EP1796770A1 - Procédés, systèmes et dispositifs d"administration pulmonaire non-invasive - Google Patents

Procédés, systèmes et dispositifs d"administration pulmonaire non-invasive

Info

Publication number
EP1796770A1
EP1796770A1 EP05786427A EP05786427A EP1796770A1 EP 1796770 A1 EP1796770 A1 EP 1796770A1 EP 05786427 A EP05786427 A EP 05786427A EP 05786427 A EP05786427 A EP 05786427A EP 1796770 A1 EP1796770 A1 EP 1796770A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
aerosol
active agent
connector
patient
aerosolized active
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP05786427A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Ralph Niven
Wiwik Watanabe
Matthew Thomas
David Brown
Mark Johnson
Maithili Rairkar
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Discovery Laboratories Inc
Original Assignee
Discovery Laboratories Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US11/130,783 external-priority patent/US20060078506A1/en
Priority claimed from US11/209,588 external-priority patent/US20060120968A1/en
Application filed by Discovery Laboratories Inc filed Critical Discovery Laboratories Inc
Publication of EP1796770A1 publication Critical patent/EP1796770A1/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M11/00—Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes
    • A61M11/001—Particle size control
    • A61M11/003—Particle size control by passing the aerosol trough sieves or filters
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M15/00—Inhalators
    • A61M15/0001—Details of inhalators; Constructional features thereof
    • A61M15/0003—Details of inhalators; Constructional features thereof with means for dispensing more than one drug
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M15/00—Inhalators
    • A61M15/0001—Details of inhalators; Constructional features thereof
    • A61M15/0005—Details of inhalators; Constructional features thereof with means for agitating the medicament
    • A61M15/0006—Details of inhalators; Constructional features thereof with means for agitating the medicament using rotating means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M15/00—Inhalators
    • A61M15/0086—Inhalation chambers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M15/00—Inhalators
    • A61M15/02—Inhalators with activated or ionised fluids, e.g. electrohydrodynamic [EHD] or electrostatic devices; Ozone-inhalators with radioactive tagged particles
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/06—Respiratory or anaesthetic masks
    • A61M16/0666—Nasal cannulas or tubing
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/08—Bellows; Connecting tubes ; Water traps; Patient circuits
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/08—Bellows; Connecting tubes ; Water traps; Patient circuits
    • A61M16/0808—Condensation traps
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/08—Bellows; Connecting tubes ; Water traps; Patient circuits
    • A61M16/0816—Joints or connectors
    • A61M16/0841—Joints or connectors for sampling
    • A61M16/085—Gas sampling
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/08—Bellows; Connecting tubes ; Water traps; Patient circuits
    • A61M16/0816—Joints or connectors
    • A61M16/0841—Joints or connectors for sampling
    • A61M16/0858—Pressure sampling ports
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/10—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours
    • A61M16/105—Filters
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/10—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours
    • A61M16/14—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours by mixing different fluids, one of them being in a liquid phase
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M11/00—Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes
    • A61M11/005—Sprayers or atomisers specially adapted for therapeutic purposes using ultrasonics
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/08—Bellows; Connecting tubes ; Water traps; Patient circuits
    • A61M16/0816—Joints or connectors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2206/00—Characteristics of a physical parameter; associated device therefor
    • A61M2206/10—Flow characteristics
    • A61M2206/16—Rotating swirling helical flow, e.g. by tangential inflows

Definitions

  • the invention is directed to methods, systems and devices for pulmonary delivery of aerosolized active agents in combination with positive pressure or mechanical ventilation therapies and methods of treating respiratory dysfunction.
  • RDS meconium aspiration syndrome
  • PPHN pulmonary hypertension
  • AKDS acute respiratory distress syndrome
  • FUF TTN and the like often require prophylactic or rescue respiratory support.
  • the clinical consequences can include broncho pulmonary dysplasia, chronic lung disease, pulmonary hemorrhage, intraventricular hemorrhage, and periventricular leukomalacia.
  • CPAP nasal continuous positive airway pressure
  • CPAP is a means to provide voluntary ventilator support while avoiding the invasive procedure of intubation.
  • CPAP provides humidified and slightly over-pressurized gas (approximately 5 cm H 2 O above atmospheric pressure) to an infant's nasal passageway utilizing nasal prongs or a tight fitting nasal mask.
  • COPD chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
  • ARDS/ALI ARDS/ALI
  • the purpose of the mechanical ventilation is to provide respiratory therapy and ensure that the patient is properly oxygenated.
  • Mechanical ventilation usually employs a tube of varied length and internal diameter, that can be cuffed or uncuffed, that is introduced to the trachea via the nose or mouth and forces respirable gas mixtures, typically air or oxygen, in and out of the lungs.
  • exogenous surfactant In addition to respiratory support, infants are often treated with exogenous surfactant, which improves gas exchange and has had a dramatic impact on mortality.
  • the exogenous material is delivered as a liquid bolus to the central airways via a catheter introduced through an endotracheal tube.
  • This invention is directed to pulmonary delivery of an active agent to a mammalian patient in combination with positive pressure or other forms of mechanical ventilation, especially human infant patients in need of respiratory treatment.
  • Methods are provided for delivering an aerosolized active agent to a patient. Preferred embodiments generally begin with the steps of obtaining an active agent as a mixture in a medium, and generating a stream of particles of the mixture with an aerosol generator to produce the aerosolized active agent desired for delivery.
  • the aerosolized active agent is communicated to and through a novel fluid flow connector.
  • the connector is preferably configured to direct the aerosolized active agent along a main aerosol flow path and to an outlet, and to be able to collect deposits in an area that is, preferably, located at least partially outside the main aerosol flow path.
  • Une suitable location for collecting deposits within the connector is an area that is spaced apart from the connector outlet.
  • Deposits that are collected in the fluid flow connector can be retrieved from the connector at various junctures contemplated by the methods of the present invention.
  • a first aerosolized active agent can be delivered to a patient, the deposits retrieved from the fluid flow connector, and then a second aerosolized active can be delivered to the patient.
  • the deposits containing a portion of active agent can be delivered to a patient substantially in its collected form, such as, for example, via a syringe dosed through a patient's nares, or can be re- aerosolized and then delivered to the patient.
  • the aerosolized active agent is impacted with a stream of gas.
  • the stream of gas is preferably directed toward the aerosolized active agent in a radially symmetric manner.
  • the stream of gas can affect the aerosolized active agent in any number of ways.
  • the impacting stream of gas can alter the characteristics of a first aerosol to produce a second aerosol, which is then delivered to the patient.
  • the mass median aerodynamic diameter of particles associated with the second aerosol can be smaller than that of the particles associated with the first aerosol.
  • the ratio of active agent to medium can be greater in the second aerosol as compared to that in the first aerosol.
  • the stream of gas can affect the aerosolized active agent physically.
  • the impacting stream of gas can direct the aerosol flow path through one or more remaining connectors or conduits before reaching the patient.
  • a system includes an aerosol generator for forming the aerosolized active agent, a delivery means, and a trap interposed between the aerosol generator and the delivery means for collecting deposits separated from the aerosolized active agent. At least a portion of the trap is preferably positioned substantially outside a main aerosol flow path.
  • the system includes an aerosol generator, a fluid flow connector connected to the aerosol generator, and optionally, a pair of nasal prongs connected to a delivery outlet of the fluid flow connector.
  • the fluid flow connector includes a chamber, an aerosol inlet, a delivery outlet, and a trap for collecting deposits associated with the aerosolized active agent.
  • An aerosol flow path is defined between the aerosol inlet and the delivery outlet.
  • the aerosol flow path is preferably devoid of angles less than 90°.
  • Each of the pair of nasal prongs has an internal diameter that is preferably less than or equal to about 10 mm.
  • the connector includes a chamber having an aerosol inlet, a delivery outlet, an aerosol flow path defined between the inlet and outlet, and an area for collecting deposits associated with the aerosolized active agent.
  • the deposit collection area is preferably located at least partially outside of the aerosol flow path so that deposits can be collected and substantially isolated from the aerosolized active agent flowing through the connector.
  • the connector includes a chamber having an aerosol inlet, a delivery outlet, an aerosol flow path defined between the inlet and outlet, and a means for keeping deposits associated with the aerosolized active agent separated from the aerosol flow path.
  • the means can include a concavity defined in the chamber.
  • the means can also include a lip disposed proximate the delivery outlet.
  • the connector includes a chamber, an aerosol inlet, a delivery outlet, and an aerosol flow path extending from the inlet to the outlet.
  • the aerosolized active agent preferably flows through the flow path at an angle that is less than about 90°.
  • the connector includes a chamber having an aerosol inlet, a delivery outlet, and an internal surface on which deposits associated with the aerosolized active agent can impact.
  • the internal surface is configured for either trapping the deposits and/or facilitating the communication of the deposits to the delivery outlet.
  • An alternative connector embodiment includes a chamber having an aerosol inlet, a delivery outlet, a ventilation gas inlet and a ventilation gas outlet.
  • the aerosol inlet and the delivery outlet are substantially parallel to each other. And the aerosol inlet can be laterally offset from the delivery outlet.
  • the methods, systems and devices of the present invention provide for the delivery of an aerosolized active agent to a patient.
  • the aerosolized active agent is aerosolized lung surfactant delivered at a rate of from about 0.1 mg/min of lung surfactant, measured as total phospholipid content (“TPL”), to about 300 mg/min of surfactant TPL.
  • the administration of the aerosolized active agent can be carried out while the patient is being supported by positive pressure respiratory therapy.
  • the positive pressure respiratory therapy is mechanical ventilation.
  • the mechanical ventilation is invasive.
  • the mechanical ventilation is noninvasive.
  • Various modes of ventilations are contemplated by this invention.
  • the ventilation mode is synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation (SIMV).
  • the patient is intubated when invasive mechanical ventilation is employed to provide the positive pressure ventilation.
  • the aerosolized active agent can be administered via an oral pathway, such as an endotracheal tube or via a nasal pathway, using a nasal mask, prongs, cannulae, and the like.
  • the aerosolized active agent can be delivered via an endotracheal tube that is also utilized to administer the invasive mechanical ventilation.
  • the aerosolized active agent can be delivered via the mode of delivery that is utilized to administer noninvasive mechanical ventilation.
  • a high fraction of aerosolized active agent can be delivered to the patient and deposited in the lungs of the patient.
  • greater than about 10% of aerosolized lung surfactant TPL that is in the delivery device exits the device and is delivered to the patient.
  • equal to or greater than about 10%, about 15%, about 20% or about 25% of aerosolized lung surfactant TPL that is in the delivery device exits the device and is delivered to the patient.
  • equal to or greater than about 2 mg/kg (based on the total weight of the patient) of lung surfactant TPL is deposited in the lungs of the patient.
  • from about 2 mg/kg of lung surfactant TPL to about 175 mg/kg of lung surfactant TPL is deposited in the lungs of the patient.
  • the present invention provides methods of treating respiratory dysfunction.
  • the amount of aerosolized active agent deposited in the lungs of the patient, using these methods, will be effective to treat respiratory dysfunction in the patient.
  • the present invention provides methods of treating RDS in infants.
  • the amount of aerosolized active agent deposited in the lungs of these patients will be sufficient for the rescue and/or prophylactic treatment of these patients.
  • Fig. 1 illustrates in schematic view a representative system which can be used in conjunction with the methods of the present invention.
  • Fig. 2 illustrates in schematic view an alternative embodiment of the system used in conjunction with the methods of the present invention when the active agent and the medium is a premix.
  • Fig. 3 illustrates a partial cross-sectional partially-exploded view of the nebulizer and the conditioning vessel.
  • Fig. 3A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the CPAP adaptor that is coupled with the conditioning vessel when CPAP is administered simultaneously with the aerosolized active agent.
  • Fig. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the portion of the conditioning gas unit indicated by the section lines 4-4 in Fig. 3.
  • Fig. 5 illustrates a plan view of the conditioning gas unit.
  • Fig. 6 illustrates a plan side perspective view of the conditioning gas unit and a plan side perspective view of the conditioning compartment.
  • Fig. 6A illustrates an upward- looking side perspective view of the unit and compartment with the bottom plate of the unit removed.
  • Fig. 6B illustrates the same upward-looking side perspective view of Fig. 6A with the bottom plate in place.
  • Fig. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the portion of the conditioning gas unit indicated by the section lines 7-7 in Fig. 3.
  • Fig. 8 illustrates in schematic form the aerosol traveling from the nebulizer and through the conditioning vessel while being bounded, shaped and directed by the conditioning gas.
  • Fig. 9 illustrates in schematic form a way to effect simultaneous administration of CPAP and delivery of the aerosol, in which the two components are admixed just prior to delivery to patient.
  • Fig. 9A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the nasal prongs utilizing the delivery method described.
  • Fig. 10 illustrates in schematic form a second way to effect simultaneous administration of CPAP and delivery of the aerosol, in which the aerosol is delivered via one nasal prong and the CPAP is delivered via the other nasal prong.
  • Fig. 1OA illustrates a cross- sectional view of the nasal prongs utilizing the delivery method described.
  • Fig. 11 illustrates in schematic form a third way to effect simultaneous administration of CPAP and delivery of the aerosol, in which the two components are delivered separately yet coaxially into each of the nasal prongs.
  • Fig. HA illustrates a cross-sectional view of the nasal prongs utilizing the delivery method described.
  • Fig. 12 illustrates in schematic form an exemplary system of this invention.
  • Fig. 12A illustrates the exemplary system of Fig. 12 in use with an infant.
  • Fig. 13 illustrates a comparison of collection rates of aerosolized surfactant in an unconditioned system and aerosolized surfactant in a conditioned system.
  • Fig. 14 illustrates a comparison of collection rates of conditioned aerosol with varying conditioning gas flow rates and temperatures.
  • Fig. 15 illustrates a comparison of percentages of collection efficiency of conditioned aerosol with varying conditioning gas flow rates and temperatures.
  • Fig. 16 illustrates changes in conditioned aerosol volume median diameter when the conditioning gas temperature and flow rate is varied.
  • Fig. 17 illustrates the size distribution of conditioned aerosol when the conditioning gas flow rate and temperature is varied.
  • Fig. 18 is a perspective view of one preferred fluid flow connector embodiment in accordance with the present invention.
  • Fig. 19 is a bottom view of the fluid flow connector shown in Fig. 18.
  • Fig. 20 is a side view of the fluid flow connector shown in Fig. 18.
  • Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid flow connector taken through line XXI-XXI in Fig. 18.
  • Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a second preferred fluid flow connector embodiment provided by the present invention.
  • Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a third preferred fluid flow connector embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a fourth preferred fluid flow connector of the present invention. This embodiment includes a aerosol conditioning vessel.
  • Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid flow connector shown in Fig. 24.
  • Fig. 26 is a top perspective view of an exemplary aerosol conditioning vessel in accordance with the present invention.
  • Fig. 27 is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol concentration chamber connected to a fluid flow connector of the present invention.
  • Fig. 28 is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary deposit collection reservoir in accordance with the present invention.
  • Fig. 29 illustrates a comparison of percentages of surfactant delivered to infants using an exemplary device of the present invention as compared to a T-adapter.
  • Fig. 30 illustrates amounts of aerosolized lung surfactant delivered with different size nasal prongs.
  • Fig. 31 illustrates delivery efficiencies of aerosolized active agents, in conjunction with varied ventilator gas flow rates, through preferred connectors of the present invention.
  • Fig. 32 illustrates amounts of KL4 lung surfactant delivered to a patient's lungs at varied aerosol generator output rates.
  • Fig. 33 illustrates the comparison of collection rates of aerosolized surfactant after passing through an endotracheal tube.
  • the present invention provides, inter alia, methods and systems for pulmonary delivery of one or more active agents to a patient, devices for the delivery of such agents, and methods for treating respiratory dysfunction in a patient.
  • Mechanical ventilation refers to the use of life-support technology to perform at least part, and sometimes all of the work of breathing for patients. Mechanical ventilation is used to provide artificial support of lung function. The principals of mechanical ventilation are governed by the Equation of Motion, which states that the amount of pressure required to inflate the lungs depends upon resistance, compliance, tidal volume and inspiratory flow. The principles of mechanical ventilation are described in detail in Hess and Kacmarek, ESSENTIALS OF MECHANICAL VENTILATION, 2 nd Edition, McGraw-Hill Companies (2002), which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. The overall goals of mechanical ventilation are to optimize gas exchange, patient work of breathing and patient comfort while minimizing ventilator-induced lung injury. Mechanical ventilation can be delivered via positive- pressure breaths or negative-pressure breaths. Additionally, the positive-pressure breaths can be delivered noninvasively or invasively.
  • Noninvasive mechanical ventilation generally refers to the use of a mask or nasal prongs to provide ventilatory support through a patient's nose and/or mouth.
  • the most commonly used interfaces for noninvasive positive pressure ventilation are nasal prongs, masks, or oronasal masks. Desirable features of a mask for noninvasive ventilation include low dead space, transparent, lightweight, easy to secure, adequate seal with low facial pressure, disposable or easy to clean, nonirritating to the skin (non-allergenic) and inexpensive.
  • NEVIV is distinguished from those invasive mechanical ventilatory techniques that bypass the patient's upper airway with an artificial airway (endotracheal tube ETT, laryngeal mask airway or tracheostromy tube).
  • NIMV can be provided by either bi-level pressure support (so called "BI-PAP") or continuous positive airway pressure.
  • Bi-level support provides an inspiratory positive airway pressure for ventilatory assistance and lung recruitment, and an expiratory positive airway pressure to help recruit lung volume and, more importantly, to maintain adequate lung expansion.
  • Continuous positive airway pressure provides a single level of airway pressure, which is maintained above atmospheric pressure throughout the respiratory cycle.
  • Mass median aerodynamic diameter or "MMAD” of an aerosol refers to the aerodynamic diameter for which half the particulate mass of the aerosol is contributed by particles with an aerodynamic diameter larger than the MMAD and half by particles with an aerodynamic diameter smaller than the MMAD. This can be measured using, for example, inertial cascade impaction techniques or by sedimentation methods.
  • the present invention facilitates the delivery of one or more active agents as a mixture in a medium.
  • mixture means a solution, suspension, dispersion or emulsion.
  • Emsion refers to a mixture of two or more generally immiscible liquids, and is generally in the form of a colloid.
  • the mixture can be of lipids, for example, which can be homogeneously or heterogeneously dispersed throughout the emulsion.
  • the lipids can be aggregated in the form of, for example, clusters or layers, including monolayers or bilayers.
  • “Suspension” or “dispersion” refers to a mixture, preferably finely divided, of two or more phases (solid, liquid or gas), such as, for example, liquid in liquid, solid in solid, gas in liquid, and the like which preferably can remain stable for extended periods of time.
  • the dispersion of this invention is a fluid dispersion.
  • the mixture comprises the active agent at a desired concentration and a medium.
  • concentration of the active agent in the medium is selected to ensure that the patient is receiving an effective amount of active agent and can be, for example, from about 1 to about 100 or about 120 mg/ml.
  • Mixtures delivered using the present invention often include one or more wetting agents.
  • the term "wetting agent” means a material that reduces the surface tension of a liquid and therefore increases its adhesion to a solid surface.
  • a wetting agent comprises a molecule with a hydrophilic group at one end and a hydrophobic group at the other. The hydrophilic group is believed to prevent beading or collection of material on a surface, such as the nasal prongs. Suitable wetting agents are soaps, alcohols, fatty acids, combinations thereof and the like.
  • active agent refers to a substance or combination of substances that can be used for therapeutic purposes ⁇ e.g., a drug), diagnostic purposes or prophylactic purposes via pulmonary delivery.
  • an active agent can be useful for diagnosing the presence or absence of a disease or a condition in a patient and/or for the treatment of a disease or condition in a patient.
  • active agent thus refers to substances or combinations of substances that are capable of exerting a biological effect when delivered by pulmonary routes.
  • the bioactive agents can be neutral, positively or negatively charged.
  • agents include, for example, insulins, autocoids, antimicrobials, antipyretics, antiinflammatories, surfactants, antibodies, antifungals, antibacterials, analgesics, anorectics, antiarthritics, antispasmodics, antidepressants, antipsychotics, antiepileptics, antimalarials, antiprotozoals, anti-gout agents, tranquilizers, anxiolytics, narcotic antagonists, antiparkinsonisms, cholinergic agonists, antithyroid agents, antioxidants, antineoplastics, antivirals, appetite suppressants, antiemetics, anticholinergics, antihistaminics, antimigraines, bone modulating agents, bronchodilators and anti-asthma drugs, chelators, antidotes and antagonists, contrast media, corticosteroids, mucolytics, cough suppressants and nasal decongestants, lipid regulating drugs, general anesthetics,
  • the active agent employed is a high-dose therapeutic.
  • high dose therapeutics would include antibiotics, such as amikacin, gentamicin, colistin, tobramycin, amphotericin B.
  • Others would include mucolytic agents such as N-acetylcysteine, Nacystelyn, alginase, mercaptoethanol and the like.
  • Antiviral agents such as ribavirin, gancyclovir, and the like, diamidines such as pentamidine and the like and proteins such as antibodies are also contemplated.
  • the preferred active agent is a substance or combination of substances that is used for pulmonary prophylactic or rescue therapy, such as a lung surfactant (LS).
  • LS lung surfactant
  • Four proteins have been found to be associated with lung surfactant, namely SP-A, SP-B, SP-C, and SP-D (Ma et al, Biophysical Journal 1998, 74:1899-1907).
  • SP-A, SP-B, SP-C, and SP-D are cationic peptides that can be derived from animal sources or synthetically. When an animal-derived surfactant is employed, the LS is often bovine or porcine derived.
  • LS refers to both naturally occurring and synthetic lung surfactant.
  • Synthetic LS refers to both protein-free lung surfactants and lung surfactants comprising synthetic peptides or peptide mimetics of naturally occurring surfactant protein. Any LS currently in use, or hereafter developed for use in RDS and other pulmonary conditions, is suitable for use in the present invention.
  • LS products include, but are not limited to, lucinactant (Surfaxin ® , Discovery Laboratories, Inc., Warrington, PA), poractant alfa (Curosurf ® , Chiesi Farmaceutici SpA, Parma, Italy), beractant (Survanta ® , Abbott Laboratories, Inc., Abbott Park, IL) and colfosceril palmitate (Exosurf ® , GlaxoSmithKline, pic, Middlesex, U.K.).
  • the methods and systems of this invention contemplate use of active agents, such as lung surfactant compositions, antibiotics, antivirals, mucolytic agents, as described above, the preferred active agent is a synthetic lung surfactant.
  • active agents such as lung surfactant compositions, antibiotics, antivirals, mucolytic agents, as described above
  • the preferred active agent is a synthetic lung surfactant.
  • the optimal exogenous LS to use in the treatment would be completely synthesized in the laboratory.
  • KL4 is a 21 amino acid cationic peptide.
  • KL4 peptide enables rapid surface tension modulation and helps stabilize compressed phospholipid monolayers.
  • KL4 is representative of a family of LS mimetic peptides which are described for example in U.S.
  • Patent 5,260,273 which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.
  • the peptide is present within an aqueous dispersion of phospholipids and free fatty acids or fatty alcohols, e.g., DPPC (dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine) and POPG (palmitoyl- oleyl phosphatidylglycerol) and palmitic acid (PA).
  • DPPC dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine
  • POPG palmitoyl- oleyl phosphatidylglycerol
  • PA palmitic acid
  • the LS is lucinactant or another LS formulation comprising the synthetic surfactant protein KLLLLKLLLLKXLLLKLLLL (KL4).
  • the preferred LS, lucinactant is a combination of DPPC, POPG, palmitic acid (PA) and the KL4 peptide.
  • the drug product is formulated at concentrations of, for example, 10, 20, and 30 mg/ml of phospholipid content. In other embodiments, the drug product is formulated at greater concentrations, e.g, 60, 90, 120 or more mg/ml phospholipid content, with concomitant increases in KL4 concentration.
  • surfactants are utilized in practicing the method of the present invention they are selected to be present in an amount sufficient to effectively modulate the surface tension of the liquid/air interface of the epithelial surface to which they are applied.
  • cationic peptides consist of at least about 10, preferably at least 11 amino acid residues, and no more than about 60, more usually fewer than about 35 and preferably fewer than about 25 amino acid residues.
  • cationic peptides have been disclosed in the art. See, for example, US Patent Nos. 5,164,369, 5,260,273, 5,407,914; and 6,613,734, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.
  • Examples of cationic peptides include KLLLLKLLLLKLLLLK (KL4, SEQ ID NO:1), DLLLLDLLLLDLLLLDLLLLD (DL4, SEQ ID NO:2 ), RLLLLRLLLLRLLLLRLLLLR (RlA, SEQ ID NO:3),
  • the cationic peptide is the LS mimetic, KL4.
  • LS mimetic peptides refers to polypeptides with an amino acid residue sequence that has a composite hydrophobicity of less than zero, preferably less than or equal to -1, more preferably less than or equal to -2.
  • the composite hydrophobicity value for a peptide is determined by assigning each amino acid residue in a peptide its corresponding hydrophilicity value as described in Hopp, et al. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 78: 3824-3829 (1981), which disclosure is incorporated by reference. For a given peptide, the hydrophobicity values are summed, the sum representing the composite hydrophobicity value.
  • hydrophobic polypeptides perform the function of the hydrophobic region of the SP18, a known LS apoprotein.
  • SP-18 is more thoroughly described in Glasser, et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. ScL, 84:4007-4001 (1987), which is hereby incorporated by reference.
  • the amino acid sequence mimics the pattern of hydrophobic and hydrophilic residues of SPl 8.
  • a preferred LS mimetic peptide includes a polypeptide having alternating hydrophobic and hydrophilic amino acid residue regions and is characterized as having at least 10 amino acid residues represented by the formula:
  • Z and U are amino acid residues such that at each occurrence Z and U are independently selected.
  • Z is a hydrophilic amino acid residue, preferably selected from the group consisting of R, D, E and K.
  • U is a hydrophobic amino acid residue, preferably selected from the group consisting of V, I, L, C, Y, and F.
  • the letters, "a,” “b,” “c” and “d” are numbers which indicate the number of hydrophilic or hydrophobic residues.
  • the letter “a” has an average value of about 1 to about 5, preferably about 1 to about 3.
  • the letter “b” has an average value of about 3 to about 20, preferably about 3 to about 12, most preferably, about 3 to about 10.
  • the letter “c” is 1 to 10, preferably, 2 to 10, most preferably 3 to 6.
  • the letter “d” is 1 to 3, preferably 1 to 2.
  • each of the hydrophilic residues represented by Z will be independently selected and thus can include RR, RD, RE, RK, DR, DD, DE, DK, etc.
  • a and “b” have average values, it is meant that although the number of residues within the repeating sequence (Z a U b ) can vary somewhat within the peptide sequence, the average values of "a” and “b” would be about 1 to about 5 and about 3 to about 20, respectively.
  • Examples of phospholipids useful in the compositions delivered by the invention include native and/or synthetic phospholipids.
  • Phospholipids that can be used include, but are not limited to, phosphatidylcholines, phospatidylglycerols, phosphatidylethanolamines, phosphatidylserines, phosphatidic acids, and phosphatidylethanolamines.
  • Exemplary phospholipids include dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC), dilauryl phosphatidylcholine (DLPC) C12:0, dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine (DMPC) C14:0, distearoyl phosphatidylcholine (DSPC), diphytanoyl phosphatidylcholine, nonadecanoyl phosphatidylcholine, arachidoyl phosphatidylcholine, dioleoyl phosphatidylcholine (DOPC) (Cl 8:1), dipalmitoleoyl phosphatidylcholine (C16:l), linoleoyl phosphatidylcholine (C18:2)), dipalmitoyl phosphatidylethanolamine (DPPE), dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE), dioleoyl phosphatidylglycerol (
  • fatty acids and fatty alcohols useful in these mixtures include, but are not limited to, palmitic acid, cetyl alcohol, lauric acid, myristic acid, stearic acid, phytanic acid, dipamlitic acid, and the like.
  • the fatty acid is palmitic acid and preferably the fatty alcohol is cetyl alcohol.
  • medium refers to both aqueous and non-aqueous media.
  • the preferred medium is chosen so as not cause any adverse effect on the biological activity of the active agent being delivered.
  • a non-aqueous medium can include, for example, hydrogen- containing chlorofluorocarbons, fluorocarbons and admixtures thereof.
  • the perfluorocarbon liquid should have an oxygen solubility greater than about 40 ml/100 ml.
  • Representative perfluorocarbon liquids include FC-84, FC -72, RM-82, FC-75 (3M Company, Minneapolis, Minn.), RM-101 (MDI Corporation, Bridgeport, Conn.), dimethyladamantane (Sun Tech, Inc.), trimethylbicyclononane (Sun Tech, Inc.), and perfluorodecalin (Green Cross Corp., Japan).
  • the medium when an aqueous medium is employed, is a water- containing liquid.
  • Suitable media include isotonic ionic solutions preferably buffered to within 1 pH unit of physiologic pH (7.3).
  • the medium should be free of pathogens and other deleterious materials and can be composed of pure water but also optionally can include up to about 20% by volume and preferably up to about 5% of nontoxic organic liquids such as oxy-group containing liquids such as alcohols, esters, ethers, ketones and the like. In selecting organic components it is important to avoid materials which are likely to give rise to undesired reactions such as intoxication, sedation, and the like.
  • the medium is saline or tromethamine buffer.
  • the present invention provides methods of delivering an aerosolized active agent to a patient.
  • such methods include a step of generating a stream of particles with an aerosol generator to produce the aerosolized active agent.
  • the methods of the present invention include a step of impacting the aerosolized active agent with a stream of gas.
  • the aerosolized active agent will preferably be impacted by the gas in a uniform manner, for example, in a substantially radially symmetric manner.
  • the gas is able to direct the aerosolized active agent to the delivery outlet.
  • the stream of gas is part of a conditioning system.
  • the conditioning system employs the gas, now referred to as a conditioning gas, to direct the aerosol, for example, to the inspiratory gas flow.
  • the conditioning gas will not only modulate the flow of aerosolized active agent but will alter one or more characteristics of the active agent mixture.
  • the conditioning gas will alter the characteristics of at least a portion of the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator to produce a second aerosol.
  • An example of the characteristics of the aerosol that can be altered includes aerosol particle size and ratio of active agent to medium.
  • the conditioning gas can, in some occasions, evaporate off a portion of the medium present in the particles. Accordingly, the conditioning gas can, in some embodiments, shape, bound and/or direct the aerosol flow and in so doing can create a buffer zone between the aerosol and the physical walls of the delivery apparatus
  • the stream of gas or conditioning gas refers to air and other fabricated gaseous formulations containing air, oxygen gas, nitrogen gas, helium gas, nitric oxide gas and combinations thereof (e.g., heliox or "trimix" of helium, oxygen and nitrogen), as would be understood by one of skill in the art of respiratory therapy.
  • the gas is a formulation of air and oxygen gas, wherein the oxygen content is varied from about 20 % to about 100% of the total gas composition. The amount of oxygen in the gas formulation is readily determined by the attending clinician.
  • bounding, shaping, and directing and “shape, bound and direct” as used herein refer to the conditioning performed by the conditioning gas to the stream of particles in the aerosol. This is most clearly illustrated in Fig. 8. Specifically, the stream of particles in the aerosol are contacted with the conditioning gas.
  • the conditioning gas can, in some instances, shape the stream of particles into a more condensed, focused flow (i.e., provide directional coherence to the aerosol stream of particles) bounded by conditioning gas. As shown in Fig, 8, this shaped, bounded flow of particles is directed to the delivery apparatus.
  • a significant fraction of the aerosol is conditioned by the conditioning gas.
  • a significant fraction refers to more than about 10% of the aerosol; preferably more than about 25%; more preferably more than about 50%; and still more preferably more than about 90%.
  • the gas is added at a flow rate so as not to create a turbulent gas flow.
  • the volume per unit of time of conditioning gas flow is from about 0.1 to about 6 1/min and is dependent on the patient.
  • the flow is optimized based on the amount of aerosol that is generated from the nebulizer, and more particularly is optimized to a rate that the aerosol deposition in the conditioner and other parts of the delivery tract can be minimized as well as minimizing dilution of the aerosol.
  • the conditioning gas can accelerate the evaporation of medium from the particles in the aerosol as the particles move from the nebulizer where they are generated to the point of delivery to the patient.
  • This evaporation can be expedited when the conditioning gas is heated and/or presented at a relatively low moisture (humidity) level.
  • the temperature of the conditioning gas is about 37 to about 50 0 C and more preferably about 37 to about 42°C.
  • the conditioning gas has a relative humidity at 37°C of less than about 60%, more preferably less than about 20%, and even more preferably less than about 5% relative humidity.
  • the conditioning gas can have a higher relative humidity, including up to 100% relative humidity.
  • the conditioning gas evaporates the particles so that particles are substantially free of the medium.
  • Substantially free means that the aerosol being delivered does not contain a significant amount of medium.
  • the administration of the aerosolized active agent in combination with mechanical ventilation is contemplated.
  • mechanical ventilators are used to facilitate the respiratory flow of gas into and out of the lungs of patients who are sick, injured or anesthetized.
  • mechanical ventilators provide a repetitive cycling of ventilatory flow, an inspiratory phase followed by an expiratory phase.
  • the inspiratory phase of the ventilator cycle is characterized by the movement of positive-pressure inspiratory flow of gas through the ventilator circuit and into the lungs of the patient.
  • the expiratory phase of the ventilatory cycle is characterized by cessation of the positive pressure inspiratory flow long enough to allow lung deflation to occur.
  • the exhaled gas is vented from the ventilator circuit, typically through an exhalation valve. In patients whose lungs and thoracic musculature exhibit normal compliance, the act of exhalation is usually permitted to occur spontaneously without mechanical assistance from the ventilator.
  • the flow of gas from the ventilator can be set to a fixed volume of gas with variable pressure; fixed pressure of gas with variable volume of gas; or a combination of fixed volume and fixed pressure.
  • Vententilation modes are selected or prescribed based on the clinical condition of the patient and the overall objective (i.e., long-term ventilation, short-term ventilation, weaning from ventilator, and the like) of the mechanical ventilation.
  • the overall objective i.e., long-term ventilation, short-term ventilation, weaning from ventilator, and the like.
  • Ventilation modes are contemplated by this invention, including, but not limited to, synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation (SIMV), pressure support, SEvIV with pressure support, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), controlled mechanical ventilation (CMV), and assist/control (A/C).
  • SIMV synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation
  • CPAP continuous positive airway pressure
  • CMV controlled mechanical ventilation
  • A/C assist/control
  • SIMV is a ventilatory mode that works in conjunction with a patient's breathing.
  • the ventilator delivers a synchronized breath at a preset rate a prefixed tidal volume of gas.
  • Tidal volume refers to the volume of air inhaled and exhaled at each breath.
  • the ventilator will deliver a variable tidal volume breath dictated by the patient's effort and not ventilator supported.
  • this is the ventilation mode selected for patients suffering from Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).
  • ARDS Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome
  • the ventilator is capable of sensing the patient's breathing. The sensing can be done in a variety of ways, including sensors on the diaphragm.
  • the mode of pressure support ventilation is typically characterized by a preset pressure boost upon inspiration by the patient.
  • the tidal volume delivered is varied based upon the lung, chest wall, ventilator system compliance and patient effort.
  • the patient's ventilatory demands determine the inspiratory time, peak inspiratory flow, volume and rate.
  • the pressure support requires spontaneously breathing by a patient.
  • SBVIV and pressure support offers the benefits of pressure support with a back up rate in the event the patient's spontaneous breathing is decreased or stops. In this mode, the pressure support is delivered each time the patient generates a negative inspiratory effort.
  • CPAP is typically employed during periods of spontaneous breathing by the patient or more specifically, where the patient's respiratory distress is due to atelectasis, such as mucus plugging or diaphragmatic splinting following abdominal surgery, or moderated amounts of pulmonary edema.
  • CPAP is employed during periods of spontaneous breathing by the patient.
  • the pressure delivered to the patient is equivalent to the patient's positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP).
  • CPAP is characterized by the maintenance of a continuously positive airway pressure during both the inspiratory phase, and the expiratory phase, of the patient's spontaneous respiration cycle and hence has constant flow pattern. It can also be used in conjunction with pressure support. It has been shown that use of CPAP allows for an increase in functional residual capacity and improved oxygenation. The larynx is dilated and swpraglottic airway resistance is normal. There is also an improvement of the synchrony of respiratory thoracoabdominal movements and enhanced Hering-Breuer inflation reflex following airway occlusion. [0110] In CMV ventilation mode, every breath is initiated and dictated by the machine. A fixed tidal volume is delivered in the absence of any spontaneous ventilatory efforts. This ventilation mode is typically utilized in the operating room.
  • Assist/control ventilation delivers a fixed tidal volume at a preset rate for each additional triggered attempt by the patient. This mode is preferably selected for respiratory failure.
  • the ventilator can comprise a separately controllable exhalation valve which can be preset to exert desired patterns or amounts of expiratory back pressure, when such back pressure is desired to prevent atelectasis or to otherwise improve the ventilation of the patient.
  • Noninvasive pulmonary respiratory therapy refers to respiratory therapy which does not use invasive mechanical ventilation.
  • Noninvasive pulmonary respiratory therapy can include CPAP, bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP), synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation (SIMV), and the like.
  • CPAP bi-level positive airway pressure
  • SIMV synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation
  • Respiratory gases used for noninvasive pulmonary respiratory therapy are sometimes referred to herein as "CPAP gas,” “CPAP air,” “ventilation gas,” “ventilation air,” or simply “air.”
  • CPAP gas Respiratory gases used for noninvasive pulmonary respiratory therapy
  • CPAP air CPAP air
  • ventilation gas Ventilation air
  • air any type of gas normally used for noninvasive pulmonary respiratory therapy, including but not limited to gases and gaseous combinations listed above for use as the conditioning gas.
  • the gas used for noninvasive pulmonary respiratory therapy is the same as the conditioning gas.
  • the respective gases are different from one another.
  • the pulmonary delivery methods of this invention are employed in conjunction with positive pressure ventilation, such as CPAP described herein.
  • CPAP positive pressure ventilation
  • use of CPAP allows for an increase in functional residual capacity and improved oxygenation.
  • the larynx is dilated and supraglot ⁇ c airway resistance is normal.
  • CPAP has been shown to be useful in treating various conditions such as sleep apnea, snoring, ARDS, IRDS, and the like.
  • the positive pressure-producing airflow is typically generated in the vicinity of the airways by converting kinetic energy from a jet of fresh humidified gas into a positive airway pressure.
  • a continuous flow rate of breathing gas of about 5 to about 12 liters/minute generates a corresponding CPAP of about 2 to about 10 cm H 2 O.
  • Various modifications can be applied to the system which include sensors that can individualize the amount of pressure based on the patient's need.
  • flow rates and pressures suitable are based upon the characteristics of the patient being treated.
  • Patients subject to treatment by the methods of the present invention can be neonatal infants, infants, juveniles and adults.
  • a neonatal infant is an infant born prematurely or otherwise, under 4 weeks old.
  • Infants typically refer to those older than 4 weeks old but under 2 years old.
  • Juveniles refer to those individuals older than 2 years old but under 11 years old.
  • Adults are older than 11 years old.
  • Suitable flow rates and pressures can be readily calculated by the attending clinician.
  • the present invention encompasses the use of a variety of flow rates for the ventilating gas, including low, moderate and high flow rates.
  • the aerosol can be supplied without added positive pressure, i.e., without CPAP or other respiratory therapy as a simultaneous respiratory therapy as described herein.
  • the positive pressure-generating air flow being delivered to the patient has a moisture level which will prevent unacceptable levels of drying of the lungs and airways.
  • the positive pressure-generating air is often humidified by bubbling through a hydrator, or the like to achieve a relative humidity of preferably greater that about 70%. More preferably, the humidity is greater than about 85% and still more preferably 98%.
  • the respiratory rate can be controlled by the operator or the patient.
  • the patient can breathe spontaneously, and with modern ventilators these breaths are supported either by delivering facsimiles of the controlled breaths synchronously with the patient's effort or by allowing the patient more subjective control.
  • Pressure support is a form of flow-cycled ventilation in which the patient triggers the ventilator and a pressure-limited flow of gas is delivered. The patient determines the duration of the breath and the tidal volume, which can vary from breath to breath.
  • a suitable source of CPAP-inducing airflow is the underwater tube CPAP (underwater expiratory resistance) unit. This is commonly referred to as a bubble CPAP.
  • Another preferred source of pressure is an expiratory flow valve that uses variable resistance valves on the expiratory limb of CPAP circuits. This is typically accomplished via a ventilator.
  • Another preferred source is the Infant Flow Driver or "IFD" (Electro Medical Equipment, Ltd., Brighton, Hampshire, UK). IFD generates pressure at the nasal level and employs a conventional flow source and a manometer to generate a high pressure supply jet capable of producing a CPAP effect. It is suggested in the literature that the direction of the high pressure supply jet responds to pressures exerted in the nasal cavity by the patient's efforts and this reduces variations in air pressure during the inspiration cycle.
  • the aerosol stream generated in accordance with the present invention can be delivered via the same pathway the patient is receiving the positive pressure respiratory therapy, e.g., an endotracheal tube if the patient is ventilated orally using invasive mechanical ventilation.
  • the aerosol is delivered through a separate delivery device than that delivering the positive pressure respiratory therapy.
  • the aerosol stream generated in accordance with the present invention can be preferably delivered to the patient via a nasal delivery device which can involve, for example masks, single nasal prongs, binasal prongs, nasopharyngeal prongs, nasal cannulae and the like.
  • the delivery device is chosen so as to minimize trauma, maintain a seal to avoid waste of aerosol, and minimize the work the patient must perform to breathe.
  • binasal prongs are used.
  • the aerosol stream can also be delivered orally.
  • Preferred oral delivery interfaces include masks, cannulae, and the like.
  • the methods, systems, and devices of the present invention deliver aerosolized active agents to the lungs.
  • the aerosolized active agent is conditioned before delivery, i.e., impacted with a conditioning gas or other conditioning means.
  • the invention employs a mixture of active agent in a medium.
  • This mixture can be formed by adding the active agent and the medium into mixing vessel 12 via lines 10 and 14, respectively.
  • the order of addition is not critical.
  • the active agent and the medium are mixed with the mixing blade 13 to provide the desired substantially homogeneous mixture.
  • the medium and active agent are added in sufficient amounts to provide a concentration that will be effective when delivered to the patient via the present improved aerosolization process. They can be mixed batchwise or in a continuous process.
  • the medium and active agent are premixed. As depicted in Fig. 2, the premix is present in vessel 22. [0131] The mixture of active agent and medium is passed to conditioner 18 via line 16 and then treated as described below.
  • the nebulizer 24 and the various components of the conditioner discussed below can be coated with a material that could reduce particle deposition and/or repulsion.
  • This material is preferably wettable and can also act as a static control agent to the aerosol.
  • the material can be blended with the additive and produced via extrusion compounding.
  • aerosol neutralizer can be placed downstream of the nebulizer 24 or mixed with the conditioning gas prior to the conditioning gas entering into the conditioner as described below.
  • Conditioner 18 includes a nebulizer (aerosol generator) 24 in fluid-tight communication with a conditioning vessel 26.
  • the aerosol generator is an ultrasonic nebulizer or vibrating membrane nebulizer or vibrating screen nebulizer. Typically jet nebulizers are not employed although the present methods can be adapted to all types of nebulizers or atomizers.
  • the aerosol generator is an Aeroneb ® Professional Nebulizer (Aerogen Inc., Mountain View, CA, USA).
  • Nebulizer 24 generates a high density, disorganized (nonconditioned) stream of particles of the mixture.
  • the size of the aerosol particles is not critical to the present invention.
  • a representative non-limited list of particle MMAD ranges include from about 0.5 to about 10 microns, from about 1 to about 10 microns, from about 0.5 to about 8 microns, from about 0.5 to about 6 microns, from about 0.5 to about 3 microns, and from about 0.5 to about 2 microns in size. Aerosol particles having a MMAD of less than 0.5 microns or greater than 10 microns are equally contemplated by the present invention.
  • the aerosol generator is a capillary aerosol generator, an example of which is the soft-mist generator available from Chrysalis Technologies, Richmond, VA (T.T. Nguyen, K. A. Cox, M. Parker and S. Pham (2003) Generation and Characterization of Soft-Mist Aerosols from Aqueous Formulations Using the Capillary Aerosol Generator, J. Aerosol Med. 16:189).
  • a stream of gas or conditioning gas Some embodiments of the invention include the use of a stream of gas or conditioning gas, while other embodiments do not, as will be apparent from the drawings and their description herein.
  • unconditioned aerosol 20 is passed to conditioning vessel 26 via opening 50 (see Fig. 3), where the aerosol is conditioned with the conditioning gas which is depicted in Fig. 1 as gas streams 21 though 21g.
  • the conditioning gas flows 21-21g can, in some embodiments, evaporate medium from the particles preferably accelerating their reduction in size from a first MMAD toward a second, smaller MMAD and, as a consequence, the smaller droplets will have a greater chance of transiting the delivery system and being delivered to the lungs.
  • the conditioning gas can, in some embodiments, also causes the stream of particles to be bounded, shaped, and directed into a more focused coherent stream 28 (see Fig. 8) in conditioning vessel 26.
  • the present invention includes some methods, embodiments, and devices wherein the aerosolized active agent is essentially unchanged from the aerosol generator to the point of delivery to a patient.
  • the nebulizer 24 includes an outlet sleeve 30 having an internal dimension 32 which allows it to achieve a tight slip fit seal over the inlet body 34 of conditioning vessel 26. Based upon the specific nebulizer employed, the junction between the nebulize employed, the junction between the nebulizer 24 and the conditioning vessel can be modified accordingly. Although not shown in this configuration, nebulizer 24 can be spaced apart from conditioning vessel 26 and connected via flexible tubing or the like. As best shown in Fig. 3, conditioning vessel 26 is comprised of two parts, conditioning gas inlet unit 36 and conditioned flow nozzle 38. Details of these two units are illustrated in Figs. 3, 4, 5, 6, 6A, 6B and 7.
  • the conditioning gas stream enters conditioning gas unit inlet 38 via inlets 40 and 42 line having opening 41 which delivers the conditioning gas flow into chamber 44.
  • the flow rate is set to ensure a non-turbulent flow.
  • the conditioning gas will, in some cases have had its temperature adjusted and its moisture level monitored and most likely modified so as to give rise in suitable levels of evaporation of medium from the particles 20 as they contact the conditioning gas flow. Apparatus to accomplish this temperature and moisture level adjustment in patient ventilation settings are known in the art and are not depicted in these drawings.
  • the conditioning gas circulates in chamber 44 and up into adjacent chamber 46 where it surrounds the aerosol flow zone 50 defined by tapered conical wall 47.
  • Wall 47 includes a region 48 which contains a plurality of openings 49. In Fig. 3 these openings are depicted as a series of holes surrounding the flow zone 50 defined by wall 47.
  • the conditioning gas from chamber 46 then passes through openings 49 in region 48. While the openings 49 in region 48 are depicted in a perforated design, this invention contemplates other designs that allow for uniform distribution (i.e., preferably radially symmetric flow) of sheath gas such as slits and the like.
  • the conditioning gas flowpaths through openings 49 are those schematically represented as flows 21-21g in Figs. 1 and 8. As shown in those Figs, the flow paths of conditioning gas are calibrated preferably to provide a nonturbulent flow regime which exits from the aerosol flow zone defined by tapered wall 47 out through nozzle 52.
  • the aerosol of particles of the active agent- media mixture is bounded, shaped, and directed by the conditioning gas and is carried out of the conditioning gas unit 36 and out through nozzle 52 as a coherent flow of particles having a reduced size as compared to particles 20, originally generated by nebulizer 24.
  • conditioning gas generator will have capabilities to recognize when the systems of this invention are over-pressurized and will adjust the conditioning gas flow appropriately.
  • the conditioning gas delivered through openings 49 acts as a buffer between the wall 47 of flow zone 50 and the unconditioned aerosol and thus reduces clogging in nozzle 52 due to accumulation of aerosol solids or condensed liquids on wall 47.
  • This buffer-effect is continued through the delivery device, for example trough nozzle 52.
  • the conditioning gas creates a conditioned aerosol not only by bounding, shaping and directing the aerosol's flow but also by evaporating liquid medium out of the particles 20 and thus reducing the average particle size (MMAD) of the particles present in the aerosol.
  • MMAD average particle size
  • this aerosol flow with its conditioning gas can be delivered directly to the oral or nasal pathway with well-known devices that include for example only, masks, single nasal prongs, binasal prongs, nasopharyngeal prongs, nasal cannulae and the like.
  • An embodiment of the invention shown in Fig. 12 illustrates the use of binasal prongs 100.
  • Fig. 12A shows an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with nasal prongs 100 inserted into the nares of an infant (Fig. 12A's reference numbers are described below).
  • the device is chosen based upon the disorder being treated and the patient. Preferably, the device chosen maintains a seal between the device and the patient to avoid loss of aerosol product and, importantly to maintain continuous positive air pressure.
  • the conditioning gas and conditioned aerosol are delivered to the patient at a delivery temperature of about 20 to about 4O 0 C.
  • the delivery temperature refers to the temperature at which the aerosol and air are received by the patient.
  • the conditioning gas typically enters the conditioner at about 0 to about 25 0 C above the delivery temperature.
  • the conditioning gas has an initial temperature of about 37 to about 45 0 C.
  • this invention contemplates delivering the conditioned aerosol to a patient while simultaneously administering other forms of positive pressure respiratory therapy.
  • the therapy is mechanical ventilation.
  • the therapy utilizes invasive mechanical ventilation.
  • the therapy utilizes noninvasive mechanical ventilation
  • some form of synchronized therapy wherein the positive pressure is varied in response to inspiratory maneuvers by the patient is utilized.
  • this invention contemplates several approaches to the simultaneous delivery of a positive pressure-producing airflow and a conditioned aerosol designed to minimize premature contact of the positive pressure-producing airflow with the conditioned aerosol. These are represented schematically in Figs. 9 through 11 and 9A through HA. While these depicted embodiments describe nasal prong designs, it is contemplated that based on the principles of the designs, only minor modifications would need to be made to effect similar delivery via a nasal mask or for an oral delivery device. For example, when the conditioned aerosol and positive pressure-generating airflow are being delivered orally, suitable modifications can be made to the oral delivery device to accommodate two separate lines in a manner similar to the nasal prongs.
  • a positive pressure-producing generator (not shown) generates a suitable flow of positive pressure-producing air 62 delivered via line 60.
  • Line 54 delivers contains conditioned aerosol 28.
  • the positive pressure-producing generator and the conditioning gas generator are the same ventilator-like machine and a flow-splitter is employed or a ventilator-like machine that has two gas outlet ports. The use of a flow-splitter allows for the positive pressure-producing gas and the conditioning gas to have the same gas composition, temperatures, humidity and the like of the flows to be altered independently of one another.
  • the positive pressure-producing airflow and the conditioning gas are heated by independent heating sources to allow the positive pressure- producing airflow to be both heated and humidified, while the conditioning gas is only heated. It should be noted that the conditioning gas will become slightly humidified upon contact with the aerosol.
  • This invention also contemplates employing an isolation valve or other mechanism that can be used to provide a complete sealed environment that will allow positive airway pressure to be maintained while aerosol is not delivered.
  • the valve can be used to maintain continuous operation of positive pressure with or without aerosol delivery.
  • Situations when aerosol is not delivered include changing nebulizer, cleaning the conditioner or stopping the surfactant therapy altogether when the efficacy is reached.
  • conditioned aerosol 28 and CPAP 62 are mixed immediately prior to delivery to the patient.
  • the positive pressure airflow 62, delivered via line 60 and the conditioned aerosol delivered via line 54 are mixed in mixer 64 just prior to delivery to the patient.
  • Fig. 9A is a cross-sectional view of the same.
  • Conditioned aerosol 28 and CPAP 62 are delivered as a mixture to the patient via both nasal prongs 63 and 63 A.
  • Fig. 3a illustrates one embodiment of the mixer or fluid flow connector 64 referenced in Fig. 9.
  • Mixer or fluid flow connector 64 includes an inlet 66 designed to seal and mate with nozzle 52 of the aerosol generator/conditioner shown in, for example Fig. 1.
  • the flow of aerosol 54 produced in the generator/conditioner where it enters chamber 72.
  • a positive pressure-inducing flow of gas is fed into chamber 72 via positive pressure airflow feed line 70.
  • the combined flows pass through orifice 54 to nasal prongs or other like delivery devices as previously discussed.
  • Chamber 72 is optionally equipped with baffles such as 68 so as to direct the aerosol to the outlets and to minimize premature contact between the conditioned aerosol and the positive pressure-producing airflow.
  • Chamber 72 is further designed to minimize turbulence and mixing between the two flows. Chamber 72 is also designed to minimize the likelihood that solids or condensed liquids will occlude the delivery apparatus like nasal prongs or enter the patient's airways and can include for example a solid/liquid trap 73 which acts as a collection and/or extraction repository. Any material that is collected in the trap 73 can be extracted and recycled but more commonly is discarded. Alternatively, a port can be incorporated that allows for liquid removal.
  • conditioned aerosol 28 and positive pressure-producing airflow 62 are not mixed prior to delivery of the patient, but instead are delivered separately via lines 54 and 60 respectively to separate nasal prongs 63 and 63 A.
  • the conditioned aerosol 28 fed through line 54 and the mechanical ventilation airflow 62 fed through line 60 are delivered separately with minimal mixing and with the mechanical ventilatory-producing airflow coaxially surrounding the conditioned aerosol stream. It will be appreciated that this is essentially the same configuration that is present between the conditioning air flow and the initial aerosol. To that end, one might use a device similar to the conditioning unit to add extra coaxial mechanical ventilatory-producing air to the flow. Alternatively, in some cases, it might be possible to increase the flow of conditioning gas to a point that it would be able to induce a positive pressure condition in the patient.
  • an exemplary fluid flow connector 200 is shown substantially in the form of an enclosed chamber 202 having a series of ports (some of which are optional) disposed therein.
  • Connector 202 is referred elsewhere in this specification as a "mixer,” or a “prong adapter” since nasal prongs can optionally be connected to the chamber.
  • Chamber 202 includes an aerosol inlet 204 for receiving an active agent that has been aerosolized by an aerosol generator (not shown) that can be connected directly or indirectly to fluid flow connector 200.
  • Aerosol inlet 204 can employ a valve.
  • a cross slit valve 203 can be seated in annular channel 205 (see Fig. 21).
  • the aerosolized active agent exits chamber 202 through a delivery outlet 206, which is preferably in fluid communication with a pair of nasal prongs.
  • the delivery outlet can also be configured for connection with a mask, a diffuser, or any other device known by the skilled artisan that is placed near a patient's mouth and/or nose for inhalation of the aerosolized active agent.
  • the delivery outlet will be indirectly connected to a pair of nasal prongs or other device for inhalation of the aerosolized active agent.
  • the delivery outlet 206 of the fluid flow connecter 200 can, in some embodiments, communicate the aerosolized active agent to another device or conduit that is in fluid communication with, for example, a pair of nasal prongs but that is not necessarily configured to collect deposits associated with the aerosolized active agent.
  • fluid flow connectors and their optional features and components are designed to minimize impaction of aerosol deposits along the path between the aerosol generator the patient.
  • a main (i.e., substantially direct) aerosol flow path MAFP from aerosol inlet 204 to delivery outlet 206. Portions of the aerosol likely flow along pathways that are outside of the main flow path MAFP — this is illustrated with the additional exemplary aerosol flow path arrows included in Fig. 21. Since sharp turns in an aerosol flow path can induce impaction, it is preferred that main flow path MAFP have an angle ⁇ that is less than 90 degrees. Angles of 90 degrees are typical when using a T-connection.
  • Angle ⁇ is measured between a reference line (parallel to the aerosol flow as it enters connector 200) and a line defined between a central axis point of the aerosol inlet where the aerosol inlet 204 meets chamber 202 and a central axis point of the delivery outlet where the delivery outlet 206 meets chamber 202.
  • Angle ⁇ is preferably less than about 75 degrees, and more preferably less than about 60 degrees.
  • Fluid flow connectors in accordance with the present invention can be adapted for connection to nasal prongs, both for adults and for infants.
  • nasal prongs other delivery devices can be employed
  • the nasal prongs themselves due to their relatively small inner diameter, can become a problem area for deposit buildup.
  • Preferred fluid flow connectors are designed to facilitate the capture of deposits "upstream" of the nasal prongs in an effort to reduce the incidence of deposit build up in the nasal prongs and/or increase the amount of administration time prior to significant deposit buildup.
  • a main aerosol flow path MAFP is shown wherein at least a significant portion of the aerosol enters connector chamber 202 via aerosol inlet 204 and then turns toward delivery outlet 206.
  • relatively large aerosol particles can become separated from the main aerosol flow path, continue along a substantially straight line, and then impact on an opposing chamber 202 surface.
  • the impacting surface can be configured to trap the deposits.
  • chamber 202 can have an internal surface 208 that includes a concave portion 210.
  • the geometry of internal surface 208 helps to define a liquid trap 209 for accepting deposits that become separated from the aerosol flowing through chamber 202, as well as for collecting deposits that were created elsewhere in the system and that are carried to the connector 200 with the aerosol.
  • An area for collecting deposits within fluid flow connectors is preferable located at least partially outside of the main aerosol flow path, so that the collected deposits do not disrupt the active agent delivery to a patient.
  • One manner of accomplishing this is by spacing the deposit collection area (or a portion thereof) away from the delivery outlet 206.
  • Connector embodiments of the present invention are designed and configured to preferably collect deposits in specified areas; however, a person of ordinary skill in the art would readily appreciate that deposits can occur on any and all surfaces of the connectors.
  • fluid flow connector embodiments can employ various means for keeping the collected deposits separated from the aerosol main flow path.
  • One means includes a concavity formed in a wall of the connector chamber — see, e.g., concave portion 210 formed in chamber 202.
  • Another means includes a lip disposed proximate the connector delivery outlet — see, e.g., lip 211.
  • connector 200 is shown having both a concavity and a lip, alternative embodiments can incorporate only one or the other.
  • chamber 202 can be discarded and replaced with a new chamber.
  • deposits can be removed from chamber 202 with a syringe or other suitable device via aerosol inlet 204 or other suitable port (that is preferably sealed).
  • the chamber can include a disposable or removable inserts in which deposits become lodged. Inserts containing lodged deposits can be removed and replaced with fresh inserts. Deposits can be retrieved from chamber 202 while administering an aerosolized active agent to a patient, or alternately, during a non-delivery time period between multiple doses of the active agent.
  • Deposits that are retrieved from fluid flow connectors of the present invention can be reaerosolized for delivery to a patient.
  • the deposits can be manually retrieved and placed into an aerosol generator.
  • the deposits could also automatically be routed back to an aerosol generator reservoir that is placed substantially below a fluid flow connector.
  • the aerosol is communicated upwardly and into the connector, wherein any deposits could be fed automatically back down to the aerosol generator reservoir via connector features (e.g., a sloped bottom surface), a deposit exit port and flexible tubing or other fluid communication device.
  • the respiratory therapy is mechanical ventilation.
  • the mechanical ventilation is invasive mechanical ventilation.
  • the mechanical ventilation is noninvasive mechanical ventilation.
  • the respiratory therapy is synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation (SIMV).
  • SIMV intermittent mandatory ventilation
  • the respiratory therapy is CPAP (including nCPAP) as discussed in detail herein.
  • chamber 202 is shown having optional ports 212 and 214 that respectively serve as a ventilation gas inlet and a ventilation gas outlet.
  • CPAP CPAP
  • a baffle or flow diverter between the distal end of the aerosol inlet (i.e., the interface between the aerosol inlet and the interior of the chamber) and the ventilation gas (CPAP) inlet.
  • CPAP ventilation gas
  • a baffle 207 is included that generally directs the flow of the ventilation gas, at least initially, along a fluid flow pathway labeled VPW.
  • the aerosol generally follows a fluid flow pathway labeled APW.
  • the two fluid flow pathways merge in an area proximate the delivery outlet 206.
  • Port 216 can be utilized for proximal pressure measurements associated with the administration of CPAP.
  • Port 218 can be used for removing deposits that are trapped in chamber 202 without having to remove devices inserted into aerosol inlet 204.
  • port 218 can employ a septum that can be penetrated with a standard needle and syringe.
  • the aerosolized active agent is not delivered in conjunction with mechanical ventilation. In still other embodiments, the aerosolized active agent is delivered without simultaneous delivery of other forms 'of respiratory therapy.
  • the chamber can include one or more features that facilitate communication of impacted deposits to the patient. That is, both the aerosolized active agent and the deposits can be delivered to the patient to maximize the delivery efficiency of the active agent.
  • another exemplary fluid flow connector 300 is shown that includes a chamber 302 having an internal surface 308 that is downwardly angled in a direction towards delivery outlet 306. Deposits that impact internal surface 308 can essentially slide down to delivery outlet 306 with the aid of gravity, and optionally a wetting agent applied to internal surface 308. Pressure associated with the flowing aerosol, and mechanical ventilation gas if incorporated, will also tend to "push" deposits down angled surface 308.
  • Each of connectors 200 and 300 are configured and shown for receiving an aerosolized active agent from above the connector — that is, through an aerosol inlet disposed in an upper wall.
  • an aerosol generator can be disposed below or beside the fluid flow connector, such that an aerosol inlet accordingly is positioned in a sidewall or bottom wall of the connector.
  • one or more internal surfaces including or other than a bottom surface, can serve as an impact surface that is configured for either trapping deposits associated with an aerosolized active agent, or for communicating the deposits to the delivery outlet so that both the aerosolized active agent and the deposits are delivered to the patient.
  • FIG. 24-25 an alternative fluid flow connector 400 is shown including chamber 202 (as shown and described with reference to Figs. 18-21) and an aerosol conditioning vessel 402 inserted into aerosol inlet 204. It should be understood that the reason fluid flow connectors 200 and 300 are shown in the absence of an aerosol conditioning vessel is because the conditioning vessel is an optional feature that should not be read into claims that do not specifically recite the same.
  • Aerosol conditioning vessel 402 has an inlet 404 for receiving an aerosolized active agent, an outlet 406 that is in fluid communication with aerosol inlet 204, and conditioning gas inlets 408.
  • Conditioning gas can be supplied from an independent source, or can alternatively be "split off of CPAP ventilation gas that is also being introduced into chamber 202 via inlet 212.
  • tubing can be employed that stems trom the ventilation tubing and is connected to inlet 408, or a conduit or channel (located internally or externally) can be employed by connector 200 that extends from chamber 202 to the conditioning vessel to communicate some of the ventilation gas to the conditioning vessel.
  • Conditioning vessel 402 preferably has two diametrically opposed gas inlets 408, but the vessel can employ only one gas inlet, or more than two. When there are two or more gas inlets, it is preferred to dispose them symmetrically about the circumference of the conditioning vessel ("radially symmetric") to facilitate substantially uniform gas flow into the conditioning vessel — non-uniform gas flow can cause deposits to form on the sidewalls of the conditioning vessel. It should be noted however, that asymmetric designs are still within the scope of the present invention, and clinicians can desire non-uniform gas flow in certain applications. Conditioning vessel embodiments that employ only one gas inlet can be designed to maintain radial symmetry of the conditioning gas flow.
  • the conditioning gas inlet can be placed behind the aerosol generator, with the conditioning gas flow directed in the same direction as the aerosol.
  • the conditioning gas passes around the aerosol generator and then meets and envelopes the aerosol stream again, with both the conditioning gas and the aerosol moving in the same direction. Radial symmetry would be maintained such that the conditioning gas would not be blowing the aerosol against a wall.
  • the conditioning vessel can include internal features (e.g., a mesh or set of slits, acting as a diffuser), to ensure radial symmetry of the sheath gas flow once the gas is inside the vessel, prior to communication with the aerosol.
  • aerosol conditioning vessel 402 is basically two cylindrical bodies connected or formed together. Cylindrical body 410 extends partially within cylindrical body 412 to define an annular liquid trap 414 for collecting deposits associated with an aerosolized active agent flowing through the conditioning vessel. Aerosol conditioning vessel 402 can employ a port (not shown) for retrieving deposits collected in liquid trap 414.
  • conditioning vessel 402 is a separately manufactured component and is designed to be removably inserted into aerosol inlet 204, preferably through a cross slit valve, although other types of seals, gaskets, and the like, can be used to prevent appreciable leakage of the aerosolized active agent.
  • the conditioning vessel is simply held in engagement with chamber 202 by friction and dimensional constraints.
  • the aerosol can lubricate component surfaces, and thereby reduce the frictional fit to a point where the conditioning vessel becomes disengaged from chamber 202.
  • locking features (not shown) can be included on each of the components.
  • the components can have mating screw threads on respective engaging surfaces, so that the conditioning vessel can be inserted and then rotated to effect a secure engagement.
  • aerosol inlet 204 has an L-shaped groove and the conditioning vessel has a post that can fit into the groove, whereby the conditioning vessel is inserted axially and then rotated (e.g., by a quarter turn) to lock the components in place.
  • At least a portion of the conditioning vessel and the chamber are formed together (e.g., via injection molding).
  • This one-piece design can employ one or more liquid traps for collecting deposits associated with the aerosolized active agent, and one or more ports for retrieving the deposits.
  • the aerosol generator, fluid flow connector, and optionally conditioning vessel are formed together as a one-piece design. These components can also be manufactured separately and then permanently affixed to each other.
  • a conditioning vessel can be employed to alter the flow of the aerosolized active agent, alter the characteristics of the aerosol, or both.
  • Conditioning gas can help direct the flow of the aerosol through fluid flow connectors of the present invention — i.e., improving the direction coherence of the stream of aerosol particles.
  • Conditioning gas can, in some embodiments, alter the characteristics of the incoming aerosol by modifying the ratio of active agent to medium, or by reducing the mass median aerodynamic diameter of the aerosol particles, for example.
  • Active agent concentrating chambers can be utilized with fluid flow connectors of the present invention. These concentrating chambers would typically be disposed between the aerosol generator and the main chambers (e.g., 202 and 302) of the connectors as discussed above. For example, an exemplary concentrating chamber 500 is shown in Fig. 27 disposed above a fluid flow connector 510. Preferred concentrating chambers are intended to facilitate the creation of a high density aerosol cloud that can then be communicated to a patient for maximizing the delivery rate of the active agent.
  • One way of generating a high density aerosol cloud is by restricting the flow of the aerosol from the aerosol generator to a delivery chamber associated with a fluid flow connector, so that the active agent is concentrated prior to delivery.
  • a simple flexible tube (or other chamber) containing a one-way valve can be placed between the aerosol generator and the delivery chamber.
  • the one-way valve (see, e.g., valve 520 in Fig. 27) will normally be closed, and negative pressure generated by a patient's inhalation will actuate the valve and permit a concentrated portion of the aerosolized active agent to be delivered.
  • Restricting the aerosol can be accomplished by any number of techniques other than incorporating a one-way valve between the aerosol generator and the delivery chamber.
  • Fluid How connectors ot the present invention can employ a collection reservoir that is disposed below the delivery chambers for sequestering deposits associated with an aerosolized active agent.
  • the collection reservoirs provide for an "automatic" removal of deposits from a fluid flow connector's chamber as compared to manual removal with a syringe or other suitable device.
  • the collection reservoirs can be employed as additional means to collecting deposits (e.g., traps, chamber internal geometry), or can serve as an alternative to the aforementioned deposit collecting features.
  • the collection reservoirs can be connected either directly or indirectly (e.g. with a conduit) to the delivery chambers.
  • the collection reservoirs are disposable, such that a filled (partially or completely) collection reservoir can be removed and a new one connected for accepting subsequent deposits.
  • the collection reservoirs can be configured to accept disposable inserts, such as, for example, absorbent nonwoven pads.
  • Collection reservoir 600 is connected to a fluid flow connector 610 via a conduit 620. Since fluid flow connector 610 includes a concavity 612, deposits can initially be collected in the concavity and then drain into collection reservoir 600. This "draining" effect provides yet another means for keeping collected deposits separated from the aerosol main flow path.
  • an aerosol generator and fluid flow connector can be located distal from a patient, with the aerosolized active agent communicated to the patient via flexible tubing, an optional second connector (which can or can not be designed to trap deposits), and an appropriate interface, such as, for example, nasal prongs.
  • the methods and systems described herein are particularly useful in rescue and prophylactic treatment of infants with RDS and in adults with ARDS.
  • the actual dosage of active agents will of course vary according to factors such as the extent of exposure and particular status of the subject (e.g., the subject's age, size, fitness, extent of symptoms, susceptibility factors, etc).
  • effective dose herein is meant a dose that produces effects for which it is administered. The exact dose will be ascertainable by one skilled in the art using known techniques.
  • the effective dose of lung surfactant for delivery to a patient by the present methods will be from about 2 mg/kg surfactant TPL to about 175 mg/kg surfactant TPL.
  • the length of treatment time will also be ascertainable by one skilled in the art and will depend on dose administered and delivery rate of the active agent. For example, in embodiments wherein the delivery rate of aerosol to a patient is about 0.6 mg/min, greater than 100 mg of aerosol can be delivered in less than a 3 hour time frame. It will be understood by the skilled practitioner that a lower delivery rate will correspond to longer administration times and a higher delivery rate will correspond to shorter times. Similarly, a change in dose will effect treatment time.
  • the methods and systems are also useful in treating other clinical disorders as seen in infants and other pediatric patient populations such as, by way of example cystic fibrosis, intervention for infectious processes, bronchiolitis, and the like.
  • respiratory disorders include, for example, but are not limited to the disorders of neonatal pulmonary hypertension, neonatal bronchopulmonary dysplasia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, acute and chronic bronchitis, emphysema, bronchiolitis, bronchiectasis, radiation pneumonitis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, acute inflammatory asthma, acute smoke inhalation, thermal lung injury, asthma, e.g., allergic asthma and iatrogenic asthma, silicosis, airway obstruction, cystic fibrosis, alveolar proteinosis, Alpha- 1-protease deficiency, pulmonary inflammatory disorders, pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute lung injury, idiopathic respiratory distress syndrome, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, sinusitis, rhinitis, tracheitis, otitis, and the like. Accordingly, the present invention provides methods of neonatal pulmonary hypertension, neonatal bronchopulmonary dysplasia, chronic o
  • PA palmitic acid
  • the basis of the composition is a combination of DPPC, POPG, palmitic acid (PA) and a 21 mer peptide, sinapultide (KL4) consisting of lysine-leucine (4) repeats.
  • the peptide was produced by conventional solid phase t-Boc chemistry and has a molecular weight of 2469.34 units as the free base.
  • the components were combined as described below, in the mass ratio of 7.5:2.5:1.5:0.267 as DPPC:POPG:PA:KL4 to produce a stable colloidal dispersion in an aqueous trimethamine (20 mM) and sodium chloride (130 mM) buffer adjusted to a pH of 7.6 at room temperature. Concentrations of 10, 20, and 30 mg/ml of phospholipid content were produced.
  • Residual ethanol was then removed by storing the flask for at least 12 hours within a vacuum desiccator.
  • the dried film was hydrated in tris-acetate and then salt was added post hydration at a temperature of 50-55°C in combination with waterbath sonication for approximately 30 minutes ensuring complete hydration of the film and the absence of visible aggregates in the final aqueous dispersion.
  • Example 1 A composition of Example 1 was prepared at a concentration of 15 mg/ml.
  • Fig. 12 illustrates in schematic view the system that was employed. It should be noted that there is an outlet in-line with line 70 that is not shown.
  • an Aeroneb Pro nebulizer (Aerogen, Inc., Mountain View, CA) was used to aerosolize the composition. The aerosol was conditioned by the system and the conditioned aerosol was directed toward nasal prongs (Fisher-Paykel, NZ).
  • a ventilator was used to create a CPAP-producing gas flow and was set at 6 1/min flow rate and 5 cm H2O CPAP.
  • the infant breathing pattern was mimicked using a ventilator that was set at 54 bpm and tidal volume of 6.4 ml.
  • the ventilator was connected downstream of the collection system (not shown). Without the sheath gas, negligible aerosol passed through the nasal prongs and most of the aerosol deposited on the system components.
  • Example 2 The same setup and experimental conditions as used in Example 2 were employed to examine the effect of conditioning gas flow rate and temperature on the amount of aerosol emerging from the delivery apparatus.
  • nasal prongs were employed.
  • a conditioning gas flow rate of 1 1/min increasing the gas temperature from 25 to 37°C, increased the amount of conditioned aerosol emerging through the prongs (collected in the filter) by about 38%.
  • the results are presented in Fig. 14.
  • higher conditioning gas temperature provides more energy to evaporate moisture in the droplets creating smaller droplets, and thus decreased deposition losses by particle coalescence and/or deposition on surfaces.
  • FIG. 15 shows the percentage of conditioned aerosol that passed through the prong with different conditioning gas flow rates and temperatures, i.e. 19% for 1 1/min at 25°C, 25% for 1 1/min at 37°C and 16% for 2 1/min and 37°C.
  • Example 2 The same experimental setup and conditions as used in Example 2 were employed.
  • the conditioned aerosol size and size distribution were determined using laser diffraction analysis (Sympatec Helos/BF, Sympatec, Princeton, NJ).
  • increasing the conditioning gas temperature from 25 to 37 0 C decreased aerosol volume median diameter (d50), i.e. 3.5 to 3.1 ⁇ m for 1 1/min and 3.17 to 2.0 ⁇ m using the 21/min sheath gas flow rate.
  • d50 aerosol volume median diameter
  • the effect of conditioning gas temperature on aerosol size is more pronounced at a higher gas flow rate.
  • lpm refers to liters per minute
  • ET refers to elevated temperature or 37°C
  • RT refers to room temperature or 25 0 C.
  • FiO 2 for Subjects 3 and 4 were 0.28 and 0.40 at baseline, respectively.
  • Subject 3 had two treatments with Surfaxin ® aerosol, similar reductions in FiO 2 were seen with a reduction in FiO 2 to 0.22 and 0.23, respectively.
  • the following exemplary protocol was followed:
  • the CPAP circuit could remain operational with no further changes, however to completely remove the apparatus continued with the steps below: a. Turned off the Infant Star ventilator. b. Removed the ventilator tubes from the Device Support Unit and withdrew the nasal prongs from the infant's nares. 50. Unplugged the Aeroneb Pro Control Module Cable from the nebulizer head.
  • Example 1 The same experimental setup and conditions as used in Example 2 were employed. A composition of Example 1 was prepared at concentrations of 10 and 30 mg/ml. Increasing the formulation concentration increased the amount of total phospholipids emerging from the endotracheal tube ( ⁇ 4.1 mg/min for the 10 mg/ml formulation vs. ⁇ 5.5 mg/min for the 30 mg/ml formulation), as indicated in Fig. 33.

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Abstract

Cette invention se rapporte à des procédés, des systèmes et des dispositifs d’administration pulmonaire d’agents actifs en aérosols en combinaison avec une thérapie de ventilation à pression positive et à des procédés de traitement d’un dysfonctionnement respiratoire.
EP05786427A 2004-05-20 2005-08-23 Procédés, systèmes et dispositifs d"administration pulmonaire non-invasive Withdrawn EP1796770A1 (fr)

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US57357004P 2004-05-20 2004-05-20
US60538904P 2004-08-27 2004-08-27
US67315505P 2005-04-20 2005-04-20
US11/130,783 US20060078506A1 (en) 2004-05-20 2005-05-17 Methods, systems and devices for noninvasive pulmonary delivery
US11/209,588 US20060120968A1 (en) 2004-05-20 2005-08-22 Methods, systems and devices for delivery of pulmonary surfactants
PCT/US2005/029811 WO2006026237A1 (fr) 2004-05-20 2005-08-23 Procédés, systèmes et dispositifs d’administration pulmonaire non-invasive

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