Head for dispensing a product, dispensing device comprising such a dispensing head, and method for positioning such a dispensing device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a nasal dispensing head (10) for dispensing a fluid product, the head being provided with two bearing regions (13, 14) that rest on the face of a patient, which regions together determine a dispensing direction (A11) for dispensing the product into a nostril of the patient, and a surface (15) configured to accommodate at least one finger of the user. The two bearing regions (13, 14) are positioned between a distal end (12) of the dispensing head, which is configured to be inserted into the nostril of the patient, and the surface (15). A first bearing region (13), from among the two bearing regions (13, 14), is a raised bearing region configured to be accommodated in the groove of the patient's philtrum.

Description

[0001] PRODUCT DISPENSING HEAD, DISPENSING DEVICE COMPRISING SUCH A DISPENSING HEAD AND METHOD FOR POSITIONING SUCH A DEVICE

[0002] DISTRIBUTION

[0003] The invention relates to a nasal product dispensing head, a product dispensing device comprising a nasal dispensing head, and a method of positioning a product dispensing device.

[0004] The technical field of the invention is that of the distribution of product in a nostril of a patient, more precisely in the nasal cavity located beyond the nasal valve, particularly in the olfactory zone of the nasal cavity, arranged in the upper part of the nasal cavity, in which are present the ramifications of the olfactory nerve connected to the brain via the olfactory bulb.

[0005] Prior art

[0006] Known in the prior art, in particular from document W02018 / 109409A1, is a nasal dispensing device and a separate positioning member in which the dispensing device is attached. The positioning member comprises support zones intended to rest on different parts of the face, such as the forehead, the root of the nose, the upper lip or even the ears of the patient, in order to adjust the correct position of the positioning member relative to the patient's head. Furthermore, the positioning member comprises an area intended to receive the user's fingers to activate the dispensing of product via the nasal dispensing device. Such a positioning member requires support on support zones relatively far from the nose, in particular the forehead or the ears, raising issues of ergonomics, storage or transport.Furthermore, the use of such a positioning member, at the time of activation, requires that the fingers be in contact with the nostrils, between the nostrils and the positioning member, leading to the risk of modifying the position of the dispensing device and thus losing the desired orientation of the dispensing device relative to the patient's head.

[0007] Also known in the state of the art, through document US 11,266,799B2, is a nasal dispensing device including a cone provided with a flat side, facilitating the positioning of the cone against the septum of one or other of the patient's nostrils, and a depth stop, making it possible to obtain a predetermined insertion depth of the cone in the nostril. Such a device does not allow adequate and safe positioning of the device because, even when correctly positioned against the septum, the cone allows orientations of the dispensing device in which the product will not be able to reach the olfactory zone.

[0008] Also known in the state of the art, through document WO2022 / 238604A1, is a tip for dispensing a fluid into a nostril provided with a flange configured to abut against the nostril of a user, without penetrating inside, and provided with a recess in transverse contact with the philtrum or the subnasal groove. When placed in position on the nostril of a user, due to the absence of penetration into the nostril and the plurality of possible positions against the nostril by the user, such a dispensing tip does not make it possible to impose a dispensing direction towards a target area.

[0009] Also known in the state of the art, through document FR2764807A1, is a fluid product device provided with a tip comprising a support extending transversely to a dispensing direction and adapted to rest on the user's upper lip to define an angle. With only this single support point, the device allows several possible positions on the upper lip, thus making positioning difficult to reach a target area, such as the olfactory area.

[0010] Also known in the state of the art, through document US2018 / 185593A1, is a nasal administration device configured to deliver a composition to the lumen of the Eustachian tube and provided with two positioning tabs which are respectively positioned on two relatively distant areas of a patient's face, namely on the root of the nose and on the upper lip. With such a construction, the device in question is not compact and the handling of the latter can be random, the user not knowing clearly in which area the gripping of said device must be done.

[0011] Presentation of the invention

[0012] The aim of the invention is to provide a compact nasal dispensing head allowing optimal positioning of the nasal dispensing head to reach a targeted area in the nasal cavity, for example the olfactory area.

[0013] To this end, the invention relates to a nasal fluid product dispensing head provided with two support zones on the face of a patient, which jointly impose a direction of dispensing of the product into a nostril of the patient, and a surface configured to receive at least one finger of the user, the two support zones being positioned between a distal end of the dispensing head configured to be introduced into the nostril of the patient and the surface. According to the invention, a first support zone, among the support zones, is a relief configured to be housed in the groove of the patient's philtrum.

[0014] The philtrum is the median, vertical groove on the cutaneous surface of an individual's upper lip.

[0015] Thus, when the user places the two support zones on the patient's face, including the first support zone in the philtrum groove, the distribution direction is optimal to reach the targeted area.

[0016] In addition, the position of the two support zones, between the distal end and the surface configured to receive a user's finger, allows the user to place at least one of his fingers on this surface without disturbing the position of the support zones on the patient's face. The risk of losing the optimal orientation of the dispensing device at the time of activation by the user's finger(s) is thereby reduced.

[0017] The user can be the patient or another person, for example a healthcare professional.

[0018] A patient is defined as the individual on whom the support areas of the dispensing head are pressed and one of whose nostrils receives the distal end of the dispensing head.

[0019] A user is defined as the individual who takes control of the dispensing device equipped with the dispensing head, positions it and activates the device to trigger dispensing.

[0020] In most cases, the user is also the patient.

[0021] It may happen that the user is a different person from the patient, for example in the case where the patient requires assistance.

[0022] The term "distal" refers to what is on the side of the dispensing orifice and the term "proximal" refers to the opposite side.

[0023] Advantageously, your dispensing head is configured to be connected to a device provided with at least one reservoir containing one or more doses of product to be dispensed, preferably a pharmaceutical product, to form a dispensing device.

[0024] Preferably, the dispensing head comprises a sealed connection member configured to cooperate in a sealed manner with the device.

[0025] Alternatively, the sealed connection member may be carried by the device or partly by the dispensing head and partly by the device.

[0026] The watertight connection can be achieved by clamping a cylinder in a bore, by the presence of a circumferential sealing ring, by the addition of an O-ring in a circumferential groove of a cylinder or bore, by clamping two flat surfaces, by the addition of a flat gasket between two flat surfaces, or a combination of these solutions.

[0027] The product to be dispensed may be a liquid, such as a solution or suspension, or a solid, for example in powder form.

[0028] The apparatus, to which the dispensing head is connected, may comprise, for example, a pump, a valve, a piston sliding in the reservoir or a system delivering a gas and the product to be dispensed, or any other liquid or powder dispensing mechanism known to those skilled in the art.

[0029] A pump is a device capable of sucking and discharging a fluid.

[0030] A valve is a device capable of selectively retaining and releasing a pressurized fluid. The valve may be metering if, during the action releasing the fluid, the quantity of fluid released is independent of the duration of valve actuation, or continuous if the quantity of fluid released depends on the duration of valve actuation.

[0031] The product can be dispensed via the dispensing head in the form of a spray, jet, or aerosol. A product presented in this form is easier to reach the target area, for example, the olfactory zone.

[0032] The term "aerosol" refers to the dispersion of particles of a liquid, solution, or solid in a gas.

[0033] The term "spray" refers to a type of aerosol in which the dispersion is approximately in the form of a cone of revolution around an axis. Typically, the cone of a spray has an opening angle between 0 degrees and 120 degrees.

[0034] The expression "between... and..." must be understood as including the limits of the interval thus defined.

[0035] The term "jet" refers to a spray in which the dispersion cone has a narrow opening angle, preferably between 0 degrees and 15 degrees. The particles, in this case, may be fused or joined together in a continuous stream of material.

[0036] Advantageously, the product is distributed in the form of a jet, approximately conical, the dispersion cone of which has an opening angle of between 0 degrees and 15 degrees, preferably between 0 degrees and 10 degrees, more preferably between 0 degrees and 5 degrees. Thus, a greater quantity of product may be able to reach the olfactory zone.

[0037] The product is distributed according to the distribution direction. In the case of product distribution in the form of a spray or jet, the distribution direction coincides with the axis of the spray or jet cone.

[0038] Preferably, the product is dispensed in a single direction. Preferably, the dispensing head comprises at least one dispensing orifice positioned near the distal end of the dispensing head and through which the product is dispensed towards the targeted area. Preferably, the dispensing orifice is positioned on the distal end of the dispensing head, preferably on a distal surface of the distal end, said distal surface possibly comprising at least one recess. Advantageously, the dispensing orifice is positioned in the recess of the distal surface of the dispensing head.

[0039] Advantageously, the dispensing head comprises a single dispensing orifice defining an orifice axis. Preferably, the orifice is cylindrical or frustoconical in shape of revolution around the orifice axis.

[0040] Advantageously, the dispensing head comprises a distal portion of generally frustoconical shape defining an axis of the distal portion, and a proximal portion. Preferably, the orifice is positioned on the axis of the distal portion of the dispensing head. Such a distal portion of generally frustoconical shape facilitates the introduction of the distal end into the patient's nostril.

[0041] Advantageously, the orifice axis coincides with the distribution direction.

[0042] Preferably, the proximal portion is generally cylindrical in shape.

[0043] Advantageously, the proximal portion of the dispensing head is connected to the device.

[0044] Advantageously, the proximal portion is hollow and configured to receive the device, preferably configured to surround part of the reservoir. Thus, the assembly is more compact and handling is easier for the user.

[0045] Advantageously, the surface configured to receive at least one finger of the user is carried by the proximal portion. It may be carried by at least one radial protrusion, preferably two radial protrusions distributed on either side of the proximal portion of the dispensing head. The surface may comprise reliefs, for example rectilinear ribs, configured to improve the grip of the user's finger on said surface.

[0046] The dispensing head comprises two support zones configured to rest on two areas of the face, one of which is the philtrum groove. This configuration is intended to give the dispensing head an orientation relative to the patient's head, which orientation must allow the product to be distributed preferentially in the target area of ​​the nasal cavities.

[0047] The two support zones are positioned between the distal end of the dispensing head and the surface configured to receive at least one finger of the user, so that the user can position his finger on the surface without hindering the support of the support zones on the face.

[0048] Preferably, the ends of each of the support zones which are furthest from the distal end are closer to this same distal end than the surface configured to receive at least one finger of the user.

[0049] Preferably, the ends of each of the bearing zones which are furthest from the distal end are closer to this same distal end than the end of the surface closest to said distal end.

[0050] Advantageously, the relief of the patient's first support area is a rib. A rib is understood to be a long, linear projection or a ridge. A relief in the form of a rib has a shape complementary to that of the patient's philtrum groove, facilitating the positioning of the relief in the latter.

[0051] Preferably, the rib extends in a direction allowing optimal orientation of the distribution direction relative to the user's nostril. This has the effect of increasing the chances of reaching the target area, for example the olfactory area.

[0052] The rib comprises a proximal end and a distal end, the length of the rib being defined by the distance between the proximal end and the distal end.

[0053] Preferably, the rib has a length of between 10 millimeters and 30 millimeters, preferably between 15 millimeters and 25 millimeters.

[0054] Advantageously, the distance between the distal end of the rib and the orthogonal projection of said distal end on the orifice axis is smaller than the distance between the proximal end of the rib and the orthogonal projection of said proximal end on the orifice axis. Such an arrangement makes it possible to target an area close to the midsagittal plane of the patient's head, for example the olfactory area.

[0055] The midsagittal plane of a patient's head is the vertical plane, oriented front to back, separating the patient's head into right and left halves.

[0056] For the two alternatives for producing the rib described above, the distance between the distal end of the rib and the orthogonal projection of said distal end on the orifice axis is preferably between 8 millimeters and 16 millimeters.

[0057] Either of the two alternatives for producing the rib described above may be combined with any of the features described in this description.

[0058] Advantageously, when the dispensing orifice is positioned on the axis of the distal portion of the dispensing head, the distance between this axis and the distal end of the rib, measured in the plane perpendicular to the axis, is between 8 millimeters and 16 millimeters. In a preferred embodiment, the second bearing zone comprises a substantially concave surface configured to bear on the upper lip, next to the patient's philtrum.

[0059] By "substantially concave" we mean that the concave surface may have irregularities.

[0060] The second, significantly concave support zone allows it to better fit the shape of the upper lip and position the dispensing head in relation to the patient's nostril.

[0061] A "substantially concave surface" means a surface curved towards the inside of the dispensing head. This concave surface may be a cylindrical or spherical surface, or several adjacent flat or curved surfaces falling within a substantially concave surface.

[0062] Alternatively, the second support zone comprises a rib. In this case, preferably, the rib forming the second support zone is a rib symmetrical to the rib forming the first support zone.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the second support zone rests essentially on the so-called white lip part of the upper lip.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the first support zone and the second support zone are adjacent. The dispensing head is thus compact, that is to say it has a small footprint, while allowing optimal positioning on the patient's face to obtain a dispensing direction well oriented towards the targeted area.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment, the dispensing head includes a third abutment area configured to abut against the columella or the alar rim of the patient's nostril, or both. In this way, the depth of insertion of the distal end of the dispensing head into the patient's nostril is controlled, improving positioning as well as treatment comfort for the patient.

[0066] Preferably, the third bearing surface is a flat surface extending perpendicularly to the axis of the distal portion.

[0067] Preferably, a distance between the distal end of the dispensing head and the third support zone is between 12 millimeters and 24 millimeters, more preferably between 16 millimeters and 20 millimeters. Thus, the dispensing head is compatible with a large number of different nose conformations and promotes the distribution of the product to the targeted area.

[0068] Advantageously, the third support zone is located between the distal end and the first and second support zones. Advantageously, the third support zone may be included on at least one fin, preferably two fins extending on either side of the distal portion of the dispensing head.

[0069] In a preferred embodiment, the dispensing head comprises a single orifice defining an orifice axis and is symmetrical about at least one plane including the orifice axis.

[0070] The dispensing head is symmetrical with respect to at least one plane including the orifice axis, called the plane of symmetry. Preferably, the dispensing head comprises two first support zones arranged symmetrically with respect to the plane of symmetry. Even more preferably, the dispensing head comprises two second support zones arranged symmetrically with respect to the plane of symmetry. Handling of the dispensing head is simplified because such symmetry prevents the user from making a mistake in the direction when positioning the dispensing head. The symmetry also allows the user to be able to dispense the product into one nostril and then into the other without having to turn the device over or change its grip.

[0071] Advantageously, the direction of the rib defines with the plane of symmetry a first orientation angle of between 5 degrees and 30 degrees, preferably between 7 degrees and 15 degrees, and with a plane perpendicular to the plane of symmetry and also including the orifice axis a second orientation angle of between 10 degrees and 50 degrees, preferably between 20 degrees and 40 degrees, more preferably between 25 degrees and 35 degrees. This configuration allows the dispensing head to impose a dispensing direction preferentially targeting a target area, preferably the olfactory area.

[0072] Advantageously, the distance between the distal end of the rib and the orthogonal projection of said distal end on the plane of symmetry is smaller than the distance between the proximal end of the rib and the orthogonal projection of said proximal end on the plane of symmetry.

[0073] Alternatively, the distance between the distal end of the rib and the orthogonal projection of said distal end on the plane of symmetry is greater than the distance between the proximal end of the rib and the orthogonal projection of said proximal end on the plane of symmetry.

[0074] Advantageously, the distal end of the dispensing head has the shape of a truncated cone, the distal end of which comprises a flattened portion made on the external lateral surface of the truncated cone, and adjacent to the distal surface of the dispensing head comprising the dispensing orifice. Such a flattened portion makes it possible to limit contact with the inside of the nostril, more precisely to limit contact with the nasal septum, and thus not to constrain the patient's nose when the dispensing head is in place. Preferably, the flattened portion extends along a plane defining an angle of between 5 degrees and 15 degrees relative to the plane of symmetry.

[0075] Such positioning relative to the plane of symmetry ensures that the flat part is opposite the patient's nasal septum.

[0076] Advantageously, the distal end comprises two flats distributed on either side of the distal end symmetrically to the plane of symmetry.

[0077] Advantageously, the first support zone and second support zone are arranged on an adjustable portion movable in translation and rotation relative to the distal end of the dispensing head, making it possible to vary the direction of dispensing in the patient's nostril. Thus it is possible to adapt the direction of dispensing according to the patient and better target the targeted area in the patient's nasal cavity.

[0078] The adjustable portion may include an adjustment member for changing the position or orientation, or both, of the adjustable portion relative to the distal end of the dispensing head. This adjustment member may, for example, include mechanisms including a worm screw cooperating with a rack, a pressure screw, ratchets, or any system known to those skilled in the art for changing a position or orientation, or both.

[0079] Advantageously, the dispensing head comprises at least one orientation indicator configured to help the user orient the dispensing head according to the dispensing direction.

[0080] Using this indicator, the user can orient the dispensing head then place the relief constituting the first support zone in the groove of the patient's philtrum and finally press the second support zone on the patient's face.

[0081] Advantageously, the orientation indicator is a mark defining an axis.

[0082] Preferably, the orientation indicator is a mark defining a direction, such as an arrow which can be printed or engraved or even molded with the dispensing head. Such an orientation indicator makes it easier to read the desired orientation.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment, the dispensing head comprises an insert, the first bearing area and the second bearing area being positioned on the insert.

[0084] In this way, several inserts of different shapes and sizes can be proposed, in particular according to the anatomy of the patient. For example, varied rib lengths and varied rib angles, to address varied shapes and sizes of philtrums, white lips and nostrils. In this embodiment, the dispensing head comprises a support on which the insert is attached. Preferably, the support comprises the surface configured to receive at least one finger of the user.

[0085] Preferably, the added element is secured to the support in a removable manner.

[0086] The term "removable" refers to the ability to detach the attached element from the support or replace the attached element on the support by a user action without damage. For example, the attached element can be detached from the support by a mechanical action, for example pulling towards the distal end.

[0087] Advantageously, the added element can be custom-made for the patient. It can be sized from measurements taken on the patient using a technique known to those skilled in the art or from a molding of the area of ​​the face between the edge of the nostrils and the upper lip so that the two support areas best fit the patient's face. Preferably, such an added element is obtained by an additive manufacturing method, for example such as stereolithography or such as fused deposition printing.

[0088] Advantageously, the added element comprises a positioning member imposing the position of the added element relative to the support.

[0089] Advantageously, the attached element comprises a positioning member fixing the position of the attached element relative to the support. Thus, once attached, the attached element has a fixed position relative to the support.

[0090] Advantageously, the support comprises a complementary positioning member cooperating with the positioning member of the added element to fix the position of the added member relative to the support.

[0091] Alternatively, the positioning member is configured to prevent the added element from rotating relative to the axis of the distal portion of the dispensing head.

[0092] Advantageously, the positioning member comprises at least one rib provided on the added element and cooperating with a groove provided on the support.

[0093] Advantageously, the positioning member comprises a shoulder on the added element configured to cooperate with a complementary shoulder of the support so as to provide an axial stop of the added element relative to the support, in other words so as to block an axial translation of the added element relative to the support. In this way, the axial stop produced is capable of withstanding significant forces.

[0094] Advantageously, the complementary positioning member of the support comprises a groove.

[0095] Thus, the rib provided on the insert cooperates with the groove provided on the support. The rib and the groove may be axial or vertical. Axial means a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the dispensing head and vertical means a direction from the distal end to the proximal end.

[0096] Advantageously, the ribs and grooves are each two or more in number, preferably two. Such a number of ribs and grooves limits the risk of unwanted movements, particularly if the dispensing head is subjected to stress, for example during transport.

[0097] Advantageously, the proximal end of the rib forms with the proximal end of the groove an axial stop of the added element relative to the support. In this way, the positioning member and the complementary positioning member formed respectively by the rib and the groove are arranged in a compact manner.

[0098] In an alternative embodiment, the positioning member comprises at least one flat portion configured to cooperate with a complementary flat portion carried by the support.

[0099] In a preferred embodiment, the positioning member comprises a cavity provided with at least one flat and the support comprises a projection forming a complementary flat cooperating with the flat of the positioning member to prevent the attached element from rotating relative to the support.

[0100] Alternatively, the support comprises at least two radial ribs, the ends of which cooperate with the flat of the positioning member to prevent the added element from rotating relative to the support.

[0101] Alternatively, the support comprises at least one rib whose side cooperates with the flat of the positioning member to prevent the added element from rotating relative to the support.

[0102] Advantageously, the attached element comprises a holding member configured to removably hold the attached element relative to the support. Thus, the risk of involuntary detachment of the attached element is reduced.

[0103] Advantageously, the support comprises a complementary holding member configured to cooperate with the holding member to ensure the removable holding of the added element relative to the support.

[0104] The holding member may comprise a projecting relief such as a gadroon, a complete or incomplete circumferential bead, a clip, an elastic arm or any other projecting relief capable of ensuring the removable holding of the attached element relative to the support.

[0105] Alternatively, the holding member may comprise a hollow relief, a recess, a complete or incomplete circumferential groove or any other hollow relief capable of ensuring the removable retention of the added element relative to the support. The complementary holding member may comprise a hollow relief, a recess, a complete or incomplete circumferential groove, or any other hollow relief capable of cooperating with the holding member to ensure the removable retention of the added element relative to the support.

[0106] Alternatively, the complementary holding member may comprise a projecting relief such as a gadroon, a complete or incomplete circumferential bead, a clip, an elastic arm or any other projecting relief capable of cooperating with the holding member to ensure the removable holding of the added element relative to the support.

[0107] Advantageously, the insert comprises the third bearing zone configured to abut against the columella, the alar rim of the patient's nostril or both. Thus different depths of insertion of the distal end of the dispensing head into the nostril can be proposed depending on the patient's anatomy.

[0108] In a preferred embodiment, the holder comprises the dispensing orifice.

[0109] Advantageously, the support comprises the distal end of the dispensing head and, optionally, the dispensing orifice.

[0110] Advantageously, the attached element comprises a through bore configured to be passed through by the distal end carried by the support when the attached element is attached to the support.

[0111] Alternatively to the positioning members and complementary positioning members described previously, the positioning member comprises a flat on the internal surface of the bore of the added element configured to cooperate with a complementary positioning member comprising a flat on the external surface of the support.

[0112] Alternatively to the positioning members and complementary positioning members described previously, the external surface of the support and the internal surface of the bore of the added element are frustoconical with the same angle, the axial stop is formed by the cooperation of the two surfaces.

[0113] Advantageously, the added element is positioned below the distal end carried by the support.

[0114] In an alternative embodiment, the insert comprises the distal end.

[0115] Advantageously, the attached element comprises an orifice for dispensing the product into the patient's nostril.

[0116] Advantageously, the insert comprises a single orifice for dispensing the product into the patient's nostril. Advantageously, the insert comprises a frustoconical portion configured to be inserted inside the patient's nostril.

[0117] In an alternative embodiment, the insert includes the surface configured to receive at least one finger of the user. The insert or holder includes the distal end.

[0118] The invention also relates to a product dispensing device comprising a dispensing head as previously described and assembled to an apparatus provided with a reservoir intended to contain the product to be dispensed.

[0119] Advantageously, the dispensing device is configured to dispense the product by a mechanical action of the user on the dispensing head, causing the activation of the dispensing mechanism, for example a pump or a valve, which will cause the dispensing of the product initially contained in the reservoir.

[0120] Advantageously, the mechanical action is a translation of the dispensing head relative to the device comprising the reservoir, preferably a translation which tends to bring the distal end of the dispensing head closer to the reservoir. Alternatively, the dispensing of product can be triggered by an action of the user on a part of the device, for example an action on an activation button.

[0121] Another object of the invention is a method for positioning a dispensing device as previously described, the method comprising at least the following steps: a. placing at least one finger, preferably the index finger and the middle finger, on the surface configured to receive at least one finger of the user and the thumb under the proximal end of the dispensing device, b. inserting the distal end of the dispensing head into a nostril of the patient, c. placing the first support zone in the groove of the patient's philtrum, d. placing the second support zone on the patient's upper lip, next to the patient's philtrum.

[0122] Advantageously, this method comprises an additional step, implemented between steps a. and b. and consisting of orienting the distribution device according to the orientation indicator, when the latter is present.

[0123] Each and every one of the functions and embodiments listed above can be combined with each other in all possible combinations as long as they are compatible. Brief description of the figures

[0124] The characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly during the following detailed description, given with reference to the drawings given as non-limiting examples and in which:

[0125] [Fig.1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a dispensing device according to the invention, provided with a dispensing head according to a first embodiment;

[0126] [Fig.2] Figure 2 is a perspective view from another angle, from below, of the dispensing head of the dispensing device of Figure 1;

[0127] [Fig.3] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view from above of a dispensing head according to a second embodiment;

[0128] [Fig.4] Figure 4 is a perspective view from below of an insert belonging to the dispensing head of Figure 3;

[0129] [Fig.5] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view from above of a dispensing head according to a third embodiment;

[0130] [Fig.6] Figure 6 is a perspective view from below of an insert belonging to the dispensing head of Figure 5;

[0131] [Fig.7] Figure 7 is a perspective view from above of a dispensing device according to the invention provided with a dispensing head according to a fourth embodiment;

[0132] [Fig.8] Figure 8 is a perspective view from above of a dispensing head according to a fifth embodiment;

[0133] [Fig. 9] Figure 9 is a perspective view from above of a dispensing head according to a sixth embodiment;

[0134] [Fig. 10] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of the dispensing head according to the sixth embodiment;

[0135] [Fig. 11] Figures 11a and 11b are perspective views from below of the insert of the sixth embodiment illustrating two alternatives of retaining members;

[0136] [Fig. 12] Figure 12 is a perspective view from above of a dispensing head according to a seventh embodiment; and

[0137] [Fig. 13] Figure 13 is a perspective view from above of an added element of a dispensing head according to an eighth embodiment.

[0138] Detailed description

[0139] The following embodiments are examples. Although the description refers to one or more embodiments, this does not mean that the features apply only to a single embodiment. Single features of different embodiments can also be combined to provide other embodiments.

[0140] The distribution direction characteristics in the patient's nostril to reach the targeted area, for example the olfactory area, are well known to those skilled in the art, in particular through document WO2021 / 066195A1, the article "The Influence of Spray Properties on Intranasal Deposition" published in volume 20, number 4 of the "Journal of aerosol medicine" in 2007, and the article "Personalized Medicine in Nasal Delivery: The Use of Patient-Specific Administration Parameters To Improve Nasal Drug Targeting Using 3D-Printed Nasal Replica Casts" published in 2018 in volume 15 of "Mol. Pharmaceutics".

[0141] The products, in particular pharmaceutical products, that can be distributed using the distribution device can be used for the treatment or prevention of neurological disorders, neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, or the treatment or prevention of brain tumors, autoimmune diseases, type I and II diabetes, depression, obesity including hypothalamic obesity, memory deficiencies, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, multiple sclerosis, autism, maternal neglect, dementia, anorexia, opiate addiction, schizophrenia, migraines, head trauma, stroke, cluster headaches, pain including that related to cancer, glioblastoma, hypopituitarism, sleep apnea, epilepsy, acromegaly or non-allergic irritant rhinitis.

[0142] The products, in particular pharmaceutical products, that may be distributed using the dispensing device are, for example, formulations containing at least one active ingredient such as corticosteroids, glucocorticoids, peptides, proteins, hormones, active ingredients of biological origin, cells including stem cells, nucleotide-based active ingredients, such as DNA, RNA or oligonucleotides, active ingredients with a molecular weight up to 1500 Da, terpenes, cannabinoids, polysaccharides, vaccines, enzymes, antibodies, antivirals, probiotics or nutritional formulations or a mixture thereof.

[0143] The products, in particular pharmaceutical products, that can be distributed using the dispensing device are, for example, formulations containing at least one active ingredient such as insulin, oxytocin, glutathione, glucagon, zolmitriptan, sumatriptan, frovatriptan, rizatriptan, eletriptan, naratriptan, almotriptan, ketorolac, zavegapant, lidocaine, ketamines including esketamine, temozolomide, safinamide, pimavanserin, dexmedetomidine, midazolam, levodopa, empagliflozin, diazepam, clonazepam, psilocybin, fentanyl, sufentanil, hydromorphone, oxymorphone, morphine, ocrelizumab, daclizumab, aducanumab, gantenerumab, bapineuzumab, solanezumab, ofatumumab amiloride, capsaicin, naloxone, dimethyl fumarate, epinephrine;atropine, metoclopramide, edaravone, valbenazine, imipramine, amitriptyline, nortriptyline, deutetrabenazine, nusinersen, bupropion, isocarbazide, aripiprazole, brexpiprazole, cariprazine, eslicarbazepine, flutemetamol, vortioxetine, gadoteric acid, clomipramine, fluoxetine, phenelzine, fluvoxamine, sertraline, citaprolam, escitaprolam, levomilnacipran, vilazodone, doxepin, selegiline, tranylcypromine, mirtazapine, vortioxetine, duloxetine, desvenlafaxine, paroxetine, orexins, leptin, camptothecin, olanzapine, risperidone, venlafaxine, zonisamide, estradiol, ropinirole, tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, valproic acid, rivastigmine, topiramate, in any of its derivative forms or analogues such as salts, hydrates, solvates, isomers or esters.;

[0144] Figure 1 illustrates a dispensing device 1 comprising a dispensing head 10 according to a first embodiment of the invention connected to an apparatus provided with a reservoir 2 containing the product to be dispensed, preferably a pharmaceutical fluid product. The dispensing device 1 is configured to generate a jet by a mechanical action of a user on the dispensing head 10, causing the activation of the dispensing mechanism, for example a pump or a valve, and the dispensing of the product.

[0145] In the device shown in Figure 1, the apparatus provided with the reservoir 2 is connected on the proximal side of the dispensing head 10. The mechanical action is a translation of the dispensing head 10 relative to the apparatus provided with the reservoir 2, preferably a translation which tends to bring a distal end 12 of the dispensing head 10 closer to the reservoir 2.

[0146] In this embodiment, the product is dispensed via a dispensing orifice 11 located at the distal end 12 of the dispensing head 10.

[0147] The distribution orifice 11 is, in this example, a cylindrical hole of revolution around an orifice axis A11.

[0148] Alternatively, the distribution orifice 11 is frustoconical in shape of revolution around an orifice axis.

[0149] The dispensing head 10 comprises a first support zone 13 and a second support zone 14. The first support zone 13 and the second support zone 14 jointly impose a dispensing direction in the patient's nostril, when the dispensing head is in place in the nostril.

[0150] In practice, the distribution direction is substantially aligned with the orifice axis A11.

[0151] The first support zone 13 comprises a rib 131 which forms a relief and which has a rounded crest of a shape complementary to that of the groove of the patient's philtrum. Here, the support zone 13 is formed by the rib 131. For example, the radius of the crest of the rib 131 may be between 1 millimeter and 2 millimeters. Thus, the relief formed by the rib 131 is configured to fit into the groove of the patient's philtrum.

[0152] The rib 131 comprises a distal end 131 D and a proximal end 131 P. The distance between the distal end 131 D of the rib 131 and the orthogonal projection of said distal end 131 D on the orifice axis A11 is smaller than the distance between the proximal end 131 P of the rib 131 and the orthogonal projection of said end 131 P on the orifice axis A11. Thus, the dispensing direction of the dispensing device provided with the dispensing head according to the first embodiment will target an area close to the olfactory area of ​​the nasal cavity of a patient. Preferably, the distance between the distal end 131 D of the rib 131 and the orthogonal projection of said distal end 131 D on the plane of symmetry P10 is smaller than the distance between the proximal end 131 P of the rib 131 and the orthogonal projection of said end 131 P on the plane of symmetry P10.

[0153] In the first embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the dispensing head 10 comprises two ribs 131 distributed symmetrically along a plane of symmetry P10 of the dispensing head 10, this plane of symmetry P10 comprising the orifice axis A11.

[0154] The rib 131 extends in a direction forming a first orientation angle of 10 degrees with the plane of symmetry P10 and a second orientation angle of 30 degrees with a second plane perpendicular to the plane of symmetry P10 and containing the orifice axis A11.

[0155] In this embodiment, the second support zone 14 comprises a substantially concave surface 141 formed between the ribs 131. The ribs 131 are adjacent to the substantially concave surface 141.

[0156] The dispensing head 10 comprises a surface 15 configured to receive at least one finger of the user. The user can thus press the surface 15 when necessary.

[0157] In this embodiment, the surface 15 configured to receive at least one finger of the user is carried by at least one radial protrusion 151. Preferably, the surface 15 is positioned on the distal side of each radial protrusion 151. Preferably the dispensing head 10 comprises two radial protrusions 151 located on either side of the dispensing head 10 and together defining the surface 15, as illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0158] In a non-shown embodiment of the invention, the dispensing head 10 may comprise a single, circumferential radial protrusion, this single, circumferential radial protrusion comprising the surface 15.

[0159] Advantageously, the or each radial protrusion 151 is positioned at the proximal end of the dispensing head 10.

[0160] In this example, the dispensing head 10 comprises a cavity 16 configured to receive a part of the device, preferably a part of the reservoir 2. The cavity 16 is carried by a proximal face of the dispensing head 10. The cavity 16 is cylindrical in this example.

[0161] As illustrated in Figure 2, the bottom of the cavity 16 comprises a sealed connection interface 17 with the device, configured to receive in a sealed manner an element of the device via which the product exits the tank 2. By way of non-limiting example, this element of the device may be a tube.

[0162] In this example, the sealed connection interface 17 is a cylindrical sheath

[0163] 171 defining a cavity 172 at the bottom of which is located a conduit 173 connecting the cavity

[0164] 172 to the distribution port 11.

[0165] In this example, the cylindrical sleeve 171 is configured to be tightly mounted around the element of the apparatus, when this element is positioned in the cavity 172, so that the clamping between the cylindrical sleeve 171 and the element of the apparatus prevents leakage of the liquid.

[0166] As illustrated in the example of Figure 1, the dispensing head 10 comprises a third bearing area 18 configured to abut against the columella or the alar rim of the patient's nostril or both. The third bearing area 18 is formed by a surface 181 transverse to the orifice axis A11 and extending radially on the outside of the dispensing head 10 so as to form a shoulder configured to abut against the columella or the alar rim of the patient's nostril or both. In this example, a distance d18, measured parallel to the orifice axis A11, between the distal end 12 and the transverse surface 181 is between 12 and 24 millimeters, preferably between 16 and 20 millimeters.

[0167] In this example, the dispensing head comprises a distal portion 19 and a proximal portion 20. The distal portion 19 is generally frustoconical in shape, coaxial with the dispensing orifice 11, i.e. centered on the orifice axis A11, and comprises the distal end 12. The distal portion 19 is configured to be inserted into the patient's nostril. The shoulder formed by the transverse surface 181 extends around the distal portion 19 and a radial distance between the distal portion 19 and the point of the transverse surface 181 furthest from the distal portion is at least 2 millimeters.

[0168] The proximal portion 20 is generally cylindrical in shape and comprises the surface 15. Preferably, the proximal portion 20 comprises the two radial protrusions 151.

[0169] The first support zone 13 and the second support zone 14 are positioned between the distal portion 19 and the proximal portion 20 of the dispensing head 10.

[0170] As illustrated in Figure 1, the distal end 12 may comprise at least one flat 21, preferably two flats 21 distributed on either side of the plane of symmetry P10. Advantageously, the flats are inclined relative to the plane of symmetry P10. Preferably, an angle α formed by each flat 21 with the plane of symmetry P10 is between 5 degrees and 15 degrees.

[0171] In this example, the dispensing head 10 is obtained by a plastic injection molding process.

[0172] According to an example of use of a dispensing device 1 according to the first embodiment, illustrated by figures 1 and 2, the user, for example a health professional, connects the dispensing head 10 via the sealed connection interface 17 to the device provided with the reservoir 2 containing the product to be dispensed, and thus forming the dispensing device 1.

[0173] The user can then take hold of the dispensing device 1, preferably by placing the index and middle fingers of his hand on the surface 15 configured to receive the user's fingers and carried by the two radial protrusions 151, and the thumb of his hand below the reservoir 2, which in this example projects from the proximal end of the dispensing head 10. The user is then ready to position the dispensing device 1 in the patient's nostril.

[0174] The user can then insert the distal end 12 into a nostril of the patient, then place one of the ribs 131 belonging to the first bearing area 13 in the groove of the patient's philtrum and finally place the substantially concave surface 141, belonging to the second bearing area 14, on the upper lip, next to the patient's philtrum. Optionally, the user can push the distal end 12 into the patient's nostril until the third bearing area 18 abuts against the patient's columella or the alar rim of the patient's nostril or both. The dispensing device 1 is then optimally positioned so that the product sent in the dispensing direction into the nostril can reach the target area, for example the olfactory area of ​​the nasal cavity, located in the upper part of the nasal cavity, in which the branches of the olfactory nerve are present, directly connected to the brain via the olfactory bulb.The user then presses the dispensing head 10 towards the reservoir 2 to trigger the dispensing of the product into the patient's nostril.

[0175] The second embodiment illustrated by Figures 3 and 4 will now be described.

[0176] Only the differences and specificities compared to the first embodiment are detailed. Any element or characteristic not explicitly mentioned is incorporated into this embodiment.

[0177] In the second embodiment, the dispensing head 10 comprises an added element 30, the first support zone 13, comprising the rib 131, and the second support zone 14, comprising the substantially concave surface 141, being positioned on the added element 30. In this example, the dispensing head 10 also comprises a support 40 comprising the surface 15 and on which the added element 30 is attached.

[0178] In this example, the distal end 12 and the dispensing orifice 11 are carried by the support 40. The flats 21 are also carried by the support 40.

[0179] The attached element 30 can be detached from the support 40 by the user, for example by a mechanical action such as manual traction by the user towards the distal end 12.

[0180] The insert comprises a through bore 301, configured to surround a portion of the support 40. The bore 301 illustrated in FIG. 4 is cylindrical and centered on a bore axis A301 which coincides with the orifice axis A11 in the inserted configuration of the insert 30 on the support 40.

[0181] Alternatively, the bore 301 may be of elliptical section or of any other shape complementary to the part of the support 40 which it surrounds.

[0182] In this embodiment, the insert 30 is symmetrical with respect to a plane of symmetry P30 which includes the bore axis A301.

[0183] In this example, the added element 30 comprises a portion of generally semi-cylindrical shape, with the same axis as the bore 301, as well as a portion having a regular trapezoidal projection in a plane perpendicular to the plane of symmetry P30 and arranged so that it is parallel to the distribution direction when the added element 30 is added to the support 40.

[0184] In this example, the ribs 131 form the sides of the trapezoid and surround the substantially concave surface 141.

[0185] As illustrated in the example of figures 3 and 4, the added element 30 comprises a positioning member 302 imposing the position of the added element 30 relative to the support 40. In this example, the positioning member 302 comprises two longitudinal ribs 3021, positioned on the inner surface of the bore 301 and distributed on each side of the bore axis A301.

[0186] In embodiments not shown, the added element 30 may comprise a single rib or a number of ribs strictly greater than two, preferably regularly distributed around the bore axis A301 on the inner surface of the bore 301.

[0187] As illustrated in Figure 3, the support 40 may comprise a complementary positioning member 401 comprising two longitudinal grooves 4011 configured to receive the two ribs 3021 of the added element 30 and to secure in rotation the added element 30 and the support 40. Only one groove 4011 is visible in Figure 3, the other groove being symmetrical to that visible with respect to the orifice axis A11.

[0188] In this embodiment, the proximal end of each rib 3021 is configured to abut against the proximal end of the corresponding groove 4011, in order to impose the axial position of the added element 30 relative to the support 40, along the axes A11 and A301 combined.

[0189] Each rib 3021 may include a chamfer 3021A on its proximal end intended to facilitate assembly of the rib 3021 in the corresponding groove 4011 of the support 40.

[0190] In this embodiment, the maintenance of the insert 30 relative to the support 40 is achieved by an interference between the internal diameter of the bore 301 and the external surface of the support 40 around which the bore 301 is placed.

[0191] In this embodiment, the support 40 comprises a distal portion 402 of generally frustoconical shape coaxial with the distribution orifice 11, that is to say centered on the orifice axis A11.

[0192] The ribs 4011 are positioned on the outer surface of the proximal portion 402.

[0193] In this example, the transverse surface 181 forming the third support zone 18 is carried by a distal surface of the added element 30.

[0194] The added element 30 is, in this example, produced by plastic injection.

[0195] The support 40 is, in this example, produced by plastic injection.

[0196] According to an example of use of a dispensing device 1 according to the second embodiment, illustrated by figures 3 and 4, the user, for example a health professional, attaches the insert 30, chosen beforehand according to the anatomy of the patient, to the support 40, by first aligning the bore 301 with the distal portion 402 of the support 40, that is to say by aligning the bore axis A301 with the orifice axis A11, then by aligning each rib 3021 of the insert 30 with each corresponding groove 4011 of the support 40. Once this step is completed, the user slides the insert 30 around the support 23 in the proximal direction, until the proximal end of the ribs 3021 abuts against the proximal end of the grooves 4011. The dispensing head 10 is ready for use. The subsequent operation steps are similar to those of the first embodiment.

[0197] The third embodiment illustrated by Figures 5 and 6 will now be described.

[0198] Only the differences and specificities compared to the second embodiment are detailed. Any element or characteristic not explicitly mentioned is incorporated into this embodiment.

[0199] In this embodiment, the dispensing head 10 comprises an insert 50 comprising the distal end 12 and the dispensing orifice 11.

[0200] The first support zone 13, comprising the rib 131, and the second support zone 14, comprising the substantially concave surface 141, are positioned on the added element 50.

[0201] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the dispensing head comprises a support 60 on which the added element 50 is attached.

[0202] We note A60 a longitudinal axis of the support 60.

[0203] As shown in the example of Figure 5, the added element 50 comprises a distal portion 501 of generally frustoconical shape configured to be in contact with the inside of the user's nostril, the distal end 12 of the dispensing head 10 being carried by the distal portion 501 of the added element 50.

[0204] The rib 131 and the substantially concave surface 141 are positioned on a proximal portion 502 of the insert 50.

[0205] The added element 50 is symmetrical along a plane of symmetry P50 containing the orifice axis A11.

[0206] In this example, the added element 50 comprises two ribs 131 symmetrical with respect to the plane of symmetry.

[0207] In this embodiment and as illustrated in FIG. 6, the added element 50 comprises a cavity 503 configured to receive a portion of the support 60. In this example, the cavity 503 is arranged on the proximal portion 502, preferably on a proximal face 5021 of the proximal portion 502. Preferably, the cavity 503 is of general cylindrical shape of revolution around a cavity axis A503 perpendicular to the proximal face 5021.

[0208] The proximal portion 502 of the insert 50 comprises a portion of generally semi-cylindrical shape, as well as a portion having a regular trapezoidal projection along a plane perpendicular to the plane of symmetry P50 and arranged so that it is parallel to the orifice axis A11. In this example, the ribs 131 form the sides of the trapezoid and surround the substantially concave surface 141.

[0209] In this example, the added element 50 comprises a positioning member 504 formed by at least one flat 5041 positioned in the cavity 503 and parallel to the axis of the cavity 503. Preferably, the positioning member 504 comprises two flats 5041 distributed on each side of the cavity axis A503, as illustrated in FIG. 6. Advantageously, the two flats 5041 are symmetrical with respect to the plane of symmetry P50.

[0210] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the insert 50 comprises a sealed connection interface 505 with the support 60, this sealed connection interface 505 being formed by a bore 5051 provided with a bottom 5051A. In this example, the bore 5051 is located at the bottom of the cavity 503. The insert 50 comprises a conduit 506 configured to convey the fluid from the sealed connection member 505 to the distribution orifice 11. The conduit 506 opens at the bottom 5051A of the bore 5051.

[0211] In this embodiment, the support 60 is of generally cylindrical shape of revolution around the support axis A60.

[0212] In this example, the support 60 carries a conduit 173 through which a product can flow from the reservoir 2 of a device of the same type as that illustrated for the first embodiment.

[0213] In this example, the conduit 173 connects the sealed connection interface 17 of the support 60 to the bore 5051 of the sealed connection member 505 of the added element 50.

[0214] The support 60 illustrated in FIG. 5 comprises, at its distal end, a flat surface 601, transverse to the longitudinal axis A60 of the support 60 and from which extends a cylindrical rod 602 of revolution around the longitudinal axis A60 of the support 60.

[0215] In this example, the conduit 173 opens at the distal end of the rod 602.

[0216] The distal end of the rod 602 of the support 60 is configured to be housed in the bore 5051 of the insert 50 so as to create a sealed connection connecting the conduit 173 of the support 60 to the conduit 506 of the insert 50, thus creating a fluid path from the sealed connection interface 17 with the device to the dispensing orifice 11. Preferably, the sealed connection is made by clamping between the outer lateral surface of the rod 602 and the inner lateral surface of the bore 5051.

[0217] In a non-represented embodiment of the invention, a circumferential sealing ring may be present on the outer lateral surface of the rod 602 or the inner lateral surface of the bore 5051. In this embodiment, the support 60 comprises a complementary positioning member 603 formed by at least two ribs 6031, preferably four radial ribs 6031 made of the same material as both the transverse flat surface 601 and the rod 602. These radial ribs 6031 are configured to cooperate with the flats 5041 of the added element 50 to prevent rotation, around the axes A60 and A503 combined, of the added element 50 relative to the support 60.

[0218] In this embodiment, the positioning member 504 comprises the proximal face 5021 of the added element 50, visible in FIG. 6, which is configured to abut against the transverse flat surface 601 of the support 60, visible in FIG. 5, to define the axial position of the added element 50 relative to the support 60, along the axes A60 and A503 combined.

[0219] Thus the cooperation of the flats 5041 and the proximal face 5021 of the added element 50 with respectively the ribs 6031 and the transverse flat surface 601 of the support 60 jointly imposes a fixed position of the added element 50 relative to the support 60.

[0220] In this embodiment, the holding member comprises the rod 602 of the support 60 which is constrained in the bore 5051 of the insert 550, so as to removably hold the insert 50 in position relative to the support 60.

[0221] In this example, the transverse flat surface 181 forming the third support zone 18 is carried by the distal face of the proximal portion 502 of the added element 50.

[0222] The added element 50 is, in this example, produced by plastic injection.

[0223] The support 60 is, in this example, produced by plastic injection.

[0224] According to an example of use of a dispensing device 1 according to the third embodiment, the user places the insert 50, chosen beforehand according to the anatomy of the patient, on the support 60 by first aligning the flats 5041 of the insert 50 with the ribs 6031 of the support 60. Then the user pushes the insert 50 axially towards the support 60 until the proximal face 5021 of the insert 50 comes into abutment against the transverse flat surface 601 of the support 60. During this movement, the bore 5051 of the insert 50 receives the rod 602 of the support 50 and creates a sealed connection between the insert 50 and the support 60. In this way, the conduit 506 of the insert 50 and the conduit 173 of the support 60 are in fluid connection. The dispensing head 10 is ready for use.

[0225] The subsequent steps of use are similar to those of the first and second embodiments.

[0226] The fourth embodiment illustrated by Figure 7 will now be described. Only the differences and specificities compared to the first embodiment are detailed. Any element or characteristic not explicitly mentioned is incorporated in this embodiment.

[0227] The device of the fourth embodiment is distinguished from that of the first embodiment in that it comprises an orientation indicator 70 configured to give an indication to the user on the quality of the orientation of the device relative to the patient's nostril.

[0228] In this example, the orientation indicator is formed by a relief 701, hollow or projecting, defining an orientation axis A70 and positioned on the outer surface of the dispensing head 10 so that it is visible to the user.

[0229] The dispensing head 10 comprises an identical number of orientation indicators and series of support zones. A series of support zones is understood to mean a first support zone 13 and a second support zone 14 jointly imposing a direction of dispensing of the product into the patient's nostril. In the example of Figure 7, the dispensing head 10 comprises four series of support zones and four orientation indicators 70 each formed by a relief 701, two visible in Figure 7 and two others on the opposite side not visible in Figure 7.

[0230] An example of use of a dispensing head 10 provided with an orientation indicator 70 according to the fourth embodiment will now be described.

[0231] In this example, the user first selects the dispensing head 10 that he believes best matches the patient's anatomy. The user then places the two support zones of the dispensing head 10 on the patient's face to impose the dispensing direction in the patient's nostril. The orientation indicator, here the relief 701, is then visible on the side of the dispensing head 10 without radial protrusion 151. The user can then validate the orientation of the relief 701 to confirm the choice of the dispensing head model or select another one having a different first support zone 13 and a different second support zone 14, imposing another dispensing direction in the patient's different nostril.

[0232] In a variant not shown, the dispensing head 10 may cumulatively comprise an added element, as described in the second and third embodiments, and an orientation indicator 70, as described in the fourth embodiment.

[0233] In this variant, the orientation indicator 70 is carried by the attached element or the support or both. The use of a dispensing head 10 according to this variant is similar to that of the fourth embodiment.

[0234] The fifth embodiment illustrated by Figure 8 will now be described. Only the differences and specificities compared to the first embodiment are detailed. Any element or characteristic not explicitly mentioned is incorporated in this embodiment.

[0235] This fifth embodiment is distinguished from the first embodiment by the fact that the transverse surface 181 of the third support zone 18 is carried by two fins 1811. The fins 1811 extend radially from the distal portion 19 of the dispensing head 10 and are distributed symmetrically with respect to the plane of symmetry P10 of the dispensing head, defined as in the first embodiment.

[0236] The sixth embodiment illustrated by Figures 9 to 11 will now be described.

[0237] Only the differences and specificities compared to the second embodiment are detailed. Any element or characteristic not explicitly mentioned is incorporated into this embodiment.

[0238] In this embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the dispensing head 10 comprises an insert 80 which comprises the first support zone 13, the second support zone 14 and the surface 15 configured to receive at least one finger of the user. The dispensing head also comprises a support 90. The support 90 comprises the dispensing orifice 11 as well as a radial protrusion 901. The support 90 comprises the distal end 12 which is preferably of generally frustoconical shape. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the radial protrusion 901 is formed by a collar.

[0239] In a variant not shown, the radial protrusion may be formed by two radial extensions extending on either side of the support.

[0240] As illustrated in Figure 11a, the added element 80 comprises a cavity 801 configured to receive the radial protrusion 901, here formed by a collar. The cavity 801 has, over at least part of its height, a generally cylindrical shape of circular section, of axis A801 ​​and of diameter substantially greater than that of the radial protrusion 901. The cavity 801 comprises a bottom 8011 and a lateral surface 8012, said lateral surface 8012 forming the side of the cylinder of the cavity 801. The bottom 8011 is configured to abut against the radial protrusion 901 so as to be able to transmit an axial force to the support 90 along the axis A801. The bottom 8011 is provided with an opening 08011 crossed by the distal end 12 of the support 90. The lateral surface 8012 comprises retaining members 8013 configured to cooperate with the radial protrusion 901 of the support so as to secure, in translation along the axis A801, the added element 80 relative to the support 90.Preferably, the retaining members 8013 are dimensioned so that disassembly of the insert element 80 from the support 90 is possible, for example in the case where the user wishes to remove the insert element 80 from the support 90. In the example of FIG. 11a, the retaining members 8013 are arranged in the form of four reliefs 8013A projecting from the lateral surface 8012, located at the same altitude and distributed uniformly on the lateral surface 8012, around the axis A801. These reliefs 8013A are arranged to cooperate with a proximal surface 901P of the radial protrusion 901, here a collar. In variants not shown, the number of reliefs 8013A can vary from two to eight.

[0241] Figure 11b illustrates an alternative to the insert of Figure 11a in which the retaining members 8013 are formed by a continuous bead 8013B placed on the circumference of the cylindrical lateral surface 8012 and also configured to cooperate with the proximal surface 901P of the radial protrusion 901.

[0242] The seventh embodiment illustrated by Figure 12 will now be described.

[0243] Only the differences and specificities compared to the sixth embodiment are detailed. Any element or characteristic not explicitly mentioned is incorporated into this embodiment.

[0244] In this embodiment, illustrated in Figure 12, the third bearing surface 18 is carried by a surface 181 transverse to the axis of the distal portion 12, said transverse surface 181 being carried by an annular protrusion 1812 of an added element 100. The annular protrusion 1812 extends along the axis A801 ​​in the direction of the distal end 12 and around the support 90. The axis A801 ​​coincides with the axis of the support 90. The use of a dispensing head provided with such an added element 100 makes it possible to obtain a stop promoting shallow insertion of the dispensing head 10 into the patient's nostril, without significantly increasing the dimensions of the dispensing head.

[0245] The eighth embodiment illustrated by Figure 13 will now be described.

[0246] Only the differences and specificities compared to the sixth embodiment are detailed. Any element or characteristic not explicitly mentioned is incorporated into this embodiment.

[0247] In this embodiment, the dispensing head comprises an insert 110 in which the distance between the distal end 131 D of the rib 131 and the orthogonal projection of said distal end 131 D on the plane of symmetry P10, defined as in the first embodiment, is greater than the distance between the proximal end 131 P of the rib and the projection of said proximal end 131 P on the plane of symmetry P10. Thus, the dispensing direction of the dispensing device provided with the dispensing head according to the eighth embodiment will target an area close to the nasal turbinates of the nasal cavity.

[0248] The present invention has been described with reference to various advantageous embodiments, but it is understood that a person skilled in the art may make any modifications thereto, without departing from the scope of the present invention. The embodiments and variants mentioned in the present description may be combined, in any technically admissible combination, within the scope of the invention defined by the attached set of claims.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Nasal dispensing head (10) for a fluid product provided with two support zones (13, 14) on the face of a patient, which jointly impose a dispensing direction (A11) of the product in a nostril of the patient, and a surface (15) configured to receive at least one finger of the user, the two support zones (13, 14) being positioned between a distal end (12) of the dispensing head configured to be introduced into the nostril of the patient and the surface (15), characterized in that a first support zone (13), among the two support zones (13, 14), is a relief configured to be housed in the groove of the philtrum of the patient.

2. Dispensing head according to the preceding claim in which the relief of the first support zone (13) is a rib (131).

3. Dispensing head according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the second support zone (14) comprises a substantially concave surface (141) configured to bear on the upper lip, next to the patient's philtrum.

4. Dispensing head according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the first support zone (13) and the second support zone (14) are adjacent.

5. A dispensing head according to any preceding claim, wherein the dispensing head (10) comprises a third bearing area (18) configured to abut against the columella or the alar rim of the patient's nostril or both.

6. Dispensing head according to any one of the preceding claims, which comprises a single orifice (11) defining an orifice axis, and which is symmetrical with respect to at least one plane (P10) including the orifice axis (A11).

7. Dispensing head according to any one of the preceding claims, which comprises an insert (30; 50; 80; 100; 110), the first support zone (13) and the second support zone (14) being positioned on the added element (30; 50; 80; 100; 110).

8. Dispensing head according to claim 7 wherein the dispensing head comprises a support (40; 60) comprising the surface (15) configured to receive at least one finger of the user, and on which the added element (30; 50) is attached.

9. Dispensing head according to the preceding claim in which the added element (30; 50) comprises a positioning member (302; 504) imposing the position of the added element (30; 50) relative to the support (40; 60) 10. Dispensing head according to claim 7 wherein the insert (50) comprises the distal end (12) of the dispensing head (10).

11. Dispensing head according to the preceding claim in which the attached element (50) comprises a dispensing orifice (11) for the product in the patient's nostril.

12. Dispensing head according to claim 9 in which the positioning member (302) comprises at least one rib (3021) provided on the attached element (30) and cooperating with a groove (4011) provided on the support (40).

13. Dispensing head according to claim 8, wherein the insert (50) comprises a frustoconical portion (501) configured to be inserted inside the patient's nostril.

14. Dispensing head according to claim 7, in which the attached element (50; 80; 100; 110) comprises a third support zone (18) configured to abut against the columella and / or the alar rim of the patient's nostril.

15. Dispensing head according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one orientation indicator (70) configured to assist the user in orienting the dispensing head in the dispensing direction.

16. Dispensing head according to the preceding claim, in which the orientation indicator (70) is a mark (701) defining an axis (A70).

17. Product dispensing device (1) comprising a dispensing head (10) according to any one of the preceding claims and a dispensing apparatus provided with a reservoir (2), the dispensing head (10) being assembled on the dispensing apparatus.

18. Method for positioning a dispensing device (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that it comprises at least the following steps: a. placing at least one finger, preferably the index finger and the middle finger, on the surface (15) configured to receive at least one finger of the user and the thumb below the product reservoir (2), b. inserting the distal end (12) of the dispensing head (10) into a nostril of the patient, c. placing the first support zone (13) in the groove of the patient's philtrum, d. placing the second support zone (14) on the patient's upper lip, next to the patient's philtrum.

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