Formulation for delivery of drugs by metered dose inhalers with reduced or no chlorofluorocarbon content

• US 5,190,029 A
• Filed: 06/26/1991
• Issued: 03/02/1993
• Est. Priority Date: 02/14/1991
• Status: Expired due to Term

• Current Assignee: The Center For Innovative Technology
• Original Assignee: Virginia Commonwealth University
• Inventors: Byron, Peter R., Dalby, Richard N.
• Primary Examiner(s): Lovering, Richard D.
• Application Number:
  US07/721,698
• Time in Patent Office: 615 Days
• Field of Search: 252/305, 424/45, 424/46, 222/635, 128/203.15, 128/203.23, 128/200.14, 128/200.23
• US Class Current: 128/200.14
• CPC Class Codes: A61K 9/008 comprising drug dissolved or suspended in liquid propellant for inhalation via a pressurized metered dose inhaler [MDI]

Abstract

Aerosol formulations for use in metered dose inhalers are disclosed which include 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane alone and in combination with other compounds as well as various hydrocarbon blends. The density, vapor pressure, flame extension characteristics, dispersability of medicant, dissolvability of surfactant, respirable fraction, and compatibility elastomer seals for the aerosol formulations have been examined. The aerosol formulations are attractive alternatives to chlorofluorocarbon based aerosols since they do not deplete the ozone layer.

Claims

1. A metered dose inhaler, comprising:

a container capable of holding fluids under pressure;

a valve connected to said container;

gaskets associated with said valve selected from the group consisting of low density polyethylene, butyl elastomer, and neoprene; and

an aerosol formulation positioned within said container, said aerosol formulation including a drug dissolved or dispersed in 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, said 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane being the sold propellant of said aerosol formulation.

2. A metered dose inhaler, comprising:

a container capable of holding fluids under pressure;

a valve connected to said container;

gaskets associated with said valve selected from the group consisting of low density polyethylene and chlorobutyl elastomer; and

an aerosol formulation positioned within said container including a drug dissolved or dispersed in dimethyl ether.

3. A metered dose inhaler, comprising:

a container capable of holding fluids under pressure;

a valve connected to said container;

nitrile gaskets associated with said valve; and

an aerosol formulation positioned within said container including a drug dissolved or dispersed in a propellant blend including at least 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane and an alkane propellant.