Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- - 1 -
INHALER
The present invention relates to an inhaler, more
particularly an inhaler for administering dry powder, a
support unit for an inhaler and a suction tube for an
inhaler.
It is known in the treatment of respiratory conditions such
as asthma to provide certain medicaments in the form of dry
powder for inhalation.
It is also known to provide individual doses of such powders
in the blisters of a blister pack. With such blister packs,
however, either the user has manually to peel away the
covering film from an individual blister to access the dose
of powder or a complex device is required for rupturing the
covering film or the cup-shaped portion of an individual
blister. tnThere the user has manually to peel away the
coverir_g film, the task of finding the edge of the covering
film and peeling the same away without spilling any of the
powder contained therein can be difficult for some patients,
particularly the young, the elderly or those actually
exper_encing an asthma attack. On the other hand, known.
devices for automatically rupturing a blister are complex and
therefore costly to produce. Indeed, such known devices -or
rupturing the covering film or the cup-shaped portion o= an
indiz~~idual blister can lead to parts of the covering film or
the cup-shaped portion becoming detached, with the associated
AMENDED SH~~~
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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risk of those parts being inhaled. Furthermore, it has
proved extremely difficult to rupture the covering film or
the cup-shaped portion of a blister in such a way as to
ensure that all of the powder is removed from the blister or
at least that a consistent proportion of the powder is
removed.
US-A-2549303 discloses an inhaler for administering dry
powder containing medicament. The inhaler comprises a
cartridge which includes a compartment which has a rupturable
wall and contains dry powder containing medicament and a
suction tube one end of which includes a frusto-conical
extension for rupturing the rupturable wall of the cartridge
and the other end of which is adapted for insertion into a
respiratory orifice through which a user inhales.
tnl0-A-96/09085 discloses a device for aerosolizing dry powder
containing medicament contained in a blister. The device
comprises a dispersion chamber from which dry powder when
dispersed is inhaled by a user, a feed tube assembly one end
of which is in fluid communication with the dispersion
chamber and the other end of which includes a oiercina
mec:nar~=_sm for rupturing the covering film of a blister, a
feed tube through which powder is drawn from the blister and
at lea=~ one air flow channel through which fluidizing air is
drawn into the blister, and a pressurized gas source for
delivering a high pressure gas to the feed tube assembly by
means of which the powder in the blister is drawn into the
AMENDED SHf~T
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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dispersion chamber. The feed tube assembly is configured
such that the high pressure gas draws fluidizing air through
the at least one air flow channel into the blister where the
powder contained therein is entrained and then through the
feed tube into the dispersion chamber.
It is an aim of the present invention to provide an improved
inhaler.
The present invention provides an inhaler for administering
dry powder, comprising. a suction tube having an inlet at one
end and an outlet at the other end, the suction tube
including at the one end an inlet section configured for
insertion into a blister containing a dose of powder
containing medicament and an inhalation channel providing
fluid communication between the inlet and the outlet through
which powder is in use drawn on inha~_ation by a user; and a
support unit for supporting a blister pack having a
substantially planar surface with a plurality of blisters
formed therein, the support unit including a guide wall
adjacent which the substantially planar surface of the
blister pack is in use disposed, the guide wall including a
plurality of apertures acting as guide portions in alignment
with respective blisters of the blister pack, each aperture
being for guiding the inlet section of the suction tube into
a respective blister of the blister pack and supporting the
suction tube when so guided.
AMENDED SHfE~
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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Thus, the present invention provides an inhaler which is
relatively simple to construct, of relatively low cost to the
user and simple to use, but yet extremely effective in
removing powder from a blister.
Furthermore, since the suction tube is a component separate
from the blister pack, advantageously the suction tube can be
easily cleaned as and when required. Indeed, the suction
tube can be cleaned in any way, including total immersion in
water, without there being any risk of contaminating or
interfering with the operation of the inhaler. This is in
contrast with known devices for automatically rupturing the
covering film of a blister, where, even if the powder for
administration is sealed in blisters, residual powder which
has accumulated in other, particularly more complicated,
parts of the device may not be fully removed and may
interfere with the correct operation of the device after
being dampened through a washing operation.
In one embodiment the support unit is a container within
which the blister pack is in use housed.
Preferably, the support unit includes a support member
including a plurality of cavities for receiving respective
blisters of the blister pack, the cavities having the same
arrangement as the apertures in the guide wall such that in
use the blisters of the blister pack oppose the respective
apertures.
r
i:'~,9._~~Li~~l Si'~~~
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
More preferably, the support member is adapted to be
slideable relative to the guide wall so as to allow loading
and unloading of blister packs.
In another embodiment the support unit includes holding means
for holding the substantially planar surface of the blister
pack adjacent the guide wall.
Preferably, the holding means comprises C-shaped lips for
slideably receiving the blister pack.
Preferably, the apertures are defined by elongate sections.
More preferably, the length of the elongate sections is
greater than the width of the blisters of the blister pack.
Preferably, the support unit includes one or more projections
or recesses of predetermined size and position such that the
support unit can only receive blister packs with
correspondir_g recesses or projections.
IMOre preferably, the one or more projections or recesses are
sized and positioned such that the support unit can only
rece_ve blister packs in one relative orientation.
Preferably, the inlet section of the suction tube and each o=
the apertures are configured such that the inlet section of
. ,::,
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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the suction tube can only be inserted through the apertures
in one relative orientation.
More preferably, the cross-section of the inlet section of
the suction tube and the cross-section of each of the
apertures is rotationally asymmetric.
Yet more preferably, each of the apertures is generally
circular in shape with at least one radial extension.
Still more preferably, a plurality of the apertures are
linked by at least one radial extension.
Preferably, the support unit includes a holder for holding
the suction tube when not in use.
More preferably, the holder comprises a chamber with a hinged
lid.
Preferably, the inlet section of the suction tube includes a
cutter having a cutting edge for cutting a covering film of ._
blister of the blister pack.
By providing the suction tube with a cutter the covering fil~..
of a blister is only cut when the suction tube is inserted
into the blister. In this way, spillage as may occur when
handling a blister pack with an open blister containing
powder can be avoided.
AMENDED SHAT
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
More preferably, the cutter is located around only a part of
the inlet of the suction~tube such that upon insertion of the
inlet section of the suction tube into a blister of the
blister pack the cutter cuts the covering film of the blister
such as to leave a single cut film flap.
In this way, the covering film of a blister is never cut free
and thus cannot be inhaled by a user.
Yet more preferably, the cutting edge of the cutter is
disposed at the outer peripheral surface of the inlet section
of the suction tube such that when the inlet section of the
suction tube is inserted into a blister of the blister pack
the cutter first cuts the covering film of the blister and
then the inner peripheral surface of the inlet section of t't_e
suction tube pushes the cut film flap into the blister.
Preferably, the cutter comprises a plurality of axially
extending blades, each having cutting edges, separated by
axially-extending gaps.
Such a cutter arrangement ensures that ar_ air flo~,~~ path
exists between a blister and the inlet of the suction tube
since air can always flow through the axially-extending gaps.
Furthermore, by virtue of the relationship between the bladEvS
and the gaps, the covering film will tear to bridge the gaps
between the blades.
AMENDED SH~~T
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
g
Preferably, the inlet section of the suction tube includes at
least one passageway for providing fluid communication
between a blister of the blister pack and a space above the
blister when the inlet section of the suction tube is
inserted in the blister.
In this way, powder may be assuredly drawn from a blister
since an air flow path is provided to the blister. In
particular, by providing air flow paths at the outer
periphery of a blister powder is more completely removed from
the blister.
In one embodiment the at least one passageway comprises an
open channel in the outer peripheral surface of the inlet
section of the suction tube, the at least one passageway
having one end located at a position along the length of the
inlet section of the suction tube and the other end located
adjacent the inlet of the suction tube.
Preferably, the other end of the at least one passageway is
located adjacent the cutter.
Irl one preferred embodiment the other erld cf the at least one'
passage~,aay is located at one of the gaps.
In another preferred embodiment the other end of the at leas-
one passageT,aay is located between adjacent gaps.
ar~icPluED SHE~t
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
_ g
In another embodiment the at least one passageway comprises a
conduit in the inlet section of the suction tube, the at
least one passageway having an inlet located at a position
along the length of the inlet section of the suction tube and
an outlet located adjacent the inlet of the suction tube.
Preferably, the outlet of the at least one passageway is
located adjacent the cutter.
In one preferred embodiment the outlet of the at least one
passageway is located at one of the gaps.
In another preferred embodiment the outlet of the at least
one passageway is located between adjacent gaps.
Preferably, the suction tube includes at least one passacewa,~
providing fluid communication between the inhalation chanr_el
and the atmosphere through which supplementary air is ir: use
drawn into the inhalation channel on inhalation by the user.
Preferably, the inlet section of the suction tube includes a
radiall_y-extending member defining a shoulder at a
predetermined axial distance form the distal end thereof, t
shoulder being configured so as in use to abut the blister
pack and prevent the inlet section of the suction tube frcm
being inserted too far into a blister of the blister pac'.c.
AMEfVDED SN~fT
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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Preferably, the inhaler further comprises a member connecting
the suction tube to the support unit in order to prevent the
suction tube and the support unit from being separated from
one another.
The present invention also extends to the above-described
inhaler in combination with a blister pack.
The present invention also provides a support unit for
supporting a blister pack having a substantially planar
surface with a plurality of blisters formed therein, the
support unit including a guide wall adjacent which the
substantially planar surface of the blister pack is ir_ use
disposed, the guide wall including a plurality of apertures
acting as guide portions in alignment with respective
blisters of the blister pack, each aperture being for guiding
the inlet section of a suction tube into a respective blister
of the blister pack and supporting the suction tube when so
guided.
In one embodiment the suooort unit is a container within
which the blister pack is in use housed.
Preferably, the support unit includes a support member
including a plurality of ca~.rities for receiving respective
blisters of the blister pack, the cavities having the same
arrangement as the apertures in the guide wall such that in
AMENDED SHEET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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use the blisters of the blister pack oppose the respective
apertures.
'More preferably, the support member is adapted to be
slideable relative to the guide wall to allow loading and
unloading of blister packs.
In another embodiment the support unit includes holding means
for holding the substantially planar surface of the blister
pack adjacent the guide wall.
Preferably, the holding means comprises C-shaped lips for
slideably receiving the blister pack.
Preferably, the apertures are defined by elongate sections.
More preferably, the length of the elongate sections is
greater than the width of the blisters of the blister pac::.;.
Preferably, the support unit includes one or more project,-ons
o_r recesses of predetermined size and position. so as to 'c=
able to receive only blister packs with corresponding
recesses or projections.
More preferably, the one or more projectier~ or recesses ___
sized and positioned such that blister packs can only be
received in or_e relative orientation.
AMENDED SH~~~
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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Preferably, each of the apertures is configured such that the
inlet section of a suction tube can only be inserted through
the apertures in one relative orientation.
More preferably, the cross-section of each of the apertures
is rotationally asymmetric.
Yet more preferably, each of the apertures is generally
circular in shape with at least one radial extension.
Still more preferably, a plurality of the apertures are
linked by at least one radial extension.
Preferably, the support unit includes a holder for holding a
suction tube.
More preferably, the holder comprises a chamber with a hinges
lid.
The present invention also extends to the above-described
support unit ir_ combination with a blister pack.
The present in-Mention further provides an inhaler for
aa~'ninistering dry powder, comprising: a suction tube having
an inlet at one end and an outlet at the other er:d, the
suction tube ir_cluding at the one end an ir.,~e-~ section
configured for insertion. into a blister containing a dose of
powder containing medicament and an inhalation charnel
AMENDED SHEET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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providing fluid communication between the inlet and the
outlet through which powder is in use drawn on inhalation by
a user; and a support unit for supporting a blister pack
having a substantially planar surface with a plurality of
blisters formed therein, the support unit including a guide
wall adjacent which the substantially planar surface of the
blister pack is in use disposed, the guide wall including a
plurality of apertures acting as guide portions in alignment
with respective blisters of the blister pack, each aperture
being for guiding the inlet section of the suction tube into
a respective blister of the blister pack and supporting the
suction tube when so guided; wherein the inlet section of the
suction tube and each of the apertures are configured such
that the inlet section of the suction tube can only be
inserted through the apertures in one relative orientation.
In one embodiment the support unit is a container withir_
whic:~. the blister pack is in use housed.
Preferably, the support unit includes a support member
including a plurality of cavities for receiving respective
blis~ers of the blister pack, the cavities having the same
arra~ge~er_t Gs the apertures in the guide wall such that in
use the blisters of the blister pack oppose the respective
aper ~v~r es .
::a,~~~aDE~ S~f~~
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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More preferably, the support member is adapted to be
~lideable relative to the guide wall so as to allow loading
anc.~ unloading of blister packs.
In another embodiment the support unit includes holding mean:
for holding the substantially planar surface of the blister
pack adjacent the guide wall.
Preferably, the holding means comprises C-shaped lips for
slideably receiving the blister pack.
Preferably, the apertures are defined by elongate sections.
More preferably, the length of the elongate sections is
greater than the width of the blisters of the blister pack.
Preferably, the support unit includes one or more projection.
or recesses of predetermined size and position such that the
support unit can only receive blister packs with
corresponding recesses or projections.
Fore preferably, the one or more projections or recesses are
sized and positioned such that the support unit can onl-:
receive blister packs in or_e relative orierl~atior:.
Preferably, the cross-section of the inlet section of tr_e
suction tube and the cross-section of each oL the a~ert~~res
is rotationally asymmetric.
AMENDED SHEET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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More preferably, each of the apertures is generally circular
in sizape with at least one radial extension.
Yet more preferably, a plurality of the apertures are linked
by at least one radial extension.
Preferably, the support unit includes a holder for holding
the suction tube when not in use.
More preferably, the holder comprises a chamber with a hinged
lid.
Preferably, the inlet section of the suction tube includes a
cutter having a cutting edge for cutting a covering film of a
blister of the blister pack.
More preferably, the cutter is located around only a part of
the in'et of the suction tube such that upon insertion of the
inlet section of the suction. tube into a blister of the
blister pack the cutter cuts the covering film of the blister
such as to leave a single cut film flap.
Yet move preferably, the cutting edge of the cutter is
dis~~osed at the outer peripheral surface of the inlet sect,-c;_~
of the suction tube such that when the inlet section of the
suction tube is inserted into a blister of the blister pack
the cutter first cuts the covering film of the blister and
AMENDED SHEET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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then the inner peripheral surface of the inlet section of the
suction tube pushes the cut film flap into the blister.
Preferably, the cutter comprises a plurality of axially
extending blades, each having cutting edges, separated by
axially-extending gaps.
Preferably, the inlet section of the suction tube includes at
least one passageway for providing fluid communication
between a blister of the blister pack and a space above the
blister when the inlet section of the suction tube is
inserted in the blister.
In one embodiment the at least one passageway comprises an
open channel in the outer peripheral surface of the inlet
section of the suction tube, the at least one passageway
having one end located at a position along the length of the
inlet section of the suction tube and the other end located
adjacent the inlet of the suction tube.
Preferably, the other end or the at least one passageway i~
located adjacent the cutter.
In one preferred embodimer~~ the other end of the at least o~.
passageway is located at or_e of the gaps.
In ar_other preferred embodiment the other end of the at leas-
one passageway is located between adjacent gaps.
A~IcNDtD S~;'r'r
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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In another embodiment the at least one passageway comprises a
conduit in the inlet section of the suction tube, the at
least one passageway having an inlet located at a position
along the length of the inlet section of the suction tube and
an outlet located adjacent the inlet of the suction tube.
Preferably, the outlet of the at least one passageway is
located adjacent the cutter.
In one preferred embodiment the outlet of the at least one
passageway is located at one of the gaps.
In another preferred embodiment the outlet of the at least
one passageway is located between adjacent gaps.
Preferaply, the suction tube includes at least one passageway
providing fluid communication between the inhalation channel
and t~_e atmosphere through which supplementary air is in use
dr=~.an Into the inhalation channel on inhalation by the user.
Pr=fer~bly, the inlet section of the suction tube includes a
ra~.ia~_-_-~-extending member defining a shoulder at a
prede~ermined axial distance form the distal end thereof, the
sh:v~ld== being configured so as in use to abut the blis~er
pack aid preT.rent the inlet section of the suction tube from
be_.g _~?serted too far into a blister of the blister pack.
AMENDED SHEET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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Preferably, the inhaler further comprises a member connecting
the suction tube to the support unit in order to prevent the
suction tube and the support unit from being separated from
one another.
The present invention also extends to the above-described
inhaler in combination with a blister pack.
The present invention yet further provides a suction tube for
administering dry powder from a blister sealed by a covering
film, the suction tube having an inlet at one end and an
outlet at the other end, and including at the one end an
inlet section configured for insertion into a blister
containing a dose of powder containing medicament and an
inhalation channel providing fluid communication between the
inlet and the outlet through which powder is in use drawn or,
inhalation by a user, wherein the inlet section includes a
cutter located around only a part of the inlet such that upon
insertion of the inlet section into a blister the cutter cuts
the covering film of the blister such as to leave a single
cut film flay.
Preferably, the cutting edge of the cutter is disposed a~ the
outer periphe=al surface oz the inlet section such that -~~se~~:
the ir~~et sec~ion is inserted into a blister the cutter 'ir~=t
cuts the covering film of the blister and then the inner
peripheral surface of the inlet section pushes the cut film
flap into the blister.
AMENDED SH~~i~
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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Preferably, the cutter comprises a plurality of axially
extending blGdes, each having cutting edges, separated by
axially-extending gaps.
Preferably, the inlet section includes at least one
passageway for providing fluid communication between a
blister and a space above the blister when the inlet section.
is inserted in the blister.
In one embodiment the at least one passageway comprises an
open channel in the outer peripheral surface oz the inlet
section, the at least one passageway having one end located
at a position along the length of the inlet section and the
other end located adjacent the inlet of the suction tube.
Preferably, the other end of the at least one passageway is
located adjacent the cutter.
Ir_ one preferred embodiment the other end of the at least o~..e
passages.~Tay is located at one of the gaps.
Ir_ another preferred embodiment the other end o= the at lea=~.
or_e passage~r~ay is located between adjacent gaps.
Ir_ another embodiment the at least one passage~.aay comprises
co-~duit in the inlet section, the at least one passage~:,-ay
hawing an inlet located at a position along the length of tr_e
AMENDED SNE~T
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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inlet section and an outlet located adjacent the inlet of the
suction tube.
Preferably, the outlet of the at least one passageway is
located adjacent the cutter.
In one preferred embodiment the outlet of the at least one
passageway is located at one of the gaps.
In another preferred embodiment the outlet of the at least
one passageway is located between adjacent gaps.
Preferably, the inhaler includes at least one passageway
providing fluid communication between the inhalation channel
and the atmosphere through which supplementary air is in use
drawn into the inhalation channel on inhalation by the user.
Preferably, the inlet section includes a radially-extending
member defining a shoulder at a predetermined axial distance
form the distal end thereof, the shoulder being configured so
as in use to abut a blister pace which includes at least ore
blister and pre~.rent the inlet section from being inserted too
far into the at least one blister.
The present invention still furthe- provides a suction tube
for administering dry powder from a blister sealed by a
covering film, r_he suction tube havir~g an ir:let at one end
and an outlet at the other end, and including an inlet
~~~IVDED .~i-itt~
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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section at the one end, the inlet section being configured
for insertion ir:to a blister containing a dose of powder
containing medicament and including at least one first
passageway for providing fluid communication between the
blister and a space above the blister when the inlet section
is inserted in the blister, an inhalation channel providing
fluid communication between the inlet and the outlet through
which powder is in use drawn on inhalation by a user and at
least one second passageway providing fluid communication
between the inhalation channel and the atmosphere through
which supplementary air is in use drawn into the inhalation
channel on inhalation by the user.
Preferably, the inlet section includes a cutter having a
cutting edge for cutting the covering film of a blister.
More preferably, the cutter is located around only a part of
tr~e inlet of tre suction tube such that upon insertion of the
inlet section into a blister the cutter cuts the covering
f_1.;: of the blister such as to leave a single cut film flap.
Yet :none preferably, the cutting edge of the cutter is
c-sposed at the outer peripheral surface of the inlet section:
sv.~c~ t':lat when the inlet section is inserted into a blister
the cutter first cuts the covering film of the blister a~:d
t~_~_er_ the inner peripheral surface of the inlet section pushes
t~:e cut film flap into the blister.
AMENDED SHf~T
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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Preferably, the cutter comprises a plurality of axially-
extending blades, each having cutting edges, separated by
axially-extending gaps.
In one embodiment the at least one first passageway comprises
an open channel in the outer peripheral surface of the inlet.
section, the at least one first passageway having one end
located at a position along the length of the inlet section
and the other end located adjacent the inlet of the suction
tube.
Preferably, the other end of the at least one first
passageway is located adjacent the cutter.
In one preferred embodiment the other end of the at least one
first passageway is located at one of the gaps.
In another preferred embodiment the other end of the at least
one first passage~.aay is located between adjacent gaps.
In another embodiment the at least one first passageway
comprises a conduit in the inlet section, the at least one
first passage~Nay having an inlet located at a position alone
tt-~e length of the inlet section and an outlet located
adjacent the inlet of the suction tube.
Preferably, the cutlet of the at least one first passageway
is located adjacent the cutter.
AMEiVDED SHf~~
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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In one preferred emi~odiment the outlet of the at least one
first passageway is located at one of the gaps.
In another preferred embodiment the outlet of the at least
one first passageway is located between adjacent gaps.
Preferably, the inlet section includes a radially-extending
member defining a shoulder at a predetermined axial distance
form the distal end thereof, the shoulder being configured so
as in use to abut a blister pack which includes at least or_e
blister and prevent the inlet section from being inserted too
far into the at least one blister.
The present invention also further provides ar_ inhaler for
administering dry powder, comprising: a blister pack
including a plurality of blisters each containing a dose of
po~~rder containing medicament, each blister comprising a cup--
shaped portion containing a dose of powder containing
.-;edicament, an elongate section extending axially from the
cup-shaped portion for guiding the inlet section of a suctio_-_
ube thereinto and a covering film sealing the dose of ~owd~:=
con~a~.ning medicament in the cup-shaped portion and
separa~ing the cup-shaped portion from tile elongate sectW~r_;
G _ 1G a s a c t i o n t a be h av i ng an i n l a t a t o ne a nd a n d a n c
v.~ - l a
a~. _he other end, the suction tube including an inlet section
a~ -.he one end and an inhalation channel providing fluid
c om_r;unicati on between the inlet and the outl et throug~~ -~~r,~c-~:
AME-~VDED SHEEN
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 24 -
powder is in use drawn on inhalation by a user, wherein the
inlet section is configured for insertion into the elongate
section and corresponding cup-shaped portion of a respective
one of the blisters of the blister pack, the cross-section of
the elongate sections corresponding to the cross-section of
at least a part of the inlet section of the suction tube such
that on insertion of the inlet section of the suction tube
into the elongate sections the inlet section of the suction
tube is guided into the corresponding cup-shaped portion.
By providing each blister with an elongate section the
suction tube is always correctly inserted into the blisters.
Furthermore, since the suction tube is positively guided into
each blister, the user has a feeling of confidence when using
the inhaler.
Preferably, the length of the elongate sections is greater
than the width of the blisters of the blister pack.
Preferably, the inlet section of the suction tube and the
elor_gate sections are configured such that the inlet section
of the suction tube can only be inserted into the elongate
sections in one relative orientation.
More preferably, the cross-section of the inle~ section o
the suction tube and the cross-section of the elongate
sections is rotationally asymmetric.
AiI~ENDED ;u~c-~
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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Preferably, the inlet section of the suction tube includes a
cutter having a cutting edge for cutting the covering film
sealing the cup-shaped portion of a blister of the blister
pack.
More preferably, the cutter is located around only a part of
the inlet of the suction tube such that upon insertion of the
inlet sect-ion of the suction tube into the cup-shaped portion
of a blister of the blister pack the cutter cuts the covering
film sealing the cup-shaped portion such as to leave a single
cut film flap.
Yet more preferably, the cutting edge of the cutter is
disposed at the outer peripheral surface of the inlet section
of the suction tube such that when the inlet section of the
suction tube is inserted into the cup-shaped portion of a
blister of the blister pack the cutter first cuts the
covering film sealing the cup-shaped portion and then the
inner peripheral surface of the inlet section of the suction:
tube pushes the cut film flan into the cup-shaped portion.
Preferably, the cutter comprises a plurality of axially
extending blades, each having cutting edges, separated by
GxiG'~ly-extending gaps.
Preferably, r_he inlet section of the suction tube include) G
l~as~ one passageway for providing fluid commur:ication
between the cup-shaped portion of a blister of the blister
=~rT
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 26 -
pack and a space above the cup-shaped portion of the blister
when the inlet section of the suction tube is inserted in the
cup-shaped portion of the bli.~ter.
In one embodiment the at least one passageway comprises an
open channel in the outer peripheral surface of the inlet
section of the suction tube, the at least one passageway
having one end located at a position along the length of the
inlet section of the suction tube and the other end located
adjacent the inlet of the suction tube.
Preferably, the other end of the at least one passageway is
located adjacent the cutter.
In one preferred embodiment the other end of the at least one
passageway is located at one of the gaps.
In another preferred embodiment the other end of the at least
one passageway is located between adjacent gaps.
In another embodiment the at least one passageway comprises a
conduit in the inlet section of the suction tube, the at
least one passageway having an inlet located at a position
along the length of the inlet section of the suction tui~e a_-_c
an outlet locat'd adjacent the inlet of the suction tube.
Preferably, the outlet of the at least one passageway is
located adjacent the cutter.
_,
r:~ =:~ -.-, -..~,-T
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 27 -
In one preferred embodiment the outlet of the at least one
passageway is located at one oZ the gaps.
In another preferred embodiment the outlet of the at least
one passageway is located between adjacent gaps.
Preferably, the suction tube includes at least one passageway
providing fluid communication between the inhalation channel
and the atmosphere through which supplementary air is in use
drawn into the inhalation channel on inhalation by a user.
Preferably, the inlet section of the suction tube includes a
radially-extending member defining a shoulder at a
predetermined axial distance form the distal end thereof, the
shoulder being configured so as in use to abut the blister
pack and prevent the inlet section of the suction tube from
being inserted too far into the cup-shaped portion of a
blister of the blister pack.
Preferably, the inhaler further comprises a member connecting
the suction tube to the blister pack in order to prevent the
s-,.:c~ion tube and the blister pack from being separated =wpm
c-?e another .
'~~e present invention still yet further provides a blister
pac'.~ including a plurality of blisters each containing a dose
c- powder containing medicament, each blister comprising a
AMENDED SHEET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 28 -
cup-shaped portion containing a dose of powder containing
medicament, an elongate section extending axially from the
cup-shaped portion for guiding the inlet section of a suction
tube thereinto and a covering film sealing the dose of powder
containing medicament in the cup-shaped portion and
separating the cup-shaped portion from the elongate section.
Preferably, the length of the elongate sections is greater
than the width of the blisters.
Preferably, the elongate sections are configured such that an
inlet section of a suction tube can only be inserted
thereinto in one relative orientation.
More preferably, the cross-section of the elongate sections
is rotationally asymmetric.
Medicaments suitable for administration by the present
invention are any which may be delivered by inhalation and
include for example (32-adrenoreceptor agonists, for
example, salbutamol, terbutaline, rimiterol, fenoterol,
reprcterol, adrenaline, pirbuterol, isoprenaline,
orciprenalir_e, bitolterol, salmeterol, formoterol,
clenbutercl, prccaterol, broxaterol, picumeterol, TA-2005,
mabuterol. ar~d t~.e like, and their pharmacologically
acceptable esters and salts; anticholinergic
broncnodilac.ors, for example, ipratropium bromide and the
AMENDFD ~N~~r
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 29 -
like; glucocorticosteroids, for example, beclomethasone,
fluticasone, budesonide, tipredane, dexamethasone,
betamethasone, fluocinolone, triamcinolone acetonide,
mometasone and the like, and their pharmacologically
acceptable esters and salts; antiallergic medicaments, for
example, sodium cromoglycate and nedocromil sodium;
expectorants; mucolytics; antihistamines; cyclooxygenase
inhibitors; leukotriene synthesis inhibitors; leukotriene
antagonists; phospholipase-A2 (PLA2) inhibitors; platelet
aggregating factor (PAF) antagonists and prophylactics of
asthma; antiarrhythmic medicaments; tranauilisers; cardiac
glycosides; hormones; antihypertensive medicaments;
antidiabetic medicaments; antiparasitic medicaments;
anticancer medicaments; sedatives; analgesic medicaments;
antibiotics; antirheumatic medicaments; immunotherapies;
antifungal medicaments; antihypotension medicaments;
vaccines; antiviral medicaments; proteins; polypeptides and
peptides, for example, peptide hormones ar_d growt:r: facLOrs;
polypeptide vaccines; enzymes; endorphines; lipoproteins
and polypeptides involved in the blood coagulation. cascade;
-,ri ~_amins ; and others , for ea:ample , cel l sun face receptor
blockers, antioxidants, free radical scavengers ar~d organ,~c
sa ps of N,N'-diacetylcystine.
. .. _. ~--,r~.
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 30 -
Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be
described hereinbelow by way of example only with reference
to the accompanying drawings, in which.
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of an inhaler in
accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;
Figures 2 to 4 illustrate respectively top, end and side
views of the support unit of the inhaler of Figure 1;
Figures 5 and 6 illustrate in enlarged scale orthogonal side
views of the suction tube of the inhaler of Figure 1;
Figure 7 illustrates in enlarged scale a horizontal sectional
view (along section I-I ir~ Figure 6) of the suction tube of
the inhaler of Figure l;
Figure 8 illustrates in enlarged scale a top view of the
upper, mouthpiece end of the suction tube of the inhaler o~=
Figure 1;
Figure 9 illustrates in enlarged scale a bottom view oz t~:~~=
lower end of the suction! tube cf the inhaler of Figure ,
Figure 10 illustrates in enlarged scale t~:e T~ie~f~ of Figure 9 ;
AMENDED SHEET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 31 -
Figure 11 illustrates in enlarged scale a vertical sectional
view (along section II-II in Figure 6; of the suction tube of
the inhaler of Figure 1;
Figure 12 illustrates in enlarged scale a vertical sectional.
view (along section III-III in Figure S) of the suction tube
of the inhaler of Figure 1;
Figure 13 illustrates in enlarged scale a vertical sectional
view (along section IV-IV in Figure 1) of the inhaler of
Figure 1, illustrated in use with a blister pack contained in
the support unit;
Figure 14 illustrates in enlarged scale a fragmentary
vertical sectional view (along section IV-IV in Figure 1) of
the inhaler of Figure 1, illustrated in use with a blister
pack contained in the support unit;
Figure 15 illustrates in enlarged scale a fragmentary
vertical sectional view (along section V-V in Figure 1) of
t:-~e inhaler of Figure 1, illustrated in use with a blister
pack contained in the support unit;
Fyu-a -~5 illustrates a fragmentary top w~ew of a Tnodified
support unit ~cr the inhaler of Figure 1;
AMENDED SH~~T
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 32 -
Figure 17 illustrates in enlarged scale a bottom view of the
lower end of a modified suction tube for the inhaler of
Figure l;
Figure 18 illustrates in enlarged scale a fragmentary
vertical sectional view (along section VI-VI in Figure 17 and
corresponding to section IV-IV in Figure 1) of the suction
tube of Figure 17 and the support unit of the inhaler of
Figure 1, illustrated in use with a blister pack contained ~.n
the support unit;
Figure 19 illustrates a blister pack for the inhaler of
Figure l;
Figure 20 illustrates a perspective view of an inhaler in
accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.;
Figure 21 illustrates a perspective view of a support unit
for the inhaler of Figure 20;
Figure 22 illustrates in enlarged scale a fragmentary
vertical sectional view (along section VII-VII in Figure 21)
of the support unit of Figure 21;
Figure 23 illustrates in enlarged scale a fragmentary top
view of the support unit of Figure 21;
:-~,~:=:dJrC SH~t-~
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 33 -
Figure 24 illustrates in enlarged scale a fragmentary top
view of a modified support unit for the inhaler of Figure 20;
Figure 25 illustrates in enlarged scale a fragmentary
vertical sectional view (along section VIII-VIII in Figure
24) of the support unit of Figure 24;
Figure 26 illustrates a top view of a further modified
blister pack for the inhaler of Figure 1;
Figure 27 illustrates in enlarged scale a fragmentary top
view of the blister pack of Figure 26;
Figure 28 illustrates in enlarged scale a fragmentary
vertical sectional view (along section IX-IX in Figure 27) of
a modified tray for the support unit of the inhaler of Figure
1, illustrated with the blister pack of Figure 26 located
thereon; and
Figure 29 illustrates a top vie.~: of a yet further modified
blister pack for the inhaler of Figure 1.
Figures 1 to 16 illustrate an inhaler or com~orents thereof
in accordance with a first embodiment of the pr~ser:t
invention.
The inhaler comprises a support unit V for supporting a
blister pack B and a suction tube S. In a preferred
AMENDED SHEEP
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 34 -
embodiment a protective cover may be provided for the support
unit V.
The support unit V, in this embodiment a container, houses a
blister pack B, such as illustrated in Figure 19, the
respective blisters 8 of which each contain a dose of powder-
containing medicament 9. The support unit V includes an
array of apertures 15 which provide guide portions
corresponding respectively to the array of blisters 8 in the
blister pack B. The support unit V is typically of a size
similar to a tissue or cigarette pack.
The suction tube S is preferably of a length which
corresponds approximately to the small finger of an adult
human hand. In use, one end section 19 providing an inlet,
an inlet section, of the suction tube S is inserted into one
of the apertures 15 and pushed down so as to rupture the
covering film 14' of the blister 8 therebeneath.
As will be described hereinbelow, the suction tube ~ includes
an ir_halation channel 31 which extends between the inlet
section 19 providing an inlet and an outlet section 17
providing an outlet and acting as a mouthpiece. Trus, fiitr
the inlet section 19 inserted into a blister 8, when a user
in~ales through the outlet section 17 the dose of powder
containing medicament 9 in the blister 8 is drawn trough the
inhalation channel 31. As will be apparent, successive doses
of powder containing medicament 9 are obtained by
AMENDED SH~Ei
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 35 -
successively inserting the suction tube S into an aperture 15
corresponding to a previously unused blister 8.
In this embodiment the support unit V includes a chamber 34
in which the suction tube S is stored when not in use. The
chamber 34 is closed by a lid 33 which is hinged about a pair
of opposing hinge pins 35. The closing joint of the lid 33
is obliquely directed so as to maximise the surface area of
the gripping portion on the lid 33. The closing joint is
preferably at an angle of 45° with respect to the planar
extent of the support unit V. Other arrangements are, of
course, possible. For instance, the suction tube S could be
inserted axially into an opening in the side of the support
unit V. In any arrangement an elongate brush could be
provided onto which the suction tube S is fitted. In this
caav, whenever the suction tube S is stored, the suction tube
S is not only held in place by virtue of the brush extending
through the inhalation channel 31, but is also cleaned.
Indeed, as the suction tube S is pulled off the brush, the
suction tube S is cleaned immediately prior to use.
a preferred embodiment, in order to prevent the suction
~v~be S ar_d the support unit T~' from being separated and one
beina lost, the suction tube S can be attached to the support
uni' V by a member, such as a cord, particularly a very fi-~e
w art cord-like member. In a particularly pre=erred
eM.bodiment the inhaler can include a sprung mechanism by
m___-ar_s of whicr: the member can be automatically retracted back
AMENDED SHEEN
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 36 -
into one or other of the suction tube S and the support unit
V. For example, the member could be wound around a roller
which unwinds against a relatively gentle resilient force.
The blister pack B to be used in the inhaler of this
embodiment is preferably of the kind as illustrated in Figure
19. The blister pack B comprises a generally planar thin
sheet 11 having a plurality of cup-shaped portions or
depressions 10 formed therein each containing a dose of
powder containing medicament 9. The blister pack B further
comprises a thin film 14, such as a foil, preferably of
aluminium, which covers the openings to the cup-shaped
portions 10 and thereby seals the doses of powder containing
medicament 9 in the cup-shaped portions 10 to provide
blisters 8.
As described hereinabove, a blister pack B is located in the
support unit V such that individual blisters 8 are positioned
directly beneath respective apertures 15. In this embodiment
the support unit V includes a substantially planar guide wa-i-~_
6 agair_st which the substantially planar surface of the
blister pack B is disposed. The guide wall 6 includes tie
plurality of apertures 15 which provide the guide portios
that guide the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S into
respective blisters 8 in such a manner that the suction tuh~=
S cannot tilt relative to the support unit V. The aperture:
15 may take the form of frames surrounding the blisters 8.
In this embodiment, however, the under surface of the guide
~~~~DEO S'rIEE't
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 37 -
wall 6 is provided with elongate ribs 6', which, as
illustrated in Figure 13, space the blister pack B from the
under surface of the guide wall 6. The elongate ribs 6' are
located between adjacent rows of apertmres 15 and extend
across the width of the support unit V. The elongate ribs 6'
act to hold a blister pack B securely with respect to the
guide wall 6 and a supporting tray 3 as will be described
hereinbelow. By providing a space between the substantially
planar surface of the blister pack B and the guide wall 6 a
good flow of air around and into the cup-shaped portion 10 of
any particular blister 8 is ensured.
As in this embodiment, the support unit V is preferably
configured to allow the blister pack B to be replaced, such
that one support unit V may be used with successive blister
packs B as each is exhausted. It is possible to provide mar_y
different mechanisms for loading and unloading a blister pac'.~c
B to and from the support unit V, such as by providing a
hinged back part. In this embodiment the support unit ~%
includes a slideable tray 3. The tray 3 is slideable ir_ and
out of one end of the support ur_it V and is preferably
provided with a plurality of depressions or cavities 12
n~a-~ing the same arrangement as t~e blisters 8 in the blister
pack B. In this way, the blister pack B may be laid onto the
tray 3 when withdrawn and securely located thereto such that
when the tray 3 is inserted back into the support unit V the
b,_isters 8 are correctly aligned with the apertures 15 in. the
g~.~ide wall 6 of the support unit V. The cavities 12
r~
r
~ _.,:~~ F- ;
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 38 -
correspond, at least in outline, to the cup-shaped portions
of the blisters 8 in the blister pack B, which, as
illustrated, are cylindrical in the region adjacent the
covering film 14'. The cavities 12 define a crater-like
structure ordered in the form of criss-crossing rows, with
partition walls 13 supporting the blister pack B. In this
embodiment, in order to facilitate removal of the tray 3, the
tray 3 is provided with a tab or handle 4 which protrudes
into a recess S in the guide wall 6. As illustrated, the
recess 5 is formed in one short side of the guide wall 6
without any overhang. In a preferred embodiment the tray 3
is provided with a catch to secure the same in the loaded
position. The catch may be provided merely as a detent on
the tray 3 or as part of the handle 4, such that the tray 3
is only released when the user deflects the handle 4 in some
way. As illustrated, in order to enable the tray 3 to be
slid in and out of the support unit V, the support unit V
includes guides 7 having a generally C-shaped profile.
As described hereinabove and best illustrated by the cross-
sections of Figures 11 and 12, the suction tube S generally
comprises an elongate body having an inlet section 19
providing an inlet at one end, an our_let section i7 providing
an outlet and acting as a mouthpiece at the other end and an
inhalation channel 31 providing fluid communication between
the ir_let and the outlet. In this embodiment the outlet
section 17 of the suction tube S is generally oval in shape,
whereas the inlet section 19 is generally circular in shape.
AMENDED SH~~T
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 39 -
As will become apparent, this configuration is not essential,
but is advantageous. In particular, a flattened oval section
is more comfortable in the mouth than a circular section.
Furthermore, by shaping the inhalation channel 31 so as to
flare outwardly from the inlet to the outlet, a higher
velocity air flow is achieved at the inlet, thereby improving
both the removal of the dose of powder containing medicament
9 from the blister 8 and the deagglomeration of that powder.
As illustrated, despite the inhalation channel 31 being
tapered, the outer shape of the suction tube S is generally
oval along most of the length thereof, at least up to a
shoulder 21 which in use abuts the upper surface of the guide
wall 6. The flats of the oval provide surfaces which can be
gripped by the fingers of a user. In this embodiment, in
order to maintain the oval shape, ribs 18 are provided down
the length of the suction tube S. The provision of the ribs.
18 is preferred in allowing for the suction tube S to be
gripped securely by a user. A secure grip vs necessary since
some force has to be applied to the suction tube S on
insertion into an aperture 15 in order to rupture the
covering film 14' sealing the opening to the cup-shaped
portion 10 of the respective blister 8.
___ this embodiment, as illustrated, axially ac the bottom o~:
the plurality of ribs 18, and just axially above the shoulder
21, the suction tube S includes passageways 32 in fluid
comr.ur_ication with the inhalation channel 31. The
AMEfJDED SHEET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 40 -
passageways 32, in this embodiment transversely directed to
the longitudinal axis of the suction tube S, provide
supplementary air flow paths which allow supplementary air to
be drawn into the inhalation channel 31 and mix with the air
and powder mixture drawn through the inhalation channel 31
from the blister 8. The provision of such supplementary
passageways 32 provides that for each unit volume of air
inhaled the user inhales a reduced amount powder containing
medicament. Furthermore, the action of the supplementary air
mixing with the air and powder mixture flowing through the
inhalation channel 31 induces turbulence and assists in the
deagglomeration of that powder. This effect is enhanced by
the inhalation channel 31 being tapered as described
hereinabove. Preferably, the cross-section of the
passageways 32 together correspond approximately to the
circular cross-section of the inhalation channel 31 in the
inlet section 19 of the suction tube S.
As described hereinabove, the passageways 32 are located
adjacent the shoulder 21. The location of the passageways =;2
ir_ this position is advantageous since, when the inlet
section 19 of the suction tube S is inserted into an aperture
15, the presence of the adjacent guide wall 6 ensures that ___
is almost impossible for a user accidentally to block the
supplementary passageways 32 with his or her fingers.
In this embodiment, as best illustrated ir~ Figures 11 and 1
the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S includes a
AMENDED SHEET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 41 -
generally annular cutter 20. The inlet section 19 of the
suction tube S is shaped to fit securely in the apertures 1S,
whilst allowing air to be drawn down around the outer
peripheral surface thereof into the ruptured i:lister 8 below.
In this embodiment the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S
is matched cross-sectionally to the shape of the apertures 15
which are preferably circular such that an interruption free,
well supporting contact is achieved with the guide wall 6.
In this embodiment the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S
is a plug connection having frictional contact with the
apertures 15.
As described hereinabove, the suction tube S includes a
shoulder 21 which, in use, rests in a tilt-preventing manner
on the upper surface of the guide wall 6 so as to ensure that
the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S is always inserted
into each aperture 15 and associated blister 8 to the same
extent. It will, of course, be appreciated that the inlet
section 19 of the suction tube S is of such a length as to
position the inlet of the suction tube S in that position in
the cup-shaped portion 10 of a blister 8 most suited to
withdrawing therefrom the dose of powder containing
medicament 9.
In this embodiment the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S
includes passageways 29 formed as axially-directed chanr:els
in the outer peripheral surface thereof. As will become
appare~_t hereinbelow and, indeed, as illustrated in Figure
AMENDED SHEET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 42 -
14, the passageways 29 provide an air flow path from above
the surface of the blister pack B to a pos-tion below the
ruptured covering film 14' of a blister 8. In this way,
during inhalation through the suction tube S, air is drawn
down through the passageways 29 and into the cup-shaped
portion 10 of the blister 8 so as to pick up the dose of
powder containing medicament 9 contained therein. The
resulting air and powder mixture containing medicament is
then drawn through the inhalation channel 31 and into the
lungs of a user.
As illustrated, the cutter 20 includes a plurality of cutting
blades 28 arranged around a greater part of the outer
peripheral surface thereof. In this embodiment, where the
cutter 20 is considered to comprise four sectors, the cutter
20 includes part-annular cutting blades 28 in three of the
four sectors, with one sector not including a cutting blade
28. The sectors and hence cutting blades 28 are separated
from one another by gaps 26. In this embodiment, as
illustrated in Figures 5 and 15, the non-cutting sector of
the cutter 20 tapers inwardly to the distal end of the cuttev
20. Indeed, the cutter 20 may generally be angled relative
to the longitudinal axis of the suction tube S such that the
cutting blade 28 opposite the non-cutting sector contacts t.~_~
covering film 14' of the respective blister 8 before the
other cutting blades 28.
AMENDED SN~ET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 43 -
In use, when the suction tube S is inserted into one of the
apertures 15, the cutting blades 28 of the cutter 20 come
into contact with an unbroken covering film 14'. Upon
inserting the suction tube S further into the aperture 15,
the cutting blades 28 begin to cut the covering film 14'. It
will, of course, be appreciated that the covering film 14'
opposing the gaps 26 is not cut directly by one of the
cutting blades 28, but rather, the gaps 26 are of such a size
relative to the cutting blades 28 and the blister 8 that the
covering film 14' tears so as to provide a continuous cut in
the covering film 14' between the cutting blades 28. As
mentioned hereinabove, the cutting blades 28 of the cutter 20
do not extend around the entire annulus of the inlet section
19 of the suction tube S, but the cutter 20 includes a
sector, preferably of about 90°, which does not cut the
coverir_g film 14'. In this embodiment the non-cutting sector
of the cutter 20 does not contact the covering film 14' until
the cutting blades 28 have cut the covering film 14' and are
located in the cup-shaped portion 10 of the blister 8. The
cutting blades 28 are sharpened cutting edges provided by the
full radial thickness of the cutter 20, with the cutting
edges being disposed at t?-ie outer radial surface of the
radial thickness of the cutter 20. Therefore, as the inset.
section 19 of the sucticr tube S is pushed further into the
blister 8, the cut covering film 14' is pushed downwards by
the cutter 20. That sine a section of the covering film 14'
which is not cut thus acts as a hinge 27. ~Jith the inlet
section 19 of the suction. tube S fully inserted into the
AMENDED SHEET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 44 -
blister 8 the non-cutting sector of the cutter 20 contacts
the covering film 14', but only to ensure that the cut
covering film 14' is pushed down into the cup-shaped portion
of the blister 8, thereby ensuring that the inlet of the
suction tube S defined by the cutter 20 is open to the
interior of the blister 8_
In a preferred embodiment the covering film 14' is cut so as
to leave the hinge 27 at an upper side as viewed in Figure 1.
In normal use, the support unit V will be held as illustrated
in Figure 1, whereby the doses of powder containing
medicament 9 in the individual blisters 8 will collect away
from the hinge 27 allowing unimpeded withdrawal.
It will be appreciated that the above-described cutting and
insertion arrangement ensures not only reliable and
consistent cutting of the covering films 14', but also that a
cut covering film 14' is retained by the hinge 27 and cannot
be inhaled by a user. In addition, the passageways 29 ___ the
outer radial surface of the inlet section 19 of the suction
tube S cannot be blocked by the covering film 14' and ensure
that air is effectively drawn into the blister 8 under t~_e
covering film 14'. The passageways 29 also direct air i~-_:c
the outer periphery of the cup-shaped portion 1G or the
blister 8 at a plurality of positions so as to ensure tha-
all of the dose of powder containing medicament 9 in the
blister 8 is exposed to a flow of air. Furthermore, the gars
26 between the cutting blades 28 ensure that the resulting
AMENDED SHEET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 45 -
air and powder mixture is always able to flow past the cut
covering film 14' and into the inhalation channel 31.
Referring to Figure 2, it will be noted that the apert~~res 1.5
in the guide wall 6 of the support unit V include radial
extensions 16, 16', 16" . Indeed, in order to use the space
available most efficiently, horizontally adjacent apertures
15 are linked by a common extension 16. Corresponding to the
extensions 16, 16', 16 " the inlet section 19 of the suctior_
tube S is provided with protrusions 23, 24. The
corresponding extensions 16, 16', 16 " and protrusions 23, 24
fix the suction tube S more securely in the apertures 15 and
therefore make the inhaler easier and more pleasing to, use.
The use of an asymmetric arrangement of extensions 16, 16',
16 " and protrusions 23, 24_ means that the suction tube S may
only be inserted in one particular predetermined orientation.
This provides more consistent and pleasing operation for the
user. Furthermore, if the cup-shaped portions 10 of the
blisters 8 have an asymmetric shape, the suction tube S is
advantageously always inserted with the correct orientation.
Irrespective of the nature or the blisters 8, ensuring that
the suction tube S can only be inserted into each aperture 15
with one orientation has the advantage that the user is only
able to insert the suctior~ tube S into a previously used
blister with the same orientation as was previously used. Ir
a user were accidentally to be able to insert the suction
tube S into a previously used blister with another
~'~1~~~'1(1F'1 nNf_r
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 46 -
orientation to that used previously, then the cut covering
film 14' could be cut free, with the risk that the user could
inhale the same. However, with the preferred arrangement
described above, this is not possible.
As illustrated in Figure 14, the protrusions 23, 24 abut the
top surface of the blister pack B_ Indeed, where provided,
the protrusions 23, 24 define a shoulder 22 that in use abuts
the blister pack B. The abutment of the shoulder 22 fixes
the blister pack B against the upper side of the partition
walls 13 circumscribing the respective cavity 12. In this
way, it is ensured that, irrespective of the position of the
shoulder 22 because of variations occurring for instance for
tolerance reasons, the cutter 20 is not inserted too far into
a blister 8. This is particularly important, since, if the
inlet section 19 of the suction tube S were inserted too far,
the non-cutting sector of the cutter 20 could tear the
covering film 14', causing the covering film 14' to be cut
free.
Of course, it will be appreciated that it is possible to use
many other different shapes for fixing the orienta'ion of the
suction tube S relative to the support unit V. Figure 15
illustrates one possibility, namely the use or apertures 15
with flattened sides 37. Preferably, the flattened sides 37
lie diametrically opposite the non-cutting sector of the
cutter 20. This configuration requires an even shorter
length of cut and the opening at the end face of the inlet
AMENDED SHEET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 47 -
section 19 of the suction tube S is thus kept even more free.
Moreover, due to gravity, the dose of powder containing
medicament 9 accumulates-in front of the free end of the
covering film 14'.
Figures 17 and 18 illustrate a modified suction tube S for
the inhaler of the first embodiment. In this suction tube S
the passageways 29 are not channels in the outer peripheral
surface of the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S, but
are conduits within the tubular member defining the inlet
section 19 of the suction tube S having broad sector-shaped
outlets 29 " adjacent the cutting blades 28 and between the
gaps 26 and inlets 29' in the outer peripheral surface,of the
inlet section 19. This modified suction tube S
advantageously provides a flow of air into the blister 8
around a greater length of the periphery thereof.
Figures 20 to 25 illustrate an inhaler or components thereof
in accordance with a second embodiment of the preser~t
invention.
The inhaler comprises a support unit G and a suction tube S.
The suction tube S is of the same kind as described
hereirabove in relation tc the inhaler of the first
embodiment. The support unit G comprises a guide wall 6 of
essentially the same kind as described hereinabove in
relation to the inhaler of the first embodiment, with stubs
36 defining the apertures 15 that act as guide portions. The
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- 48 -
stubs 36 receive the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S
such that the suction tube S is not able to tilt. In a
preferred embodiment the~support unit G is formed of a
plastics material.
In a first variant, as illustrated in Figure 21, the support
unit G is an integral part of a blister pack. The guide wall
6 of the support unit G is fixed, for instance, by adhesive
or heat sealing to the covering film 14 of a blister pack B
of the same kind as described hereinabove in relation to the
inhaler of the first embodiment.
In a second variant the support unit G is adapted for use
with successive blister packs B of the same kind as described
hereinabove in relation to the inhaler of the first
embodiment. This variant of the support unit G includes
means for releasably securing a blister pack B to the unaer
surface of the guide wall 6 thereof and holding the same in
the correct relative position. In a preferred embodimen'
three of the four edges of the guide wall 6 could be pros.-iaed
with ger_erally C-shaped lips, such that a blister pack E
could be slid into position from that edge without such a
lip.
Functionally, the support unit G of this e:nbodimen~ is u=ea
in the same way as the support unit V described hereinabc-re
in relation to the inhaler of the first embodiment. In
particular, the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S w_vc~:
AMENDED SHfET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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includes the cutter 20 is inserted into a respective aperture
15 so as to rupture the respective covering film 14'.
In a preferred embodiment the support unit G includes means
for attaching the suction tube S thereto, for example, one or
more clips such as resilient claws.
In the variant of the support unit G as illustrated in
Fiaures 21 to 23 neither the stubs 36 of the guide wall 6 nor
the inlet section 19 of the suction tube S are configured so
as to ensure that the suction tube S can only be inserted in
one relative orientation into a respective stub 36. However,
it will, of course, be appreciated that the stubs 36 and the
inlet section 19 of the suction tube S can be so configured.
In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated in Figures 24 and
25 and similarly to the modified support unit V as
illustrated in Figure 16, the apertures 15 of the stubs 36
may each be provided with a flattened portion 37 to ensure
that the suction tube S is always inserted into an aperture
15 with the same relative orientation.
In the support units G of Figures 22 and 23 and Figures 24
and 25 the stubs 36 have the same cross-section as the upper
sections of the cup-shaped portions 10 of the blisters 8. In
particular, the blisters 8 of the support unit G of Figures
2:~ and 25 each have a flattened portion 38 which matches the
flattened portion 37 of each stub 36. However, it is not
necessary for the stubs 36 to be of the same shape as the
d~r~itNDED SNEL ;
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
_ 50 _
cup-shaped portions 10 of the blisters 8. Desirably, that
part of inlet section 19 of the suction tube S which is
inserted into a blister 8 should encompass substantially all.
of the area of the opening of the blister 8 so as to promote
the withdrawal of the dose of powder containing medicament 9
from the blister 8. However, other portions of the suction
tube S may extend radially beyond the opening of the blister
8. In this way, the stubs 36 can be of any shape or size.
Indeed, if at least part of the stubs 36 has a radial
dimension greater than that of the blisters 8, the suction
tube S may include a shoulder such as shoulder 22 described
hereinabove in relation to the inhaler of the first
embodiment.
In the preferred inhalers of the above-described first and
second embodiments the inlet sections 1° of the suction tubes
S and the apertures 15 in the guide walls 6 of the support
units V, G are configured so as to ensure that the suction
tubes S can only be inserted through respective apertures 15
in one relative orientation. It is, however, further
preferred that the inlet sections 19 of the suction tubes S
and the apertures 15 ir. the support units V, G be shaped
and/or sized according to the medicament of use so as to
avoid the possibility of cross-contamination of medicaments.
It is envisaged that cross-contamination or medicaments cou-d
possibly occur where a user has to take two or more ditferen~
medicaments, but by shaping and/or sizing the suction tubes S
and the apertures 15 in the support units V, G uniquely
~~I_~".if?f:~i " ___ ,
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
- Sl -
according to the medicament the possibility of the user
inadvertently using the wrong suction tube S is obviated_
Furthermore, where the support units V, G are reusable, it is
important that blister packs B are loaded into support units
V, G with the same orientation and that any loaded blister
pack B contains the correct medicament. It is, therefore,
preferred that the blister packs B include a physical feature
representative of the orientation and/or the contained
medicament. In an electronically-controlled inhaler the
blister packs B could be provided with electronically-
readable information, such as a magnetic strip or optically-
readable bar coding. However, in relatively simple inhalers
of the kind as described hereinabove it is proposed to
provide the blister packs B with features having particular
shapes, sizes and positions representative of the orientation
and/or the contained medicament. In particular, in order to
ensure that blister packs B are loaded into support units V,
G with the correct orientation, the features are
asymmetrically disposed with respect to the possible
orientations for insertion.
A blister pack B modified to include features representative
of the orientation and/or the contained medicament is
illustrated in Figures 26 and 27. This modified blister pac:~
B includes first, second and third openings 4C in the sheet
11 in which the cup-shaped portions 10 of the blisters 8 are
formed. The openings 4C are located in the intermediate
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CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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zones 39 between the cup-shaped portions 10 defining the
blisters 8. In the illustrated embodiment the openings 40
are hidden by the covering film 14. In a preferred
embodiment the openings 40 are located at the corners of a
square or rectangle. This modified blister pack B is
particularly suited to the inhaler of the first embodiment
where the blister pack B is laid onto a tray 3 which is then
slid into a support unit V. A tray 3 modified to receive
such a blister pack B is illustrated in Figure 28. The tray
3 includes protrusions 41 corresponding in size, shape and
position to the openings 40 in the blister pack B. In this
way, when the blister pack B is laid onto the tray 3 in the
correct orientation the protrusions 41 fit into the openings
40. As will be apparent from Figure 26, if the blister pack
B were to be laid onto the tray 3 with the opposite
orientation, the protrusions 41 on the tray 3 would not align
with the openings 40 in the blister pack B, such that the
blister pack B would stand proud of the tray 3 and prevent
the tray 3 from being slid into the support unit V. The
asymmetric arrangement of the openings 40 and the protrusior_s
41 ensures that the blister pack B cannot be loaded into the
support unit V with the incorrect orientation. It will
further be appreciated that by selecting a different
asymmetric arrangement of openings 40 and protrusions 41 fov
each different medicament, then blister packs B containing
only the correct medicament can be loaded into the support
unit V. In the illustrated embodiment the blister pack B
includes twenty intermediate zones 39 in ~.ahich openings 40
AAAEND.EO SHEET
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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could be formed, thus giving scope for many possible
combinations.
In the above-described modified blister pack B the openings
40 and the projections 41 have a lozenge-shaped or square
outline. Other configurations are, of course, possible. One
such further blister pack B is illustrated in Figure 29.
This further modified blister pack B includes first and
second slits 40 that extend inwardly from the peripheral edge
42. In this modified blister pack B the first and second
slits 40 are paracentral and extend oppositely in a direction
parallel to the narrow sides and over a length greater than
half of the length of the narrow sides. In this way, the
slits 40 overlap each other in the central region of the
blister pack B. For such a modified blister pack B the tray
3 of the support unit V would, for example, include web or
blade like protrusions.
In a yet further modified blister pack B the blisters 8 could
be shaped and/or positioned to identify the orientation
and/or the contained medicament. Alternatively, the blister
pack B could include small appropriately-positioned
protrusions which could be formed in the same thermoforming
step as the cup-shaped portions 10 of the blisters 8.
For the above-described variant of the support unit G of the
inhaler of the second embodiment which is reusable,
protrusions and/or recesses can be provided on the upper
~~~'N~~ ;;H~r;
CA 02250031 1998-09-25
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substantially planar surface of the blister pack B and the
under surface of..the guide wall 6 of the support unit G which
opposes the same. Specifically, in the preferred embodiment
of the support unit G which includes C-shaped lips on
opposing edges for receiving a blister pack B, the support
unit G could be tapered such that only correspondingly-
tapered blister packs B could be received in the one
orlentatlon.
AMENpF~ SH~~T
