Design of Efficient Dry Powder Inhalers

An efficient inhalation delivery system, like a dry powder inhaler (DPI), needs intensive optimization for physiological variations and limitations of the human respiratory system. The significant features of a DPI are that it is portable, free from propellant, easy to operate and cost-effective with better stability of the drug formulation, and is breath actuated. However, a DPI has a relatively complex delivery system and its performance is determined by a number of parameters with complex interrelationships. An optimal formulation integrated with robust aerosol release system is required for an DPI device to succeed in producing consistent dosing. Treating infection in the lungs using DPI delivered aerosolized antibiotics has recently gained attention. Efficient design of DPI lies in optimization of flow and aerosol movement from the DPI device to deep into the lungs, and are predicted using the computational technique. This chapter encompasses the evolution of DPI design and discusses mechanical, computational, and pharmacological factors associated with an efficient DPI design.