The latest innovative technologies for dry-powder inhalers at Hosokawa Micron

Hosokawa Micron offers solutions for dry-powder inhalers, or DPIs.

Hosokawa Micron powder-handling solutions are available from Firing Industries Ltd., including equipment for dry-powder inhalers, or DPIs. Some manufacturers settle for cost-efficient ways to make generic DPIs from representative formulations, but others are creating new formulations for novel drugs with superior properties to reach new markets and treatment types.

In a recent article for PMPS, Hosokawa Micron representative Bert Dekens explains the latest technologies that the company is using for all DPI needs.

Particle-size distribution of powders

A major factor in all DPI formulations is particle-size distribution of powders, according to Dekens. A major concern for the selection of suitable technologies is the processing of these powders, giving them the required properties. Manufacturers must assess, tune, and balance many aspects, like technology and processing parameters, to get optimal results.

Flowability is a vital property in the selected mixing technology. Among the factors that influence flowability are particle size and shape, electrostatic charges, adhesion, and cohesion. The more cohesive the material, the higher the mixing intensity should be to get a homogeneous mixture. Many industries use this as a starting point in various applications.

Free-flowing powder can be found in many pharmaceutical, food, and chemical products. Low-shear mixing is suitable in some cases and may even be necessary to apply a limited amount of mixing energy to the powder. In pharmaceutical products, low-shear mixing technology is used for mixing oral products, but also for heat-sensitive products for cell culture media. Workers can avoid segregation effects after mixing, through careful handling, as well as vibration and free falling.

In DPI mixtures, a key issue is mixing powders with varying properties homogeneously to give them the required aerosol properties. Usually, the first mixing step is preparing the lactose blend of coarse and fine crystals. A fairly gentle mixing technology can be enough for a homogeneous mixture. More intensive technology is necessary for modifying the lactose properties by changing the form or coating it with other material.

Firing Industries can team up with Hosokawa Micron for these DPI strategies and more.

To learn more, contact Firing Industries’ application-sales engineers at ddubuc@firing.com or (877) 688-0974.

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