices and methods described herein and is delivered to the
suprachoroidal space of the eye. In a further embodiment, the drug
is 2-MeS-beta gamma-CCl2-ATP, Aceta Diazol, acetazolamide,
Aristomol, Arteoptic, AZD4017, Betalmic, betaxolol hydrochloride,
Betimol, Betoptic S, Brimodin, Brimonal, brimonidine, brimonidine
tartrate, Brinidin, Calte, carteolol hydrochloride, Cosopt, CS088,
DE092, DE104, DE111, dorzolamide, dorzolamide hydrochloride,
Dorzolamide hydrochloride with Timolol maleate, Droptimol,
Fortinol, Glaumol, Hypadil, Ismotic, isopropyl unoprostone,
isosorbide, Latalux, latanoprost, Latanoprost with Timolol maleate,
levobunolol hydrochloride, Lotensin, Mannigen, mannitol,
metipranolol, mifepristone, Mikelan, Minims Metipranolol, Mirol,
nipradilol, Nor Tenz, Ocupress, olmesartan, Ophtalol, pilocarpine
nitrate, Piobaj, Rescula, RU486, Rysmon TG, SAD448, Saflutan,
Shemol, Taflotan, tafluprost, tafluprost with timolol, Thiaboot,
Timocomod, timolol, Timolol Actavis, timolol hemihydrate, timolol
maleate, Travast, travoprost, Unilat, Xalacom, Xalatan or Zomilol.
In addition, the drugs delivered to ocular tissues using the
microneedle devices and methods disclosed herein which treat,
prevent, and/or ameliorate ocular hypertension, as listed above,
may be combined with one or more agents listed above or herein or
with other agents known in the art.
[0362] In certain embodiments one or more drugs may be delivered to
ocular tissues and/or into the suprachoroidal space via the systems
and devices described herein. Delivery of one or more drugs into
the suprachoroidal space using the microneedle device described
herein may be accomplished by using one or more microneedles. In
addition, combinations of one of more drugs may be delivered to the
suprachoroidal space using the microneedle device described herein
in combination with delivery of one or more drugs via intravitreal
(IVT) administration (e.g., intravitreal injection, intravitreal
implant or eye drops). Methods of IVT administration are well known
in the art. Examples of drugs that can be administered via IVT
include, but are not limited to: A0003, A0006, Acedolone, AdPEDF,
aflibercept, AG13958, aganirsen, AGN208397, AKB9778, AL78898A,
amyloid P, Angiogenesis Inhibitor Gene Therapy, ARC1905, Aurocort,
bevasiranib sodium, brimonidine, Brimonidine, brimonidine tartrate,
bromfenac sodium, Cand5, CERE140, Ciganclor, CLT001, CLT003,
CLT004, CLT005, complement component 5 aptamer (pegylated),
complement factor D antibody, Cortiject, c-raf 2-methoxyethyl
phosphorothioate oligonucleotide, cyclosporine, triamcinolone,
DE109, denufosol tetrasodium, dexamethasone, dexamethasone
phosphate, disitertide, DNA damage inducible transcript 4
oligonucleotide, E10030, ecallantide, EG3306, Eos013, ESBA1008,
ESBA105, Eylea, FCFD4514S, fluocinolone acetonide, fms-related
tyrosine kinase 1 oligonucleotide, fomivirsen sodium, fosbretabulin
tromethamine, FOV2301, FOV2501, ganciclovir, ganciclovir sodium,
GS101, GS156, hyaluronidase, IBI20089, iCo007, Iluvien, INS37217,
Isonep, JSM6427, Kalbitor, KH902, lerdelimumab, LFG316, Lucentis,
M200, Macugen, Makyueido, Microplasmin, MK0140, MP0112, NCX434,
neurotrophin 4 gene, OC10X, ocriplasmin, ORA102, Ozurdex, P144,
P17, Palomid 529, pazopanib hydrochloride, pegaptanib sodium,
Plasma Kallikrein Inhibitors, platelet-derived growth factor beta
polypeptide aptamer (pegylated), POT4, PRM167, PRS055, QPI1007,
ranibizumab, resveratrol, Retilone, retinal pigment
epithelium-specific protein 65 kDa gene, Retisert, rod derived cone
viability factor, RPE65 Gene Therapy, RPGR Gene Therapy, RTP801,
Sd-rxRNA, serpin peptidase inhibitor clade F member 1 gene,
Sirna027, sirolimus, sonepcizumab, SRT501, STP601, TG100948,
Trabio, triamcinolone, triamcinolone acetonide, Trivaris, tumor
necrosis factor antibody, VEGF/rGel-Op, verteporfin, Visudyne,
Vitrase, Vitrasert, Vitravene, Vitreals, volociximab, Votrient,
XG102, Xibrom, XV615, and Zybrestat. Accordingly, the methods of
the present invention include administrating via IVT one or more of
the drugs listed above in combination with one or more drugs
disclosed herein administered into the suprachoroidal space using
the microneedle device described herein.
[0363] In one embodiment, the drug is formulated for storage and
delivery via the microneedle device described herein. The "drug
formulation" is a formulation of a drug, which typically includes
one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipient materials known
in the art. The term "excipient" refers to any non-active
ingredient of the formulation intended to facilitate handling,
stability, dispersibility, wettability, release kinetics, and/or
injection of the drug. In one embodiment, the excipient may include
or consist of water or saline.
[0364] In one embodiment, the fluid drug formulation includes
microparticles or nanoparticles, each of which can include at least
one drug. Desirably, the microparticles or nanoparticles provide
for the controlled release of drug into the ocular tissue. As used
herein, the term "microparticle" encompasses microspheres,
microcapsules, microparticles, and beads, having a number average
diameter of 1 to 100 .mu.m, most preferably 1 to 25 .mu.m. The term
"nanoparticles" are particles having a number average diameter of 1
to 1000 nm. Microparticles may or may not be spherical in shape.
"Microcapsules" are defined as microparticles having an outer shell
surrounding a core of another material. The core can be liquid,
gel, solid, gas, or a combination thereof. In one case, the
microcapsule may be a "microbubble" having an outer shell
surrounding a core of gas, wherein the drug is disposed on the
surface of the outer shell, in the outer shell itself, or in the
core. Microbubbles may respond to acoustic vibrations as known in
the art for diagnosis and/or can be used to burst the microbubble
to release its payload at/into a select ocular tissue site.
"Microspheres" can be solid spheres, can be porous and include a
sponge-like or honeycomb structure formed by pores or voids in a
matrix material or shell, or can include multiple discrete voids in
a matrix material or shell. The microparticle or nanoparticles may
further include a matrix material. The shell or matrix material may
be a polymer, amino acid, saccharride, or other material known in
the art of microencapsulation.
[0365] The drug-containing microparticles or nanoparticles may be
suspended in an aqueous or non-aqueous liquid vehicle. The liquid
vehicle may be a pharmaceutically acceptable aqueous solution, and
optionally may further include a surfactant. The microparticles or
nanoparticles of drug themselves may include an excipient material,
such as a polymer, a polysaccharide, a surfactant, etc., which are
known in the art to control the kinetics of drug release from
particles.
[0366] In one embodiment, the fluid drug formulation further
includes an agent effective to degrade collagen or GAG fibers in
the sclera, which may enhance penetration/release of the drug into
the ocular tissues. This agent may be, for example, an enzyme, such
a hyaluronidase, a collagenase, or a combination thereof. In a
variation of this method, the enzyme is administered to the ocular
tissue in a separate step from--preceding or following--infusion of
the drug. The enzyme and drug are administered at the same
site.
[0367] In another embodiment, the drug formulation is one that
undergoes a phase change upon administration. For instance, a
liquid drug formulation may be injected through hollow microneedles
into the suprachoroidal space, where it then gels and the drug
diffuses out from the gel for controlled release.
[0368] While the embodiments and methods herein describe delivering
a medicament to a target tissue, the embodiments described herein
can be configured to facilitate a biopsy procedure and/or removal
of a substance from a target location.
[0369] While the embodiments have been described above in use on
ocular tissue, in some instances, the embodiments and methods
described herein can be used on any other suitable bodily tissue.
For example, in some instances, the use of an adjustable length
needle can be beneficial in conjunction with standard phlebotomy
techniques during drug infusion and/or blood draw from a vein.
Thus, while the embodiments and methods are specifically described
above in use on ocular tissue, it should be understood that the
embodiments and methods have been presented by way of example only,
and not limitation.
[0370] While various embodiments have been described above, it
should be understood that they have been presented by way of
example only, and not limitation. Where methods described above
indicate certain events occurring in certain order, the ordering of
certain events may be modified. Additionally, certain of the events
may be performed concurrently in a parallel process when possible,
as well as performed sequentially as described above.
[0371] Although the systems and methods are shown and described
herein as providing for delivery of medicaments in the
suprachoroidal space, in other embodiments, the systems and the
methods described herein can be applicable for delivery of any
suitable therapeutic substance to any portion of the eye, such as,
the cornea, the retinal area or the vitreous. In other embodiments,
any of the systems, methods and devices described herein can be
used to deliver any suitable therapeutic substance to any desired
target tissue (including non-ocular tissue).
[0372] Where schematics and/or embodiments described above indicate
certain components arranged in certain orientations or positions,
the arrangement of components may be modified. Similarly, where
methods and/or events described above indicate certain events
and/or procedures occurring in certain order, the ordering of
certain events and/or procedures may be modified. While the
embodiments have been particularly shown and described, it will be
understood that various changes in form and details may be
made.
[0373] For example, although the injector assembly 2100 is shown
and described as including a biasing member 2146 configured to
exert a force to move the actuator 2320 to assist in the delivery
of a medicament, in other embodiments, the injector assembly 2100
(and any other injector assemblies shown and described herein) can
include any suitable mechanism for producing a force to move the
actuator 2320. For example, in some embodiments, an injector
assembly can include a stored energy member, such as a propellant
canister, a compressed gas container, a magnetic energy storage
member, an electronic energy storage member (e.g., a battery or a
capacitor) or the like.
[0374] Although various embodiments have been described as having
particular features and/or combinations of components, other
embodiments are possible having a combination of any features
and/or components from any of embodiments as discussed above. For
example, while the extraction member 21280 is described as being
included in the system 21000 and configured to be coupled to the
medicament container 21310, in some embodiments, the device 2000,
3000, or any other device described herein can be used with and/or
include the extraction member 21280, or any other extraction member
described herein. Furthermore, while the needle assembly 3200 is
shown as being included in the system 3000, in some embodiments,
the system 2000, 21000, or any other medical injector described
herein can also include the needle assembly 3200 or any other
needle assembly described herein. Moreover, while the injection
assembly 2100 is described as included with the system 2000, in
some embodiments, the injection assembly 2100 can also be included
in the system 3000, 21000 or any other system described herein.
Similarly, any of the systems described herein (e.g., the system
2000, 3000, or 21000) can include or configured to be coupled to a
hub that includes a convex distal end surface such as, for example,
the hub 7270, 8270, or 9270.
* * * * *