Copley Scientific Previews New Apparatus for Metered Dose Inhaler Testing at DDL 25

Copley Scientific will be displaying the smart new Facemask Testing Apparatus for metered dose inhaler (MDI) testing, in accordance with a recently released draft US Pharmacopoeia (USP) chapter, at Drug Delivery to the Lungs 25 (DDL 25). DDL 25 takes place in the Edinburgh International Conference Centre, Scotland, from 10 to 12 December 2014.

Also on display will be other items from the Copley product range that improve the effectiveness and efficiency of inhaled product testing, including the new NGI Component Carrying and Rinsing Rack, which streamlines post analysis workflow.

MDIs provide inexpensive and effective relief from asthma and other pulmonary diseases, but can be difficult for certain patient groups to use, most especially children and the elderly. The use of spacers and valved holding chambers (VHCs) eliminates the need to co-ordinate inhalation with actuation of the device, making MDIs easier to operate successfully. Draft USP chapter <1602>, which was released at the beginning of 2014, specifically addresses the testing of MDIs with spacers and VHCs and calls for the testing of facemasks, where they are used, to reflect clinical practice.

The new Facemask Testing Apparatus from Copley Scientific comprises a range of angle adjustable face models with replaceable skins, a slide rail mechanism and integrated load cell for precise, calibrated control of the applied force when advancing the facemask against the face model. All components are mounted on a base plate using quick release fittings and the apparatus as a whole interfaces, using the appropriate filter holder and adapters, to the Copley range of breath simulators. The apparatus is also designed to accommodate a wide range of spacer and VHC designs.

The face models used (baby, child and adult variants available) are based on the internationally recognised Laerdal geometries, but the system can be purchased and adapted, by the user, for use with other face models if required. Significant consideration has been given both to the relevance and ease of testing and Copley Scientific is looking forward to gathering initial customer feedback at DDL.