A user actuation device for use with an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament

Abstract

A user actuation device 1 for use with an inhaler 2 for providing an inhalable medicament, the inhaler having non-discharge and discharge configurations, wherein the user actuation device comprises a

Description

Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a user actuation device for use with an inhaler for providing inhalable medicament. In particular, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to a user actuation device for use with a metered-dose inhaler for discharging an inhalable medicament. The present invention also relates to an assembly comprising the user actuation device and an inhaler, to a kit of parts, to a method of installing a user actuation device on an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, to a method of use of said assembly, to a computer implemented method for a client device associated with the user actuation device, to a data processing device for carrying out the computer implemented method, a client device comprising the data processing device, a computer program which when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the computer implemented method and to a computer-readable medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the computer implemented method. Background of the Invention There are various types of inhalers for dispensing inhalable medicament to treat a variety of diseases, in particular respiratory diseases including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory diseases . One type of inhaler is a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) that provides a specific dose of medicament to be inhaled by the patient. The dose is delivered as a short burst of aerosolised medicine . The metered-dose inhaler comprises a cannister, containing a pressurised inhalable medicament, that is slidably mounted in a housing and is connected to a mouthpiece, via a discharge mechanism in the form of a metering valve. In use, a patient pushes down, on the top of the cannister, that protrudes above an upper end of the housing, with their thumb below the mouthpiece and a finger on the top of the cannister, applying a pushing force. This pushes the cannister down into the housing, to a discharge position, in which the metering valve is moved to a discharge configuration, causing a dose of the medicament to spray out of the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the patient. However, such an inhaler requires the patient to have a certain level of strength and dexterity in their hands, which certain patients may not have, for example patients with arthritis . If a patient uses an inhaler incorrectly, this can have various negative implications including medicine becoming ineffective as the whole dose is not released or inhaled. It also adds mounting pressure on hospitals, due to increased drug usage, hospital visits and consultations, than would be required if the inhaler was used correctly. Corresponding problems exist with other types of inhalers that require operation by hand. The present invention seeks to address or mitigate at least some of the above mentioned problems. Alternatively, or additionally, the present invention seeks to provide an improved user actuation device for use with an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament. Alternatively, or additionally, the present invention seeks to provide an improved method of use of Summary of the Invention According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided user actuation device for use with an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, the inhaler being configurable between a non-discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through a mouthpiece of the inhaler, and a discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece of the inhaler; wherein the user actuation device comprises: a bite engagement part for being positioned adjacent to and spaced from said mouthpiece such that, in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting against the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other; and an inhaler actuation part coupled to the bite engagement part and for engaging with the inhaler such that when a user bites the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part actuates the inhaler, using the applied bite-force, from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration. As the user actuation device allows an inhaler to be operated using a person's bite-force, instead of by hand, this may allow for an inhaler to be used by a person that lacks sufficient strength or dexterity in their hands, for example a person suffering from arthritis. Optionally: the user actuation device is for use with an inhaler comprising a mouthpiece, a housing, a container and a discharge mechanism, the container containing a medicament and being slidably mounted in the housing for slidable movement relative to the housing such that the container is movable relative to the housing, from a non-discharge position to a discharge position; wherein the discharge mechanism is configured such that when the container is in the non-discharge position, the medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the user; and when the container is in the discharge position, at least part of the medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the user; wherein the user actuation device comprises a mounting part for mounting the inhaler actuation part to said housing such that, when the user bites the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part is moved relative to the housing and exerts a force on the container, via contact with the container, to move the container relative to the housing from the non-discharge position to the discharge position. Optionally the inhaler actuation part is configured such that when a user bites the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part exerts a force on an end of the container to move the container relative to the housing from the non-discharge position to the discharge position. Optionally the mounting part is for being slidably mounted to said housing such that, when the user bites the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, the mounting part slides relative to the housing, thereby causing translational movement of the inhaler actuation part relative to the housing, with the inhaler actuation part exerting a force on the container, via contact with the container, to move the container relative to the housing from the non-discharge position to the discharge position. Optionally in respect of the inhaler that the user actuation device is for use with, the container contains an inhalable medicament that is pressurised such that when the container is in the discharge position, at least part of the medicament is expelled from the container and out of the mouthpiece. The medicament may be dissolved or suspended in a propellant, for example a liquefied gas propellant. In this respect, when the medicament (and propellant) is discharged from the mouthpiece, the volatile propellant breaks up into droplets, followed by rapid evaporation of these droplets, which results in the generation of an aerosol consisting of particles of the medicament that are then inhaled. Optionally the mounting part comprises at least one inner surface for slidably mounting against an outer surface of the housing of a said inhaler. Optionally the mounting part comprises first and second opposed inner surfaces for slidably mounting against a respective outer surface of the housing of a said inhaler. Optionally the mounting part is for mounting the inhaler actuation part to said inhaler housing such that, when the container is in the non-discharge position, the bite engagement part is positioned above and spaced from said mouthpiece such that, in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting against an upper surface of the bite engagement part and a lower surface of the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other. Optionally the mounting part at least partially extends around an internal volume for receiving at least part of the housing of a said inhaler. Optionally the inhaler actuation part comprises a surface for abutting against an end of the container to actuate the container from the non-discharge position to the discharge position. Optionally the surface is substantially planar. Optionally the internal volume extends along a longitudinal axis and the surface, of the inhaler actuation part, extends generally in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the internal volume. Optionally the mounting part has a first end that is open, for receiving the housing of a said inhaler through, into said internal volume, and a second end that is at least partially closed by the inhaler actuation part. Optionally the inhaler actuation part substantially entirely closes the second end of the mounting part. Optionally the internal volume extends along a longitudinal axis and the bite engagement part comprises a surface, for being so bitten against, that extends outwardly from the mounting part in a general direction that is inclined relative to said longitudinal axis. Optionally the surface, of the bite engagement part, is substantially planar. Optionally said surface is substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal axis. Optionally, the user actuation device extends from a first end to a second end; the first end comprises the bite engagement part and the second end comprises the inhaler actuation part; and wherein the bite engagement part is connected to the inhaler actuation part by the mounting part. Optionally the inhaler actuation part is connected to the bite engagement part, via the mounting part, such that the inhaler actuation part is substantially translationally fixed relative to the bite engagement part such that translational movement of the bite engagement part, relative to the mouthpiece, caused by a user biting the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, causes translational movement of the inhaler actuation part, relative to the housing, for moving the container from the non-discharge position to the discharge position, via contact of the inhaler actuation part with the container. Optionally the bite engagement part is connected to the mounting part, such that the bite engagement part is translationally fixed relative to the mounting part. Optionally the bite engagement part is connected to the mounting part, such that the bite engagement part is rotationally fixed relative to the mounting part. Optionally the user actuation device comprises a body and wherein the mounting part, bite engagement part and inhaler actuation part each comprise a part of said body and wherein the body is formed from a single piece of material. Optionally the user actuation device comprises: a sensor for detecting when the user actuation device actuates the inhaler from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration, and a transmitter; wherein the sensor is operatively connected to the transmitter such that when then sensor detects when the user actuation device actuates the inhaler from the non- discharge configuration to the discharge configuration, the transmitter transmits a signal representative of said actuation. Optionally the sensor is operatively connected to the transmitter by a data processing means such that when the sensor detects that the user actuation device actuates the inhaler from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration, the transmitter transmits a signal representative of said actuation. The signal may contain information that the user actuation device has actuated the inhaler from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration. Optionally the user actuation device comprises a battery configured to power the sensor, transmitter and / or data processing means. According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided an inhaler and user actuation device assembly comprising: an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, the inhaler being configurable between a non-discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through a mouthpiece of the inhaler, and a discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece of the inhaler; and a user actuation device according to the first aspect of the invention; wherein the bite engagement part of the user actuation device is positioned adjacent to and spaced from the mouthpiece of the inhaler such that, in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting against the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other; and wherein the inhaler actuation part is arranged to engage with the inhaler such that when a user bites the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part actuates the inhaler, using the applied bite-force, from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration. Optionally: the inhaler comprises a mouthpiece, a housing, a container and a discharge mechanism, the container containing a medicament and being slidably mounted in the housing for slidable movement relative to the housing such that the container is movable relative to the housing, from a non-discharge position to a discharge position; wherein the discharge mechanism is configured such that when the container is in the non-discharge position, the medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the user; and when the container is in the discharge position, at least part of the medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the user; wherein the user actuation device comprises a mounting part that mounts the inhaler actuation part to said housing such that, when the user bites the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part is moved relative to the housing and exerts a force on the container, via contact with the container, to move the container relative to the housing from the non-discharge position to the discharge position. Optionally the container is configured to move relative to the housing, from the non-discharge position to the discharge position, along a longitudinal axis. Optionally in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other in the direction substantially parallel to said longitudinal axis. Optionally the mounting part is configured to be slidably mounted to said inhaler housing such that the mounting part translates along said longitudinal axis when a user bites the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other. Optionally the mounting part is slidably mounted to said housing such that, when the user bites the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, the mounting part slides relative to the housing, thereby causing translational movement of the inhaler actuation part relative to the housing, with the inhaler actuation part exerting a force on the container, via contact with the container, to move the container relative to the housing from the non-discharge position to the discharge position. Optionally the inhaler actuation part is configured such that when a user bites the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part exerts a force on an end of the container to move the container relative to the housing from the non-discharge position to the discharge position. Optionally the container contains a medicament that is pressurised such that when the container is in the discharge position, at least part of the medicament is discharged from the inhaler, under pressure, out of the mouthpiece. The discharge mechanism is operatively connected to the container such that when the container is in the non-discharge position, the inhalable medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the user; and when the container is in the discharge position, at least part of the inhalable medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the user. The container (i.e. the interior of the container) is in fluid communication with the discharge mechanism and the discharge mechanism is in fluid communication with the mouthpiece. The container (i.e. the interior of the container) may be in selective fluid communication with the mouthpiece via the discharge mechanism. Optionally the discharge mechanism comprises a metering valve configured such that a specific dose of the medicament is discharged from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by a user, when the container is moved from the nondischarge position to the discharge position. Optionally the metering valve comprises: a metering chamber; a first valve; and a second valve, wherein the first and second valves are configured such that: when the container is in the non-discharge position, the first valve is in an open configuration, in which the interior of the container is in fluid communication with the metering chamber such that medicament can pass from the container into the metering chamber and the second valve is in a closed configuration in which the metering chamber is not in fluid communication with the mouthpiece such that medicament cannot pass from the metering chamber to the mouthpiece; and when the container is in the discharge position, the first valve is in a closed configuration, in which the interior of the container is not in fluid communication with the metering chamber such that medicament cannot pass from the container into the metering chamber and the second valve is in an open configuration in which the metering chamber is in fluid communication with the mouthpiece such that medicament can pass from metering chamber to the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the user. Optionally the inhaler comprises a nozzle that is in fluid communication with the discharge mechanism such that medicament that passes out of the discharge mechanism passes through the nozzle and is sprayed out of the nozzle . Optionally the mouthpiece is fluidly connected to the discharge mechanism via the nozzle. Optionally the inhaler comprises an expansion chamber and the nozzle is in said fluid communication with the discharge mechanism via the expansion chamber, wherein the expansion chamber is configured such that the medicament expands and vaporises in the expansion chamber. Optionally the mounting part comprises at least one inner surface slidably mounted against an outer surface of the housing of the inhaler. Optionally the mounting part comprises first and second opposed inner surfaces slidably mounted against a respective outer surface of the housing of the inhaler. Optionally the mounting part mounts the inhaler actuation part to said inhaler housing such that, when the container is in the non-discharge position, the bite engagement part is positioned above and spaced from said mouthpiece such that, in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting against an upper surface of the bite engagement part and a lower surface of the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other. Optionally the mounting part at least partially extends around an internal volume that receives at least part of the housing of the inhaler. Optionally the mounting part has a first end that is open, for receiving the housing of the inhaler through, into said internal volume, and a second end that is at least partially closed by the inhaler actuation part. Optionally the inhaler actuation part substantially entirely closes the second end of the mounting part. Optionally the internal volume extends along a longitudinal axis and the bite engagement part comprises a surface that extends outwardly from the mounting part in a general direction that is inclined relative to said longitudinal axis. According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a kit of parts comprising: an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, the inhaler being configurable between a non-discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through a mouthpiece of the inhaler, and a discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece of the inhaler; and a user actuation device according to the first aspect of the invention; wherein the bite engagement part of the user actuation device is for being positioned adjacent to and spaced from the mouthpiece of the inhaler such that, in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting against the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other; and wherein the inhaler actuation part is for engagement with the inhaler such that when a user bites the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part actuates the inhaler, using the applied bite-force, from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration. Optionally: the inhaler comprises a mouthpiece, a housing, a container and a discharge mechanism, the container containing a medicament and being slidably mounted in the housing for slidable movement relative to the housing such that the container is movable relative to the housing, from a nondischarge position to a discharge position; wherein the discharge mechanism is configured such that when the container is in the non-discharge position, the medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the user; and when the container is in the discharge position, at least part of the medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the user ; wherein the user actuation device comprises a mounting part for mounting the inhaler actuation part to said housing such that, when the user bites the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part is moved relative to the housing and exerts a force on the container, via contact with the container, to move the container relative to the housing from the non-discharge position to the discharge position. According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a method of installing a user actuation device on an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament: the inhaler being configurable between a non-discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through a mouthpiece of the inhaler, and a discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece of the inhaler; wherein the user actuation device comprises: a bite engagement part; and an inhaler actuation part coupled to the bite engagement part ; wherein the method comprises: arranging the user actuation device with the inhaler such the bite engagement part is positioned adjacent to and spaced from said mouthpiece such that, in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting against the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, and the inhaler actuation part is for engaging with the inhaler such that when a user bites the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part actuates the inhaler, using the applied bite-force, from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration. According to a fifth aspect of the invention there is provided a method of use of an inhaler and actuation device assembly according to the second aspect of the invention, the method comprising: applying a bite-force by biting against the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, wherein the inhaler actuation part engages with the inhaler such that the inhaler actuation part actuates the inhaler, using the applied bite-force, from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration. According to a sixth aspect of the invention there is provided a computer implemented method for a client device associated with a user actuation device for use with an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, the inhaler being configurable between a non-discharge configuration in which an inhalable medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through a mouthpiece of the inhaler, and a discharge configuration in which the inhalable medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece of the inhaler; wherein the user actuation device comprises: a bite engagement part for being positioned adjacent to and spaced from said mouthpiece such that, in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting against the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other; and an inhaler actuation part coupled to the bite engagement part and for engaging with the inhaler such that when a user bites the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part actuates the inhaler, using the applied bite-force, from the nondischarge configuration to the discharge configuration; wherein the user actuation device comprises: a sensor for detecting when the user actuation device actuates the inhaler from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration, and a transmitter; wherein the sensor is operatively connected to the transmitter such that when then sensor detects when the user actuation device actuates the inhaler from the nondischarge configuration to the discharge configuration, the transmitter transmits a signal representative of said actuation; the method comprising: deriving data in dependence on at least one received said signal, and displaying the derived data on a display of the client device . Optionally the method comprises receiving at least one said signal from the transmitter, with a receiver of the client device, and deriving said data in dependence on the at least one received said signal. Optionally the method comprises storing data derived from said at least one signal in a memory of the client device. Optionally the method comprises deriving data in dependence on the data stored in the memory and displaying the derived data on a display of the client device. Optionally the method comprises deriving said data with a data processing means. Optionally the data processing means comprises a central processing unit and a memory. Optionally the method comprises displaying information derived from the derived data. Optionally the derived data / information relates to the usage of the inhaler. Optionally the derived data / information comprises the number of times, timing and / or frequency of use of actuation of the inhaler by the user actuation device. Optionally the derived data comprises information that relates to whether specified dosage regimes have been complied with, etc. According to a seventh aspect of the invention there is provided a data processing device comprising means for carrying out the steps of the method of the sixth aspect of the invention. According to an eighth aspect of the invention there is provided a client device comprising a data processing device according to the seventh aspect of the invention. According to a ninth aspect of the invention there is provided a computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method of the sixth aspect of the invention. According to a tenth aspect of the invention there is provided a computer-readable medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method of the sixth aspect of the invention. According to an eleventh aspect of the invention there is provided a system comprising: a user actuation device for use with an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, the inhaler being configurable between a non-discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through a mouthpiece of the inhaler, and a discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece of the inhaler; wherein the user actuation device comprises: a bite engagement part for being positioned adjacent to and spaced from said mouthpiece such that, in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting against the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other; and an inhaler actuation part coupled to the bite engagement part and for engaging with the inhaler such that when a user bites the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part actuates the inhaler, using the applied bite-force, from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration; wherein the user actuation device comprises: a sensor for detecting when the user actuation device actuates the inhaler from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration, and a transmitter; wherein the sensor is operatively connected to the transmitter such that when then sensor detects when the user actuation device actuates the inhaler from the nondischarge configuration to the discharge configuration, the transmitter transmits a signal representative of said actuation; the system further comprising a client device comprising: a receiver for receiving said signal; a display; a data processing device comprising means for: deriving data in dependence on at least one received said signal, and operating the display to display the derived data on the display. Optionally the data processing device is operatively connected to the receiver to receive said at least one signal and derive data from said signal. Optionally the data processing device comprises a memory. Optionally the data processing device is configured such that data derived by the data processing device is stored in the memory. Optionally the data processing means comprises a central processing unit operatively connected to the memory such that data derived by the data processing means is stored in the memory. Optionally the data processing means is configured to derive data in dependence on the data stored in the memory and display the derived data on the display. Optionally: the data processing means comprises a computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by the data processing means, cause the data processing means to derive data in dependence on the data stored in the memory and operate the display to display the derived data on the display; and / or the data processing means comprises computer hardware configured such that the data processing means derives data in dependence on the data stored in the memory and operates the display to display the derived data on the display. Optionally the client device comprises a battery configured to power the receiver, data processing means, memory and / or display. The medicament is a substance for use as a medicine. In this respect, the medicament is a medication. The medicament may be for diagnosing, curing, treating and / or preventing a disease. The medicament may be for treating a respiratory disease. For example, the medicament may be for treating at least one of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The medicament may comprise at least one drug. The medicament may be a comprise a formulation comprising at least one drug. The at least one drug may be for treating a respiratory disease. The medicament may, for example, comprise a bronchodilator, corticosteroid, a steroids, an antiinflammatory agent, or a combination thereof for treating asthma and / or COPD. The medicament may be dissolved or suspended in propellant, for example a liquefied gas propellant. The medicament may comprise one or more stabilising excipients. The features of any of the above aspects of the invention may be combined with one or more features of any of the other aspects of the invention, in any combination. For example, the user actuation device of the assembly of the second aspect of the invention may comprise any of the features of the user actuation device of the first aspect of the invention. Any feature of the user actuation device or inhaler in any aspect of the invention may be combined with any feature of any kit of parts, system or method as set our above. Other preferred and advantageous features of the invention will be apparent from the following description. Description of the Drawings A specific embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to the description and drawings. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a user actuation device for use with an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, according to a first embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 shows a side perspective view of an assembly comprising the user actuation device shown in Figure 1 and an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, where the user actuation device is installed on the inhaler and where the inhaler is in a non-discharge configuration (a model of a human skull is also shown to illustrate how a user bite-operates the actuation device); Figure 3A shows a cross-sectional view of a user actuation device, for use with an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, according to a second embodiment of the invention, taken along a plane that is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the user actuation device; Figure 3B shows a view corresponding to that of Figure 3A but from a slightly lower angle; Figure 3C shows a side view of the user actuation device shown in Figures 3A to 3B; Figure 3D shows a corresponding view as in Figure 3C, but from the other side; Figure 3E shows a rear view of the user actuation device shown in Figures 3A to 3D; Figure 3F shows a front view of the user actuation device shown in Figures 3A to 3E; Figure 3G shows a top down view of the user actuation device shown in Figures 3A to 3F; Figure 4A shows a view from the front and to one side of an assembly comprising a user actuation device, for use with an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, according to a third embodiment of the invention and an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, where the user actuation device is installed on the inhaler and where the inhaler is in a nondischarge configuration; Figure 4B corresponds to Figure 4A but shows a view from the front and to the other side of the assembly; Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a user actuation device, for use with an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, according to a fourth embodiment of the invention; Figure 6A shows a cross-sectional schematic view of an assembly comprising the user actuation device shown in Figures 3A to 3G and an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, where the user actuation device is installed on the inhaler and where the inhaler is in a non-discharge configuration; Figure 6B shows a view corresponding to that of Figure 6A but where the inhaler is in a discharge configuration; Figures 7A to 70 each show a cross-sectional schematic view of part of the inhaler, in particular a discharging mechanism of the inhaler, and sequentially show where the inhaler is moved from the non-discharge configuration (shown in Figure 7A) , through an intermediate position (shown in Figure 7B) , to the discharge configuration (shown in Figure 7C) (for illustrative purposes, in Figures 7A to 7C the valve stem is shown slightly elongated (relative to in Figures 6A and 6B); Figure 8 shows a schematic view of a system comprising the inhaler shown in Figure 5 and a client device; Figure 9 is a flow chart showing steps in the method of installing the user actuation device (of any of the embodiments) on the inhaler, and Figure 10 is a flow chart showing steps in the method of a computer implemented method for a client device associated with the user actuation device. Detailed Description Referring to Figures 1 and 2 there is shown a user actuation device 1, for use with an inhaler 2 for providing an inhalable medicament, according to a first embodiment of the invention. Figures 3A to 3G show a user actuation device 1, for use with an inhaler 2 for providing an inhalable medicament, according to a second embodiment of the invention. The second embodiment is substantially the same as the first embodiment with the only difference being a slight change in the external shape of the user actuation device and corresponding features are given corresponding reference numerals. Referring to Figures 2, 4A, 4B, 6A and 6B and 7A to 7C, the inhaler 2 is a metered-dose inhaler (MDI). The inhaler 2 comprises a housing 3 and a container 4, in the form of a cannister 4, containing a pressurised inhalable medicament 45, 46. The housing 3 comprises a main section 3a that has the general shape of an elongate hollow tube and extends from a first end 31 to a second end 32 along a longitudinal axis A. The housing 3 has an outer surface 3' that extends around the longitudinal axis A. In the orientation shown in the figures, which depicts the orientation of the inhaler 2 during normal use, the first end 31 is a lower end and the second end 32 is an upper end. The second end 32 of the housing 3 is an open end, through which a second end 4b of the container 4 protrudes when the container 4 is in a non-discharge position (described below). The first end 31 of the housing 3 is connected to a lower section 3b of the housing 3. The lower section 3b of the housing 3 has the general shape of a hollow tube that extends along a longitudinal axis B, which is inclined at an obtuse angle (a) to the longitudinal axis A of the main section 3a, from the first end 31 of the main section 3a to a mouthpiece end 33 that is connected to a mouthpiece 8. The mouthpiece 8 has the general shape of a hollow tube and extends forwardly from a first end 8a, connected to the mouthpiece end 33 of the lower section 3b of the housing 3, to a second end 8b that is open and for a user to place their mouth around to inhale medicament discharged through the mouthpiece 8 (described below). The mouthpiece 8 is located on a front side of inhaler 2. The mouthpiece 8 has an upper surface 8'' and a lower surface 8' . Referring to Figures 6A and 6B, the container 4 has the general shape of a hollow cylinder that extends from a first end 4a to a second end 4b. In the orientation shown in the figures, which depicts the orientation of the inhaler 2 during normal use, the first end 4a is a lower end and the second end 4b is an upper end. The second end 4b is a closed end of the container 4 and has the general shape of a substantially planar circular disc. The container 4 contains a medicament 45, 46. In the currently described embodiments, the medicament 45, 46 is for treating a respiratory disease. The medicament 45, 46 comprises a formulation of one or more drugs for treating a respiratory disease. The respiratory disease may be at least one of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The medicament 45, 46 in the container 5 is aerosol based. In this respect, the medicament 45, 46 is dissolved or suspended in a propellant, for example a liquefied gas propellant. The medicament 45, 46 is present in the container 4 in both a liquid phase 45 and a gas phase 46 and is pressurised such that when the container 4 is in the discharge position (described below) , a metered dose of the medicament is discharged, under pressure, from the mouthpiece 8, via a discharge mechanism comprising a metering valve 7. In this respect, it will be appreciated that references to the container containing an 'inhalable' medicament includes where the medicament is in a liquid phase in container, i.e. before being vaporised for inhalation, as well as where the medicament is in a gas phase in the container. In this respect, when the medicament is in the container in a liquid phase, it is for inhalation when vaporised. The container 4 is slidably mounted in the main section 3a of the housing 3, for slidable movement relative to the housing 3, along said housing axis A, between a non-discharge position (as shown in Figures 2, 4A and 4B and 6A) and a discharge position (as shown in Figure 6B). In this respect, when the container 4 is in the nondischarge position, the second end 4b of the container 4 protrudes out of (above) the second end 32 of the housing 3. When the container 4 is in the discharge position, the second end 4b of the container 4 is pushed down in the housing 3 such that the second 4b of the container 4 is substantially flush with the second end 32 of the housing 3. When the container 4 is in the non-discharge position, the inhaler 2 is in a non-discharge configuration and when container 4 is in the discharge position, the inhaler 2 is in a discharge configuration (described further below). Figures 7A to 7C sequentially show the operation of a discharge mechanism of the inhaler 2, in the form of a metering valve 7, when the container 4 is moved from the non-discharge position (shown in Figure 7A) , to an intermediate position (shown in Figure 7B), to the discharge position (shown in Figure 7C). Referring to Figures 7A to 7C, the metering valve 7 comprises a valve stem 47. The valve stem 47 is an elongate tubular stem that extends along a longitudinal axis D that is substantially co-axial with said axes A, C. The valve stem 47 has an upper part 47a that is solid and provided, on one side of its exterior surface, with a valve stem groove 51. The valve stem 57 also has a lower part 47b that is hollow and defines an interior passage 53 that is closed at an upper end 53a and extends to an open lower end 53b of the valve stem 57. A valve stem aperture 52 extends from the exterior surface of the lower part 47b into the interior passage 53. The metering valve 7 further comprises an actuator seating 48 with a chamber 42 provided therein that forms an expansion chamber 42. The open lower end 53b of the interior passage 53 is fluidly connected to an open upper end of the expansion chamber 42 and the expansion chamber 42 is fluidly connected to an actuator nozzle 43. The nozzle 43 is provided within the mouthpiece 8 and medicament passing through the nozzle 43 is sprayed out of the nozzle into the mouthpiece 8, and out of the mouthpiece 8 for inhalation by a user. The metering valve 7 further comprises a metering chamber 41 that is fixed to the container 4, to translate with the container 4, as the container 4 moves between its non-discharge position its discharge position. The metering chamber 41 is slidably mounted on the valve stem 47 such that the metering chamber 41 and the valve stem 47 are slid relative to each other, when the container 4 is actuated form the non-discharge position to the discharge position (and vice-versa) . When the container 4 is in the non-discharge position (shown in Figure 7A), the metering chamber 41 is positioned relative to the valve stem 47 such that the valve stem groove 51 fluidly connects the interior of the container 4 to the metering chamber 41. Accordingly, in this position, the medicament containing formulation (liquid phase) 45 is forced, by the gas phase of the formulation (46) above it, into the metering chamber 41, until the metering chamber 41 is full. When the container 4 reaches an intermediate position (shown in Figure 7B) , between the non-discharge position and the discharge position, the metering chamber 41 is positioned relative to the valve stem 47 such that the valve stem groove 51 does not fluidly connect the interior of the container 4 to the metering chamber 41. Furthermore, in this position, the valve stem aperture 52 does not fluidly connect the metering chamber 41 to the expansion chamber 42. Accordingly the metering chamber 41 is closed. When the container 4 reaches the discharge position (shown in Figure 7C) , the metering chamber 41 is positioned relative to the valve stem 47 such that the valve stem aperture 52 fluidly connects the metering chamber 41 to the interior passage 53 and thereby to the expansion chamber 42 and nozzle 43. Accordingly, in this position, a metered dose of the medicament 45, 46 is discharged, under pressure from the metering chamber 41, into the expansion chamber 42 and out of the expansion nozzle 43, whereby it vaporises and passes through and out of the mouthpiece 8, following which it is inhaled by the user. In other designs, some valves are surrounded by a retaining cup that contains the next few doses of drug. The medicament 5 sprays out of the mouthpiece 8 as shown in Figure 6B, and into the mouth of a user that the mouthpiece 8 is located in and inhaled by the user into their lungs. It will be appreciated that such metering valves 7 are known to the skilled person and may take various different forms, and so will not be described in any further detail here. It will also be appreciated that any type of discharging mechanism may be used and the invention is not limited to a use with a metered dose inhaler. Referring to Figures 1 to 3G, the user actuation device 1 comprises an elongate body 10 that extends from a first end 10a to a second end 10b along a longitudinal axis C. The body 10 is a thin walled elongate hollow body, within which is provided an internal volume 11 that is closed at the second end 10b of the body 10 and open at the first end 10a. In this respect, the second end 10b is closed by a wall 13 that has a lower surface 13a that is substantially planar and extends in plane that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis C. The lower surface 13a faces into the inner volume 11. The lower surface 13a forms an inhaler actuation part 13a of the user actuation device 1 (as described below). The internal volume 11 is for receiving the main section 3a housing 3 of the inhaler 2, as well as the second end 4b of the container 4 that protrudes from the second end 32 of the housing 3, when the container 4 is in the non-discharge position. The 5 internal volume 11 extends along the longitudinal axis C. The user actuation device 1 further comprises a bite engagement part 12 for being bitten against by a user of the inhaler 2 (described below). The bite engagement part 12 comprises a generally planar platform 12a that protrudes 10 outwardly from the first end 10a in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis C. The bite engagement part 12 has an upper surface 12' and a lower surface 12''. The bite engagement part 12 further comprises a slight lip 12b at the outward end of the platform 12a, that extends 15 substantially perpendicular to the platform 12a. The portion 10c of the body 10 that connects the bite engagement part 12 and the inhaler actuation part 13a is a mounting part 10c for slidably mounting the inhaler actuation part 13a to the inhaler housing 3. In this respect, the mounting 20 part 10c comprises an inner surface 10c' that circumscribes the longitudinal axis C and is for circumferentially enclosing and slidably mounting against the outer surface 3' of the main section (3a) of the inhaler housing (3). The mounting part 10c, bite engagement part 12 and inhaler 25 actuation part 13a are each formed (at least in part) by the body 10. The body 10 is formed from a single piece of material. This provides for ease and cost-effective manufacture. The bite engagement part 12 is translationally and rotationally fixed relative to the mounting part 10c. 30 The inhaler actuation part 13a is translationally and rotationally fixed relative to the mounting part 10c. Referring to Figures 6A and 9, the user actuation device 1 is installed on the inhaler 2 by receiving the housing 3 of the inhaler 2 (with the container 4 mounted in the housing 3 in the non-discharge position) through the open first end 10a of the body 10 into the internal volume 11 of the body 10 (step 401), until the upper end 4b of the container abuts against the lower surface 13a of the wall 13. In this position, the bite engagement part 12 is aligned with and located spaced from and above the upper surface 8'' of the inhaler mouthpiece 8 (step 402) such that a user can bite with their upper teeth against the upper surface 12' of the bite engagement part 12 and with their lower teeth against the lower surface 8'of the mouthpiece 8 (as shown in Figure 2), whilst the mouthpiece 8 and bite engagement part 12 are in the user's mouth, to bite the bite engagement part 12 and mouthpiece 8 towards each other, in an axial direction E (see Figure 6A) that is substantially parallel to said axes A, C, D, in order to operate the user actuation device 1, as described below. The bite engagement part 12 is positioned on the same side of the inhaler as the mouthpiece 8, i.e. on the front side of the inhaler 2. When the container 4 is in the non-discharge position, the second end 4b of the container 4 protrudes from the second end 32 of the housing 3, with the second end 4b of the container 4 abutting against the lower surface 13a of the wall 13 of the actuation device 1. In this position, the bite engagement part 12 is spaced above the upper surface of the mouthpiece 8 by a first distance DI (see Figure 6A). In this position, the inhaler 2 is in the non-discharge configuration, as described above. The mounting part 10c is connected to the inhaler actuation part 13a and is slidably mounted to the housing 3 such that, when the user bites the bite engagement part 12 and mouthpiece 8 towards each other, the mounting part 10c slides relative to the housing 3, thereby causing translational movement of the inhaler actuation part 13a relative to the housing 3, with the inhaler actuation part 13a exerting a force on the container 4, via contact with the second end 4b of the container 4, to move the container 4 relative to the housing 3 from the non-discharge position to the discharge position. In this respect, the inhaler actuation part 13a is connected to the bite engagement part 12, via the mounting part 10c, such that the inhaler actuation part 13a is substantially translationally fixed relative to the bite engagement part 12. In this respect, in order to actuate the inhaler 2 from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration, using the user actuation device 1, to discharge the medicament into a user's mouth, the user receives the bite engagement part 12 and the mouthpiece 8 in their mouth and bites with their upper teeth against the upper surface 12' of the bite engagement part 12 and with their lower teeth against the lower surface 8'of the mouthpiece 8 (as shown in Figure 2), whilst the mouthpiece 8 and bite engagement part 12 are in the user's mouth, to bite the bite engagement part 12 and mouthpiece 8 towards each other, in an axial direction E (see Figure 6A) that is substantially parallel to said axes A, C, D. This moves the bite engagement part 12 relative to the mouthpiece 8 such that the bite engagement part 12 is moved towards the mouthpiece 8. In this position, the bite engagement part 12 is spaced above the upper surface of the mouthpiece 8 by a second distance D2, that is less than the first distance DI (see Figure 6B). The movement of the bite engagement part 12 towards the mouthpiece 8 causes the mounting part 10c to slide along the housing 3 towards the mouthpiece 8, which consequently causes the wall 13 to slide along the housing 3 towards the mouthpiece 8 . The lower surface 13a of the wall 13 pushes the upper end 4b of the container 4 downwardly, from its non-discharge position to its discharge position, thereby causing a metered dose of the medicament 45, 4 6 to spray out of the mouthpiece 8 into the user's mouth, as described above, which is then inhaled into their lungs. When the user removes the bite force, the pressure of the medicament 45, 46 in the container 4 pushes the container 4 back up to its non-discharge position, which moves the user actuation device 1 back to the position shown in Figure 6A. Referring to Figures 4A and 4B there is shown a user actuation device 101, for use with an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, according to a third embodiment of the invention. The user actuation device 101 of the third embodiment has corresponding features to that of the first and second embodiments, except for the differences described below. Corresponding features are given corresponding reference numerals, but incremented by 100. The user actuation device 101 of the third embodiment is the same as that of the first and second embodiments except in that the body 110 has a different, more stylised shape to the body 10 of the first embodiment. In this respect, a lower portion of the body 110 only extends partially around the housing 3. The mounting part 110c comprises opposed inner surfaces 110c' for slidably mounting against a respective outer surface 3' of the housing of the inhaler 2. In each of the described embodiments, the user actuation device 1, 101, 201, allows an inhaler to be operated and actuated using a bite-force of a user, instead of by hand. This may allow for an inhaler to be used by a person that lacks sufficient strength or dexterity in their hands, for example a person suffering from arthritis. Referring to Figure 5 there is shown a user actuation device 201 for an inhaler for discharging an inhalable medicament, according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. The user actuation device 201 of the fourth embodiment has corresponding features to that of the first embodiment, except for the differences described below. Corresponding features are given corresponding reference numerals, but incremented by 200 (relative to the first embodiment). The user actuation device 201 of the fourth embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment except in that the actuation device 201 comprises a sensor 250 for detecting when the user actuation device 201 is used to actuate the inhaler 2 from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration. The sensor 250 is mounted on the bite engagement part 12. In the currently described embodiment the sensor 250 is a contact sensor, in this case a capacitive sensor. However, it will be appreciated that any type of sensor may be used. The sensor 250 detects the contact of the user's teeth on the bite-engagement part 212, to detect when the user actuation device 201 actuates the inhaler 2 from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration. However, it will be appreciated than any suitable sensor arrangement may be used to detect when the user actuation device 201 actuates the inhaler 2 from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration and is not limited to detection of contact of the user's teeth on the bite-engagement part 212. For example, a sensor could be provided on the inhaler actuation part 213 that detects when a force is applied by the inhaler actuation part 213 to the second end 4b of the container 4. The user actuation device 201 also comprises a wireless transmitter 251 (see Figure 8) . In the currently described embodiment the wireless transmitter 251 is a bluetooth transmitter. However, it will be appreciated that any suitable type of transmitter may be used. For example the transmitter may transmit any type of signal, for example an electromagnetic signal, for example a radio wave. The signal may be wireless or wired (e.g. if the user actuation device is connected by a wire to the client device 301). The sensor 250 is operatively connected to the transmitter 251, via a computer processing unit (CPU) 252 such that when the sensor 250 detects that the user actuation device 201 actuates the inhaler 2 from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration, the transmitter 251 transmits a signal (Sa) representative of said actuation, i.e. that signals said actuation. The user actuation device 201 also comprises a battery 253 that is electrically connected to the sensor 250, CPU 252 and transmitter 251 so as to provide electrical power to them. The CPU 252, battery 253 and transmitter 251 are housed in the bite engagement part 212. However, it will be appreciated that they may be housed in other locations on the actuation device 201 (e.g. in the top wall 213). Figure 8 is a schematic view of a system 300 comprising the user actuation device 201 (shown in Figure 5) and a client device 301. In the currently described embodiment the client device 301 is a mobile phone. However, it will be appreciated that any suitable type of client device may be used, including a tablet, computer (e.g. laptop or desktop computer), etc. The client device 301 comprises a wireless receiver 302 configured to receive the signal (Sa) from the transmitter 251 of the user actuation device 201. In the currently described embodiment the receiver 302 is a bluetooth receiver. However, it will be appreciated that any suitable type of receiver may be used. For example the receiver may receive any type of signal, for example an electromagnetic signal, for example a radio wave. The signal may be wireless or wired (e.g. if the user actuation device is connected by a wire to the client device 301) . The client device 301 also comprises a data processing device 310. The data processing device 310 is operatively connected to the receiver 302 to receive said signals (Sa) . The data processing device 310 comprises a central processing unit (CPU) 303 and a memory 304. The CPU 303 is operatively connected to the memory 304 such that the memory 304 stores data derived by the data processing device 310. The data processing device 310 derives data from said signal (Sa) and from data stored in the memory 304. Any suitable type of CPU may be used. Any suitable type of computer memory may be used. The client device 301 also comprises a display 305, which displays a graphical user interface (GUI). The display may be of any suitable type, including a liquid crystal display (LCD), LED, OLED, retina display, etc. The client device 301 also comprises a battery 306 that is electrically connected to the wireless receiver 302, CPU 303, memory 304 and display 305, so as to provide electrical power to them. Each time the user actuation device 201 actuates the inhaler 2, a said signal (Sa) is transmitted from the transmitter 251 of the user actuation device 201 to the receiver 302 of the client device 301. When the receiver 302 receives the signal (Sa) , the signal (Sa) is passed to the data processing device 303, which processes the signal, and passes data derived from the signal (Sa) into the memory 304 where it is stored in the memory 304. The data processing device 310 processes the data stored in the memory 304, to derive data relating to the usage of the inhaler 2 (step 501 - Figure 10) . The data processing device 310 is operatively connected to the display 305 such that it then operates the display 305 to display the derived data on the display 305 (step 502 - Figure 10) . The data processing device 310 comprises a computer program, stored on the memory 304, configured to be executed by the CPU 303 to carry out the above method steps of deriving said data and operating the display 305. In the currently described embodiment the computer program is an application (an 'app') on the client device (a smart phone). However, it will be appreciated that any suitable type of computer program may be used. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that suitably configured hardware may be used in place of a computer program. In this respect, the computer program comprises instructions which, when the program is executed, causes the computer to derive data in dependence on the received signal and to display the derived data on the display 305. The derived data may, for example, comprise times, timing and / or frequency of actuation of the the user actuation device 1. The derived data the number of inhaler 2, by may comprise information that relates to whether specified dosage regimes have been complied with, etc. The data may help remind patients of when to take their medicament and will record the data for their own benefit and / or for carers or medical professionals benefit to know the dose has been successfully taken at the right time. It also allows them to track their condition and adjust their routine to when the medicament is needed most. It will be appreciated that numerous modifications to the above described design may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, in the described embodiments the inhaler is a metered-dose inhaler and the user actuation device is configured to actuated a metered-dose inhaler. Alternatively, the user actuation device may be configured to actuate different types of inhaler. For example, in other types of inhaler the medicament may not be pressurised in a container. In this case, when the inhaler is actuated, by the user actuation device, to the discharge configuration, the medicament may be dischargeable from the container by a user sucking the medicament out of the container, instead of it being discharged under pressure. Similarly, in the described embodiments the medicament is aerosol based. Where the medicament is not pressurised, the medicament may, for example be a dry powder. However, the user actuation device is primarily intended for use with an inhaler that has a pressurised aerosol based medicament and uses a metering valve, since the primary advantages of ease of use, provided by the user actuation device, are particularly provided with such an inhaler. In the described embodiments, the medicament is for treating a respiratory disease. The medicament may be to diagnose, cure, treat and / or prevent any type of disease, but is primarily for use in treating a respiratory disease, for example asthma and / or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Where in the foregoing description, integers or elements are mentioned which have known, obvious or foreseeable 5 equivalents, then such equivalents are herein incorporated as if individually set forth. Reference should be made to the claims for determining the true scope of the present invention, which should be construed so as to encompass any such equivalents. It will also be appreciated by the reader that integers or features 10 of the invention that are described as preferable, advantageous, convenient or the like are optional and do not limit the scope of the independent claims.

Claims

l.A user actuation device for use with an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament,the inhaler being configurable between a non-discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through a mouthpiece of the inhaler, and a discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece of the inhaler;wherein the user actuation device comprises:a bite engagement part for being positioned adjacent to and spaced from said mouthpiece such that, in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting against the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other;andan inhaler actuation part coupled to the bite engagement part and for engaging with the inhaler such that when a user bites the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part actuates the inhaler, using the applied bite-force, from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration.

2. A user actuation device according to claim 1 wherein:the user actuation device is for use with an inhaler comprising a mouthpiece, a housing, a container and a discharge mechanism, the container containing a medicament and being slidably mounted in the housing for slidable movement relative to the housing such that the container is movable relative to the housing, from a non-discharge position to a discharge position;wherein the discharge mechanism is configured suchthat when the container is in the non-discharge position, the medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the user;and when the container is in the discharge position, at least part of the medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the user ;wherein the user actuation device comprises a mounting part for mounting the inhaler actuation part to said housing such that, when the user bites the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part is moved relative to the housing and exerts a force on the container, via contact with the container, to move the container relative to the housing from the non-discharge position to the discharge position.

3. A user actuation device according to claim 2 wherein the mounting part is for being slidably mounted to said housing such that, when the user bites the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, the mounting part slides relative to the housing, thereby causing translational movement of the inhaler actuation part relative to the housing, with the inhaler actuation part exerting a force on the container, via contact with the container, to move the container relative to the housing from the non-discharge position to the discharge position.

4. A user actuation device according to claim 3, wherein the mounting part comprises at least one inner surface for slidably mounting against an outer surface of the housing of a said inhaler.

5. A user actuation device according to claim 4, wherein the mounting part comprises first and second opposed inner surfaces for slidably mounting against a respective outer surface of the housing of a said inhaler.

6. A user actuation device according to any of claims 2 to 5 wherein the mounting part is for mounting the inhaleractuation part to said inhaler housing such that, when the container is in the non-discharge position, the bite engagement part is positioned above and spaced from said mouthpiece such that, in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting against an upper surface of the bite engagement part and a lower surface of the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other.

7. A user actuation device according to any of claims 2 to 6, wherein the mounting part at least partially extends around an internal volume for receiving at least part of the housing of a said inhaler.

8. A user actuation device according to claim 7, wherein the mounting part has a first end that is open, for receiving the housing of a said inhaler through, into said internal volume, and a second end that is at least partially closed by the inhaler actuation part.

9. A user actuation device according to claim 8, wherein the inhaler actuation part substantially entirely closes the second end of the mounting part.

10. A user actuation device according to any of claims 7to 9, wherein the internal volume extends along a longitudinal axis and the bite engagement part comprises a surface that extends outwardly from the mounting part in a general direction that is inclined relative to said longitudinal axis.

11. A user actuation device according to any of claims 2 to 10 wherein,the user actuation device extends from a first end to a second end;the first end comprises the bite engagement part and the second end comprises the inhaler actuation part;and wherein the bite engagement part is connected to the inhaler actuation part by the mounting part.

12. A user actuation device according to claim 11, wherein the user actuation device comprises a body and wherein the mounting part, bite engagement part and inhaler actuation part each comprise a part of said body and wherein the body is formed from a single piece of material.

13. A user actuation device according to any preceding claim wherein the user actuation device comprises:a sensor for detecting when the user actuation device is used to actuate the inhaler from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration, anda transmitter;wherein the sensor is operatively connected to the transmitter such that when then sensor detects when the user actuation device is used to actuate the inhaler from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration, the transmitter transmits a signal representative of said actuation.

14. An inhaler and user actuation device assembly comprising:an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, the inhaler being configurable between a non-discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through a mouthpiece of the inhaler, and a discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece of the inhaler;and a user actuation device according to any preceding claim;wherein the bite engagement part of the user actuation device is positioned adjacent to and spaced from the mouthpiece of the inhaler such that, in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting against the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other;wherein the inhaler actuation part is arranged to engage with the inhaler such that when a user bites the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part actuates the inhaler, using the applied bite-force, from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration.

15. An inhaler and user actuation device assemblyaccording to claim 14, wherein:the inhaler comprises a mouthpiece, a housing, a container and a discharge mechanism, the container containing a medicament and being slidably mounted in the housing for slidable movement relative to the housing such that the container is movable relative to the housing, from a non-discharge position to a discharge position;wherein the discharge mechanism is configured such that when the container is in the non-discharge position, the medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the user;and when the container is in the discharge position, at least part of the medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the user;wherein the user actuation device comprises a mounting part that mounts the inhaler actuation part to said housing such that, when the user bites the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part is moved relative to the housing and exerts a force on the container, via contact with the container, to move the container relative to the housing from the non-discharge position to the discharge position.

16. An assembly according to claim 15 wherein the mounting part is slidably mounted to said housing such that, when the user bites the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, the mounting part slides relative to the housing, thereby causing translational movement of theinhaler actuation part relative to the housing, with the inhaler actuation part exerting a force on the container, via contact with the container, to move the container relative to the housing from the non-discharge position to the discharge position.

17. An assembly according to either of claims 15 or 16 wherein the container contains a medicament that is pressurised such that when the container is in the discharge position, at least part of the medicament is discharged from the inhaler, under pressure, out of the mouthpiece.

18. An assembly according to any of claims 15 to 17, wherein the discharge mechanism comprises a metering valve configured such that a specific dose of the medicament is discharged from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by a user, when the container is moved from the non-discharge position to the discharge position.

19. A kit of parts comprising:an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament, the inhaler being configurable between a non-discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through a mouthpiece of the inhaler, and a discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece of the inhaler;and a user actuation device according to any of claims 1 to 13;wherein the bite engagement part of the user actuation device is for being positioned adjacent to and spaced from the mouthpiece of the inhaler such that, in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting against the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other;and wherein the inhaler actuation part is for engagement with the inhaler such that when a user bites thebite engagement part and the mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part actuates the inhaler, using the applied bite-force, from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration.

20. A kit of parts according to claim 19, wherein:the inhaler comprises a mouthpiece, a housing, a container and a discharge mechanism, the container containing a medicament and being slidably mounted in the housing for slidable movement relative to the housing such that the container is movable relative to the housing, from a non-discharge position to a discharge position;wherein the discharge mechanism is configured such that when the container is in the non-discharge position, the medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the user;and when the container is in the discharge position, at least part of the medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece, for inhalation by the user ;wherein the user actuation device comprises a mounting part for mounting the inhaler actuation part to said housing such that, when the user bites the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part is moved relative to the housing and exerts a force on the container, via contact with the container, to move the container relative to the housing from the non-discharge position to the discharge position.

21. A method of installing a user actuation device on an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament:the inhaler being configurable between a non-discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through a mouthpiece of the inhaler, and a discharge configuration in which inhalablemedicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece of the inhaler;wherein the user actuation device comprises:a bite engagement part;andan inhaler actuation part coupled to the bite engagement part;wherein the method comprises:arranging the user actuation device with the inhaler such that:the bite engagement part is positioned adjacent to and spaced from said mouthpiece such that, in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting against the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other, andthe inhaler actuation part is for engaging with the inhaler such that when a user bites the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part actuates the inhaler, using the applied bite-force, from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration.

22. A method of use of an inhaler and actuation device assembly according to any of claims 14 to 18, the method comprising:applying a bite-force, by biting against the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each otherwherein the inhaler actuation part engages with the inhaler such that the inhaler actuation part actuates theinhaler, using the applied bite-force, from the nondischarge configuration to the discharge configuration.

23. A computer implemented method for a client device associated with a user actuation device for use with an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament,the inhaler being configurable between a non-discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through a mouthpiece of the inhaler, and a discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece of the inhaler;wherein the user actuation device comprises:a bite engagement part for being positioned adjacent to and spaced from said mouthpiece such that, in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting against the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other;andan inhaler actuation part coupled to the bite engagement part and for engaging with the inhaler such that when a user bites the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part actuates the inhaler, using the applied bite-force, from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration;wherein the user actuation device comprises:a sensor for detecting when the user actuation device is used to actuate the inhaler from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration, anda transmitter;wherein the sensor is operatively connected to the transmitter such that when then sensor detects when the user actuation device is used to actuate the inhaler from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration, the transmitter transmits a signal representative of said actuation;the method comprising:deriving data in dependence on at least one received said signal,anddisplaying the derived data on a display of the client device .

24. A data processing device comprising means for carrying out the steps of the method of claim 23.

25. A client device comprising a data processing device according to claim 24.

26. A computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method of claim 23.

27. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method of claim 23.

28. A system comprising:a user actuation device for use with an inhaler for providing an inhalable medicament,the inhaler being configurable between a non-discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is not dischargeable from the inhaler, through a mouthpiece of the inhaler, and a discharge configuration in which inhalable medicament is dischargeable from the inhaler, through the mouthpiece of the inhaler;wherein the user actuation device comprises:a bite engagement part for being positioned adjacent to and spaced from said mouthpiece such that, in use, the mouthpiece and the bite engagement part can be received in a user's mouth and the user can apply a bite-force by biting against the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece to bite the bite engagement part and mouthpiece towards each other;andan inhaler actuation part coupled to the bite engagement part and for engaging with the inhaler such that when a user bites the bite engagement part and the mouthpiece towards each other, the inhaler actuation part actuates the inhaler, using the applied bite-force, from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration;wherein the user actuation device comprises:a sensor for detecting when the user actuation device actuates the inhaler from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration, anda transmitter;wherein the sensor is operatively connected to the transmitter such that when then sensor detects when the user actuation device actuates the inhaler from the non-discharge configuration to the discharge configuration, the transmitter transmits a signal representative of said actuation;the system further comprising a client device comprising:a receiver for receiving said signal;a display;a data processing device comprising means for:deriving data in dependence on at least one received said signal, 5anddisplaying the derived data on the display.10

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