VIAL adapter and injection kit for withdrawing a liquid medicament from an injection vial

Abstract

A vial adapter for connecting to an injection vial comprises an adapter body comprising a top wall and a sidewall, the sidewall projecting from the top wall in a longitudinal direction to form a receptacle with a distal side of the top wall. The receptacle is configured to receive at least a portion of a barrel head of an injection vial. A movable part comprises a base part and a tipped cannula fixed to the base part. The tipped cannula extends through the top wall into the receptacle, wherein the movable part is movable relative to the adapter body in a longitudinal direction. The tipped cannula comprises an elongated fluid channel, a tipped distal end configured to penetrate a pierceable stopper of the injection vial, and a channel aperture located inside the receptacle and located proximally offset from the tipped distal end.

Description

[0001] Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0002] VIAL ADAPTER AND INJECTION KIT FOR WITHDRAWING A LIQUID MEDICAMENT FROM AN INJECTION VIAL

[0003] CLAIM OF PRIORITY

[0004] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 18 / 958,540, filed on November 25, 2024. The entire contents of the foregoing are incorporated herein by reference.

[0005] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0006] The present disclosure relates to the field of vial adapters configured for fastening to an injection vial and for withdrawing a liquid medicament from the injection vial, e.g., by a fluid transfer device, such as a syringe. In a further aspect the disclosure relates to an injection kit comprising an injection vial and a vial adapter as well as to a method of withdrawing a liquid medicament contained in an injection vial by making use of a vial adapter.

[0007] BACKGROUND

[0008] Patients suffering from certain diseases like, for example, haemophilia or requiring enzyme replacement therapy, have to take regular intravenous (IV) infusions. The infusions often have to be mixed and prepared, sometimes to the specific needs of the patient, (and sometimes a short time before drug administration) which may include reconstitution of the drug powder from multiple vials using an exact amount of sterile liquids like water and / or saline. As this preparation process is typically complex and tedious, it is usually performed by a health care professional in a clinic or pharmacy, potentially using lab equipment.

[0009] Generally, administering a medicament by way of infusion may require a rather clean or sterile environment. A patient may therefore have to regularly visit an ambulance or health care center.

[0010] Self-medication or home-medication for administering a medicament through infusion or injection is and remains quite challenging but is very attractive for patients thereby avoiding problems and circumstances involved in visiting a health care center. With home- or self- medication a patient or user, e.g., intending to establish a vascular access to a patient's body, may be obliged to use only one hand, which might be rather cumbersome and thus challenging.

[0011] In addition, it is often required to establish or maintain a clean and / or sterile environment especially in the field of home-medication or self-medication as well as providing of a clean and sterile storage environment for medicaments and medicament containers, medical device Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 accessory and medical devices.

[0012] Some medicaments, which are administered by injection or infusion may be provided in a comparatively small container or there may have to be administered a particularly small amount of medicament, which may be highly concentrated. Here, it may be of particular relevance that the entire content of the medicament container, e.g., containing a liquid injectable medicament is completely emptied and is entirely transferred into a fluid transfer device or injection device, such as a syringe.

[0013] Some medicaments to be administered by injection or infusion may be provided in a co-called injection vial, either in liquid or powdered form. Such injection vials typically comprise a barrel filled with the medicament either in a liquid or powdered form. The barrel is typically sealed towards an outlet by a pierceable stopper. The pierceable stopper may be fixed to a barrel head, which may also provide a mechanical fastening for a vial adapter.

[0014] Vial adapters are widely known in the art and may provide a well-defined fastening to the barrel head of an injection vial. They may comprise a spike to penetrate the pierceable stopper sealing the outlet of the injection barrel. The spike is typically in fluid communication with a connector, e.g., implemented as a standardized connector that may provide a mechanical fastening of an injection device so that the liquid content provided inside the injection vial can be withdrawn by a fluid transfer device or injection device, e.g., by a syringe or the like medicament container connectable to the vial adapter.

[0015] With some vial adapters the spike configured to pierce the pierceable stopper of the vial comprises hollow fluid channel with an inlet opening at a tipped end thereof. In use and when the vial adapter is fastened to the injection vial and when the spike has penetrated the pierceable stopper the inlet opening of the fluid channel may be located at a non-neglectable distance from an inside surface of the pierceable stopper. Such distances are difficult to control or to define because they predominately arise from manufacturing, design and / or assembly tolerances of the stopper, of the barrel and / or of the vial adapter. In use and when the medicament is to be withdrawn from the injection vial, the injection vial with the vial adapter attached thereto may be held upside down.

[0016] Since the inlet opening of the spike or of the cannula of the vial adapter through which the liquid medicament can be withdrawn from the interior of the injection vial, is located at a longitudinal distance from the inside surface of the pierceable stopper a complete emptying or nearly complete emptying of the injection vial may become quite tricky and cumbersome if not Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 impossible.

[0017] Hence, with known solutions of vial adapters a complete or nearly complete withdrawal and / or emptying of the injection vial may not be achievable in a straightforward manner. When using such vial adapters, a residual amount of the medicament may always remain inside the cavity or interior of the injection vial.

[0018] In situations or with examples wherein the liquid medicament is comparatively expensive or when the total volume of the injection vial is quite limited such leftovers inside the injection vial may be no longer acceptable and should be avoided.

[0019] It is therefore desirable to provide an improved vial adapter that enables or provides a complete or nearly complete emptying of an injection vial, such that a residual amount of medicament left in the injection vial can be minimized or can be even avoided.

[0020] SUMMARY

[0021] The above-mentioned disadvantages and shortcomings are solved by vial adapter, by an injection kit and by a method of withdrawing a liquid medicament in accordance with the features of the independent claims. Various examples and embodiments are subject matter of the dependent claims, respectively.

[0022] In one aspect there is provided a vial adapter for connecting to an injection vial. The injection vial comprises a barrel and a barrel head. The barrel head comprises or forms an outlet, through which a liquid medicament located inside a cavity or interior volume of the barrel can be withdrawn from the injection vial. The outlet is sealed by a pierceable stopper and the pierceable stopper comprises an inside surface, e.g., facing towards the cavity of the injection vial.

[0023] The vial adapter, which is configured for connecting to the injection vial, comprises an adapter body and a movable part. The adapter body comprises a top wall and a sidewall. The sidewall projects from the top wall, e.g., from an outer circumference or outer edge of the top wall in a longitudinal direction. The sidewall of the adapter body projects or protrudes from the top wall in the longitudinal direction to form a receptacle, e.g., a cup-shaped receptacle with an inside surface or distal side of the top wall. The cup-shaped receptacle is configured to receive at least a portion of the barrel head. The receptacle may be configured to engage, e.g., to mechanically engage or to mechanically fasten to the barrel head of the injection vial. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0024] The vial adapter further comprises a movable part. The movable part comprises a base part and a tipped cannula which is fixed to the base part. The tipped cannula extends through the top wall and / or through the base part, e.g., along the longitudinal direction. The tipped cannula comprises an elongated fluid channel. The elongated fluid channel may comprise a proximal channel section merging into a mechanical connector and may further comprise a distal channel section.

[0025] The movable part is movable relative to the adapter body in a longitudinal direction. The tipped cannula comprises a tipped distal end to penetrate the pierceable stopper. The cannula further comprises a channel aperture located at or near the tipped distal end. The channel aperture is located inside the receptacle of the adapter body and is located proximally offset from the tipped distal end of the cannula. The channel aperture may be in permanent flow communication with the distal channel section of the cannula.

[0026] The elongated fluid channel may comprise a distal channel section, which is provided with the channel aperture. Hence, the channel aperture may provide a fluid communication between an exterior around the tipped cannula and the distal channel section.

[0027] The tipped cannula is fixed to the movable part. It may be fixed to the base part. This way and by moving one of the movable part and its base part the tipped cannula is movable and / is moved relative to the adapter body.

[0028] The channel aperture is in permanent fluid connection with the elongated fluid channel extending into or through the tipped cannula. The channel aperture may comprise or constitute a distal end of the elongated fluid channel.

[0029] Since the channel aperture is located proximally offset from the tipped distal end it can be provided that the channel aperture gets in flow communication or fluid communication with an interior of the injection vial only after the tipped distal end of the tipped cannula has penetrated the pierceable stopper to a sufficient degree, e.g., completely.

[0030] With the channel aperture located proximally offset from the tipped distal end of the tipped cannula it can be provided that the channel aperture, through which the elongated fluid channel may exclusively get in flow of fluid communication with the interior of the barrel of the injection vial, is located fairly close to the inside surface of the pierceable stopper when the vial adapter and / or the movable part thereof has or have reached a final assembly configuration. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0031] The proximal offset and hence a predetermined distance between the tipped distal end of the tipped cannula and the channel aperture, through which the distal end of the elongated fluid channel is fluidically accessible, provides a rather simple and elegant approach to bring the channel aperture in close proximity to the inside surface of the pierceable stopper.

[0032] According to some examples, the proximal offset between the tipped distal end and the channel aperture is larger than a diameter of the channel aperture. The proximal offset may be larger than two times, three times or even larger than four times or five times the diameter of the channel aperture.

[0033] According to a further example the tipped cannula is made of a metallic material. The tipped cannula may be a single pieced cannula. It may be unitarily shaped and may consist of only one piece.

[0034] A metallic tipped cannula or a tipped cannula made of a metallic material is rather robust and may provide a reliable, long-lasting and durable use. It may provide a rather straightforward and easy penetration of the pierceable stopper, which may be made of an elastomeric material, such as natural or synthetic rubber. Moreover, a tipped cannula made of a metallic material may provide a proper penetration or cutting through the material of the pierceable stopper, such that the material of the pierceable stopper does not enter, clog or otherwise block a lumen of the fluid channel of the tipped cannula.

[0035] Moreover, manufacturing of a tipped cannula made of metallic material may be rather cost efficient.

[0036] According to a further example the tipped cannula is made of stainless steel. Stainless steel may provide a stable, and non-wearing tipped cannula.

[0037] According to a further example the adapter body and / or the base part of the vial adapter may comprise a plastic material or may be made of a plastic material. The adapter body may be a single pieced plastic material. Also, the base part of the movable part may comprise a single or unitarily formed plastic body.

[0038] The adapter body and / or the base part may comprise an injection molded plastic body, which can be manufactured and assembled in a mass manufacturing process rather cost-efficiently. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0039] According to a further example the base part comprises a molded body and the tipped cannula is insert molded in the molded body. With further examples the molded body may comprise an injection molded body. The molded body may comprise a one-component or two-component injection molded plastic body, with an insert molded tipped cannula. Here, the tipped cannula may be made of a material that distinguishes from the material of the molded body. In some examples the insert molded tipped cannula comprises a metallic material, such as stainless steel.

[0040] In some examples only a proximal end section of the tipped cannula is injection molded or insert molded in the molded body of the base part. Hence, a distal section or distal portion of the distally tipped cannula protrudes distally from the base part.

[0041] With the tipped cannula being insert molded in the molded body of the base part there can be provided a rather efficient and effective as well as durable and non-detachable mutual fastening and fixing between the tipped cannula and the base part. Moreover, a final assembly of the cannula to the adapter body can be facilitated with the molded body being permanently attached or fixed to the tipped cannula. Hence, for the process of final assembly of the vial adapter a rather easy handling of the tipped cannula may be provided via the base part, which is permanently fixed to the tipped cannula.

[0042] According to further examples the molded body is made of a plastic material. Hence, the injection molded body may comprise an injection molded plastic material.

[0043] According to a further example the movable part is adjustably movable relative to the adapter body along the longitudinal direction in order to align the channel aperture with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper of the injection vial.

[0044] The fluid channel may further comprise a proximal channel section merging into a mechanical connector of the vial adapter. The mechanical connector may provide a mechanical connection to an external fluid transfer device, such as an injection device, e.g., implemented as a syringe. By way of a fluid transfer device a fluid can be urged either from the fluid transfer device into the proximal channel section and / or a fluid originally located inside the interior of the barrel can be withdrawn through the channel aperture into the fluid channel and further into the fluid transfer device.

[0045] In use, the mechanical connector may be in fluid communication with the proximal channel section of the elongated fluid channel so as to provide a fluid transfer from the channel aperture Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 of the elongated fluid channel through the fluid channel towards and into the proximal channel section. Depending on the type of fluid transfer device the mechanical connector may be also used to provide a fluid transfer from the fluid transfer device into the proximal channel section towards the distal channel section and through the channel aperture into the interior of the injection vial.

[0046] Since the movable part is longitudinally movable relative to the adapter body there can be provided an adjustable longitudinal position of the channel aperture inside the injection vial when the elongated fluid channel has penetrated the pierceable stopper of the injection vial and when the adapter body is engaged with the barrel head or when the adapter body is fastened to the barrel of the injection vial.

[0047] By adjustably moving the movable part of the vial adapter relative to the adapter body there can be provided a longitudinal alignment of the channel aperture of the fluid channel with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper. In other words, a penetration depth of the fluid channel extending through the top wall of the adapter body and extending through the pierceable stopper of the vial can be adjusted such that a longitudinal distance between the channel aperture and the inside surface of the pierceable stopper is minimized.

[0048] In some examples a longitudinal distance between the channel aperture of the fluid channel of the movable part and the inside surface of the pierceable stopper of the injection vial can be minimized to zero. Hence, the channel aperture of the fluid channel may be flush, e.g., in a transverse direction, with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper.

[0049] In further examples the channel aperture may even longitudinally overlap with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper. In this way, it can be even guaranteed, that the channel aperture, through which the liquid medicament can be withdrawn from the cavity of the injection vial, is at a lower most longitudinal position when the injection vial with the vial adapter attached thereto is in an inverted configuration, i.e. an upside-down configuration, for withdrawing the liquid medicament from the injection vial.

[0050] In this way and by aligning the channel aperture of the fluid channel of the movable part of the vial adapter to the inside surface of the pierceable stopper the entirety of the medicament can be rather easily withdrawn into the channel aperture and through the fluid channel towards the mechanical connector of the movable part and further into an injection device or other external device configured for receiving the liquid medicament or liquid substance originally contained inside the injection vial. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0051] In some examples the movable part is longitudinally movable relative to the adapter body within a limited longitudinal extent, which is large enough to compensate for eventual manufacturing and assembly tolerances of the barrel, the vial adapter and the mutual assembly of the vial adapter and the barrel of the injection vial.

[0052] In some examples the maximum longitudinal displacement between the movable part and the adapter body is less than 1 cm, less than 8 mm or less than 5 mm.

[0053] Moreover, the adapter body and the movable part may be non-detachably connected. The movable part may be movable in a longitudinal direction relative to the adapter body within a limited range, wherein the limited range is governed or determined by manufacturing tolerances and / or assembly tolerances of at least one of the vial adapter, the injection vial and the pierceable stopper.

[0054] In further examples the movable part is not only adjustably movable relative to the adapter body along the longitudinal direction. It may be variably movable and variably fixable relative to the adapter body.

[0055] In some examples the movable part may be continuously movable relative to the adapter body along the longitudinal direction. The movable part may be fixable relative to the adapter body in any longitudinal position relative to the movable part.

[0056] In this way, the channel aperture of the elongated fluid channel of the movable part may not only temporarily align or overlap with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper but may also be fixed relative to the adapter body and hence to the pierceable stopper in any of the adjustable longitudinal positions relative to the movable part and / or relative to the pierceable stopper. In this way, the channel aperture of the fluid channel can be fixed relative to the pierceable stopper and / or relative to the adapter body such that the aligned position or arrangement of the channel aperture at or with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper can be maintained during the process of withdrawal of the liquid content from the injection vial.

[0057] In this way, the vial adapter can be configured to compensate for eventual manufacturing tolerances and / or assembly tolerances of at least one of the injection vial, the barrel, the barrel head, the dimensions or position of the pierceable stopper and manufacturing or assembly tolerances of the vial adapter itself. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0058] According to a further example the movable part is movable relative to the adapter body along the longitudinal direction through user interaction. Hence, the movement of the movable part relative to the adapter body can be user-induced and / or may be user-controlled. In this way, a user is given the possibility to manually adjust the longitudinal position of the movable part relative to the adapter body, thereby manually and individually adjusting the longitudinal position of the channel aperture relative to the inside surface of the pierceable stopper when the adapter body is fixed or fastened to the barrel head of the barrel of the injection vial.

[0059] In this way, the vial adapter provides a user-controllable or user-inducible manual adjustment of the longitudinal position of the movable part and hence of the channel aperture relative to the adapter body and hence relative to the inside surface of the pierceable stopper.

[0060] A user may induce a longitudinal movement of the movable part relative to the adapter body in the course or after fixing the adapter body to the barrel or barrel head of the injection vial. The limited longitudinal movability of the movable part relative to the adapter body and the possibility of fixing the movable part relative to the adapter body in any of the available longitudinal positions relative to the adapter body allows to arrange the channel aperture of the fluid channel in direct vicinity to the inside surface of the pierceable stopper, such that a longitudinal distance between the channel aperture of the elongated fluid channel and the inside surface of the pierceable stopper is minimized, or even eliminated.

[0061] According to a further example the adapter body comprises a longitudinally extending guiding structure along which the movable part is movably guided in the longitudinal direction. By way of the guiding structure the movable part can be guided in the longitudinal direction relative to the adapter body. Providing a guiding structure may provide a rather stable and tilt free longitudinal displacement of the movable part relative to the adapter body.

[0062] According to a further example the base part of the movable part is in longitudinal sliding engagement with the guiding structure of the adapter body. By way of a sliding engagement there can be likewise provided a variable and longitudinally adjustable variable position of the movable part relative to the adapter body.

[0063] A sliding engagement may likewise provide a user-adjustable or user-controllable longitudinal position adjustment for the movable part relative to the adapter body and / or relative to the pierceable stopper, e.g., in order to obtain a desirable alignment of the channel aperture of the fluid channel of the movable part and the inside surface of the pierceable stopper of the injection vial. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0064] A sliding engagement between the guiding structure and the movable part may be rather easily controllable. Moreover, a sliding engagement may provide a rather intuitive handling for varying the longitudinal position of the channel aperture of the fluid channel of the movable part relative to the adapter body and / or relative to the pierceable stopper of the injection vial.

[0065] In a further example the guiding structure comprises a bottom facing in a longitudinal proximal direction. The movable part, e.g., the base part of the movable part, comprises an abutment face facing in a longitudinal distal direction. The bottom may be at least in sections complementary shaped to the abutment face of the movable part; and vice versa. In this way, the bottom may provide a stop face configured or operable to delimit a distally directed displacement or movement of the movable part relative to the adapter body.

[0066] In a further example the guiding structure comprises a guiding receptacle in which the movable part is movably guided in a longitudinal direction. The guiding receptacle may circumferentially enclose at least a portion of the movable part. This may provide an improved guiding functionality.

[0067] Moreover, by way of a guiding receptacle, the outer dimensions of the movable part can be minimized so as to fit into the interior of the guiding receptacle. The guiding receptacle and hence the guiding structure of the adapter body allows for a rather conventional design of the receptacle of the adapter body, such that a fastening to the injection vial can be provided in a rather conventional and well-established manner. At the same time a guiding receptacle provides a rather efficient and straightforward longitudinal guiding for the movable part relative to the adapter body.

[0068] According to a further example the guiding receptacle of the adapter body comprises a receptacle sidewall. The base part of the movable part comprises a base part sidewall with an outside surface, which is at least in sections complementary shaped to the receptacle sidewall. The receptacle sidewall comprises an inside facing surface that is complementary shaped to the outside surface of the base part sidewall. In this way, there can be provided a rather well- defined, stable and easily controllable longitudinal sliding displacement of the movable part relative to the adapter body. The receptacle sidewall of the guiding receptacle and hence of the adapter body may provide a rather tilt free and hence a rather precise longitudinal displacement of the movable part relative to the adapter body.

[0069] In further examples the guiding receptacle of the adapter body can be delimited by the bottom in Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 a distal direction. Hence, the receptacle sidewall and of the guiding receptacle may be confined in the distal direction by the bottom of the guiding structure.

[0070] According to a further example the movable part comprises the abutment face facing in a longitudinal distal direction. The abutment face of the movable part may be opposite the bottom of the guiding structure or guiding receptacle.

[0071] According to a further example the abutment face of the movable part is configured to longitudinally abut with the bottom of the guiding receptacle. In this way, the distally directed longitudinal displacement of the movable part relative to the adapter body can be delimited by a longitudinal engagement or abutment of the bottom of the guiding receptacle with the abutment face or bottom face of the movable part.

[0072] According to a further example the guiding structure comprises a recess, e.g., a through recess. The movable part comprises a projection extending laterally or radially into or through the recess. The recess may be provided in the receptacle sidewall. It may comprise a longitudinal extent that defines a maximum longitudinal displacement of the movable part relative to the adapter body. Hence, the projection of the movable part may be guided in and / or along the recess of the guiding structure.

[0073] In a further example the movable part may be provided with a recess and the guiding structure may be provided with a projection being longitudinally guided in the recess.

[0074] Accordingly, the mutual engagement between the projection of the movable part and the recess of the body structure may provide a well-defined non-rotative and longitudinal guiding of the movable part with respect to the guiding structure and hence with respect to the adapter body.

[0075] Accordingly, and with further examples the recess or through recess may be delimited in a distal direction by a distal stop face and may be further delimited in a proximal direction by a proximal stop face. The proximal stop face faces distally and the distally located stop face faces proximally.

[0076] Accordingly, the projection, e.g., of the movable part, which extends radially into or through the recess may longitudinally abut with one of the distal or proximal stop faces as defined by the recess when the lateral projection is urged in a longitudinal distal or longitudinal proximal direction by a user or by a biasing element. In this way there can be provided a limited longitudinal displacement of the movable part relative to the adapter body, which is large Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 enough to compensate manufacturing tolerances as well as assembly tolerances of the injection vial and the vial adapter.

[0077] In examples wherein the movable part is in longitudinal sliding engagement with the guiding receptacle the movable part may comprise a gliding surface, e.g., on its base part's sidewall and the guiding receptacle may comprise an inside facing complementary shaped gliding or sliding surface in order to provide a smooth longitudinal gliding or sliding of the movable part relative to the adapter body. Here, the base part of the movable part may longitudinally slide or glide relative to the receptacle sidewall of the guiding receptacle of the adapter body.

[0078] In a further example the recess of the guiding structure and / or of the receptacle sidewall of the adapter body comprises a distally facing stop face. The recess may be further delimited in a proximal direction by the distally facing stop face. The distally facing stop face is configured to longitudinally abut with the projection, e.g., with a proximally facing stop face of the projection.

[0079] Likewise, the recess may also comprise a proximally facing stop face. It may be delimited by the proximally facing stop face. The proximally facing stop face is configured to longitudinally abut with the projection with a distally facing and complementary shaped stop face of the projection. In this way, the longitudinal displacement of the movable part relative to the adapter body can be precisely delimited by the longitudinal extent of the recess located on an inside of the receptacle sidewall and / or extending through the receptacle sidewall.

[0080] According to a further example the vial adapter comprises a biasing element operably engaged with the adapter body and the movable part and configured to apply a biasing force between the adapter body and the movable part, which biasing force is effective to displace the movable part in a longitudinal direction relative to the adapter body. Here, the biasing force may be effective to displace the movable part in a longitudinal proximal direction relative to the adapter body.

[0081] In this way, the movable part may be movable against the action of the biasing member in a longitudinal distal direction relative to the adapter body. Such a distally directed displacement or movement of the movable part may be induced by a user, e.g., applying a distally directed pressure or force effect onto the movable part, which may be connected with a fluid transfer device. Upon release of the movable part the movable part may be subject to a proximally directed movement under the action of the relaxing biasing element.

[0082] In some examples, the biasing element may comprise a compression spring. Here, a distal end of the compression spring may be mechanically engaged, in abutment with or connected to the Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 adapter body, e.g., with the bottom of the guiding structure or with the bottom of the guiding receptacle. A proximal end of the compression spring may be mechanically engaged, in abutment with or connected to the movable part, e.g., to the base part of the movable part.

[0083] In some examples, the biasing element, e.g., the spring element may be arranged between the bottom of the guiding structure or guiding receptacle and the abutment face of the movable part. The biasing element is configured to apply a biasing force between the adapter body and the movable part to increase a longitudinal distance between the abutment face and the bottom. In some examples the biasing element may be in direct abutment with both or with at least one of the abutment face of the movable part and the bottom of the guiding receptacle and hence of the adapter body.

[0084] In this way, the biasing element is operable to urge the movable part in a proximal direction. Accordingly, the movable part may be movable relative to the adapter body either under the action of the biasing element or against the action of the biasing element.

[0085] In some examples the biasing element is configured to apply a force between the adapter body and the movable part to increase a longitudinal distance of the abutment face of the movable part and the bottom of the guiding receptacle of the adapter body.

[0086] When mounted or fastened to the injection vial the biasing element serves to displace the movable part and hence the tipped cannula with its channel aperture in a proximal direction towards the pierceable stopper. In this way, the biasing element serves to move the movable part with the fluid channel and the channel aperture towards or even into the pierceable stopper in the proximal direction, i.e. in a direction facing outwardly as seen from the interior of the injection vial.

[0087] According to a further example the biasing element comprises a helical spring. The helical spring may be in longitudinal abutment with the bottom of the guiding receptacle and it may be further in longitudinal abutment with the abutment face of the movable part. Hence, a first longitudinal end of the helical spring may be in longitudinal abutment with the bottom of the guiding receptacle. An opposite longitudinal end of the helical spring may be in abutment with the abutment face of the movable part.

[0088] According to a further example the bottom of the guiding structure or guiding receptacle comprises a distally extending recess to receive a distal end or distal section of the biasing element, e.g., of the helical spring. In this way and when the helical spring is compressed the Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 abutment face of the movable part may directly engage or directly get in abutment with the bottom of the guiding structure surrounding the distally extending recess. In this way there can be provided a direct and tilt-free mutual abutment between the movable part, i.e., the base part and the bottom as provided by the adapter body.

[0089] According to a further example the abutment face may comprise a proximally extending recess or groove sized and / or shaped to receive a proximal end or proximal section of the biasing element. In this way, there can be also provided or improved a direct mutual longitudinal abutment between the bottom of the adapter body and the abutment face of the movable part.

[0090] Moreover, by way of a distally extending recess and / or by way of a proximally extending recess, the biasing element can be easily attached or fixed to any one or to both of the movable part and the adapter body.

[0091] The helical spring may be implemented as a compression spring. Here, a compression force acting in a longitudinal direction may be required to reduce the longitudinal extent of the helical spring. In the absence of such a compression force, the helical spring may be configured to increase the longitudinal distance between the abutment face of the movable part and the bottom of the guiding receptacle.

[0092] According to a further example the tipped cannula comprises an elongated channel sidewall and a channel projection. The elongated channel sidewall confines the fluid channel. The channel projection protrudes laterally or radially outwardly from the elongated channel sidewall and comprises a proximally facing abutment face to abut longitudinally with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper. Here, the channel projection may provide a well-defined longitudinal abutment with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper after having penetrated the pierceable stopper in a distal direction.

[0093] The channel projection with its proximally facing abutment face serves to prevent an uncontrolled movement or disengagement of the fluid channel relative to the pierceable stopper in a proximal direction. It provides a well-defined longitudinal abutment of the channel aperture at the inside surface of the pierceable stopper and hence provides a rather precise alignment of the channel aperture with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper.

[0094] In some examples, the channel projection substantially aligns or coincides with the channel aperture as seen in a longitudinal direction. The channel projection may adjoin the channel aperture or it may be provided at an opposite side of the channel sidewall compared to the Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 channel aperture. By way of the channel projection an uncontrolled movement of the fluid channel through the pierceable stopper in a proximal direction can be effectively prevented. Rather, and by way of the channel projection there can be provided a well-defined longitudinal position of the fluid channel relative to the pierceable stopper such that the channel aperture aligns with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper, which alignment enables a complete or nearly complete withdrawal of the liquid contained of the injection vial.

[0095] In some examples and when the movable part is displaceable in a distal direction relative to the adapter body against the action of the biasing element, after penetration of the pierceable stopper and after a release of the movable part the biasing element may provide or induce a proximally directed displacement of the movable part relative to the adapter body until the channel projection engages or abuts with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper. Here, the proximally facing abutment face of the channel projection may define an end position or alignment position, which is automatically reached by the movable part under the effect of the relaxing biasing element. When reaching the end position or alignment position the channel aperture is flush with or is aligned with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper.

[0096] In order to provide a precise alignment of the channel aperture with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper it may be intended to move the movable part in a proximal direction relative to the adapter body after fastening or engaging the adapter body with the barrel head until the channel projection abuts or engages with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper.

[0097] According to a further example the channel projection is longitudinally aligned with the channel aperture. Hence, the longitudinal position of the channel projection may overlap or may substantially coincide with a longitudinal position of the channel aperture. In this way, it can be provided that the channel aperture, which is in fluid communication with the elongated fluid channel of the movable part, is longitudinally aligned with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper.

[0098] In an upside-down configuration, wherein the barrel head and hence the pierceable stopper is located at a lower most portion of the injection vial it can be provided that the entire liquid content or liquid substance inside the injection vial can be withdrawn through the channel aperture and through the elongated fluid channel towards the mechanical connector of the vial adapter and hence to an injection device or other kind of a medicament container connectable to the mechanical connector.

[0099] According to a further example the channel projection is an integral part or portion of the tipped Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 cannula.

[0100] Accordingly, and in some examples the channel aperture of the elongated fluid channel and the channel projection may substantially overlap or coincide. In this way, there can be provided a rather straightforward alignment of the channel aperture with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper, namely when a longitudinal abutment of the proximally facing abutment face of the channel projection engages or gets in longitudinal abutment with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper of the injection vial.

[0101] According to a further example the channel projection of the fluid channel and hence of the movable part comprises or forms a barb to engage with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper. A barb may comprise a beveled section facing in a longitudinal distal direction and may further comprise a stepped portion and hence a proximally facing abutment face protruding radially outwardly from the channel sidewall of the fluid channel and being operable to engage, e.g., to abut with the distally facing inside surface of the pierceable stopper. The stepped portion may be provided at a proximal end of the beveled section.

[0102] In some examples there may be provided only one channel projection protruding radially outwardly from the channel sidewall. In other examples there may be provided two channel projections projecting radially outwardly on opposite sides of the channel sidewall. Here, first and second channel projections may protrude diametrically opposite as seen in a lateral or transverse direction of the elongated channel sidewall. In further examples there may be even provided three or four radially outwardly protruding channel projections, which may equally abut with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper.

[0103] The numerous channel projections may be equally and / or equiangularly spaced around the outer circumference of the elongated channel sidewall. The numerous channel projections may be located at a common or at the same longitudinal position of the channel sidewall.

[0104] According to a further example the at least one channel projection is configured to fix the vial adapter to the injection vial at least with regards to the proximal longitudinal direction. When the channel projection gets in proximally facing abutment with the distally facing inside surface of the pierceable stopper after having penetrated the pierceable stopper, the channel projection and hence the entire cannula as well as the fluid channel and the base part, e.g., rigidly connected to the fluid channel, may be secured to the pierceable stopper with regard to a proximally directed displacement. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0105] In this way, there can be provided a proximal fastening for the movable part to the pierceable stopper. Since the movable part is longitudinally displaceable relative to the adapter body only within predefined margins and / or within a predefined range there can be achieved a respective fastening of the entire movable part as well as of the adapter body to the injection vial via the channel projection. Here and for this it may not be necessary that the sidewall of the adapter body is mechanically fastened or fixed to the barrel head. It may be sufficient when the receptacle of the adapter body, which is formed or delimited by the inside surface or distal side of the top wall and the sidewall of the adapter body, is sized to receive at least a portion of the barrel head of the injection vial. A longitudinal fastening of the vial adapter to the injection vial may be exclusively or predominately provided by the channel projection of the elongated fluid channel of the movable part.

[0106] Insofar and according to another example the sidewall of the adapter body of the vial adapter may be void of a mechanical fastener or snap feature that would be configured to engage with the barrel head.

[0107] According to another example the tipped cannula comprises or constitutes a spike. The spike comprises a tipped end facing in a distal direction. The spike and hence the tipped end of the cannula is configured to penetrate the pierceable stopper. The tipped end is configured to pierce and / or to penetrate the pierceable stopper of the injection vial during assembling or attaching the vial adapter, i.e. the adapter body, to the barrel head of the injection vial.

[0108] The cannula may comprise a spike, which may form or constitute the distal end and hence the tipped distal end of the tipped cannula. Proximally adjacent to the spike the cannula may comprise the cylindrically shaped and longitudinally extending channel sidewall, which surrounds and confines the fluid channel. In a transition section between the spike and the channel sidewall there may be provided the channel projection. In some examples, a proximal end of the spike may be provided with or may form the channel projection.

[0109] The spike and hence the tipped end of the cannula, may protrude from a lateral or transverse central portion of the top wall of the adapter body in a longitudinal distal direction. It may extend substantially parallel to the sidewall of the adapter body. It may be located coaxial with sidewall of the adapter body, which may be of tubular shape.

[0110] According to a further example the movable part of the vial adapter comprises the tipped and elongated cannula, through which the fluid channel extends longitudinally. The elongated cannula may comprise a kind of a mechanically rigid needle with a tipped end and provided with Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 the channel aperture at a well-defined offset from the tipped end.

[0111] According to some examples the tipped cannula comprises a beveled section located longitudinally between the channel aperture and the tipped distal end. The beveled section may be of frustoconical shape. Here, the channel projection may be formed by a radially stepped down portion at the proximal end of the frustoconically shaped beveled section. This way, there may be provided or formed a somewhat annular or circularly shaped channel projection at the proximal end of the frustoconically shaped beveled section of the tipped cannula.

[0112] With an annularly or circularly shaped channel projection there may be also provided a respective annularly or circularly shaped proximally facing abutment face, which may engage or longitudinally abut with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper over its entire surface. In this way, there can be provided a reliable, tilt-free and rather precise longitudinal abutment between the channel projection and the inside surface of the pierceable stopper.

[0113] According to a further example the tipped cannula comprises a cylindrical section, which is located longitudinally between the beveled section and the channel projection. With this example, the beveled section, e.g., of frustoconical shape may adjoin the cylindrical section, wherein the cylindrical section is provided with the channel aperture. The channel aperture may be provided in the sidewall of the cylindrical section and may extend radially inwardly from an outside surface of the cylindrical section into the distal section of the fluid channel, which may be co-axial with the channel sidewall. Providing of the channel aperture in the cylindrical section proximal to the beveled section of the tipped distal end of the tipped cannula may be easy to manufacture and to implement.

[0114] The cylindrical section may terminate by a radially stepped down section, which is provided with the proximally facing abutment of the channel projection.

[0115] With some examples, the channel projection may even adjoin into the proximally facing abutment face of the channel projection. Here, the channel projection may interrupt or intersect the annularly shaped or circumferentially extending proximal abutment face of the channel projection. In this way, it can be guaranteed that a radial outer end of the channel aperture is closed by the distally facing inside surface of the pierceable stopper. Here, the alignment between the inside surface of the pierceable stopper and the channel aperture can be improved, which allows for a complete and restless emptying of the content of the barrel of the injection vial when in an upside-down configuration or upside-down orientation, in which the pierceable stopper is located at a bottom most end of the interior of the barrel. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0116] In some examples the elongated cannula may protrude distally from the base part of the movable part. It may protrude distally from an insert portion of the movable part. In this way, the distal portion of the elongated cannula may extend or may protrude distally from the distal side of the top wall into the receptacle as formed or confined by the top wall and the sidewall of the adapter body. Accordingly, and upon assembly of the vial adapter to the barrel head of the injection vial the distal end of the elongated cannula may directly penetrate the pierceable stopper of the injection vial.

[0117] According to a further example the sidewall of the adapter body of the vial adapter comprises numerous resilient sidewall segments that are separated from each other by an elongated slit extending in a longitudinal direction. The resilient sidewall segments may be deflectable or radially outwardly. There may be provided with inwardly protruding snap features and their distal ends to engage with a stepped down neck portion adjoining the barrel head of the barrel of the injection vial.

[0118] The resilient sidewall segments may provide a snap fit engagement of the receptacle of the adapter body with the barrel head of the injection vial. In some examples the distal side of the top wall of the adapter body may directly engage or abut with a distal end face of the barrel head of the injection vial. When reaching such an abutment configuration, the resilient sidewall segments of the sidewall of the adapter body may relax into or towards their initial configuration thereby mechanically engaging with the barrel head and fixing the adapter body to the injection vial.

[0119] According to a further example the resilient sidewall segments comprise radially inwardly protruding snap features, e.g., at their distal end to mechanically engage with a complementary shaped barrel head of the barrel of the injection vial when reaching a final assembly configuration, in which the pierceable stopper of the injection vial may be pierced by the tipped cannula such that the channel aperture of the elongated fluid channel of the movable part aligns or is flush with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper.

[0120] Any geometric tolerances that may eventually lead to a longitudinal distance or to a longitudinal gap between the longitudinal position of the channel aperture of the fluid channel and the inside surface of the pierceable stopper may be easily compensated by a subsequent or simultaneous longitudinal displacement of the movable part relative to the adapter body. Once a desired longitudinal position of the channel aperture relative to the pierceable stopper has been reached, the movable part may be immobilized to the adapter body. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0121] Immobilization of the movable part relative to the adapter body may be generally obtained in a number of different ways. In some examples the guiding receptacle of the adapter body and the base part of the movable part may be in frictional engagement. Here, a longitudinal displacement, e.g., a sliding displacement of the movable part relative to the adapter body may require application of a respective longitudinally directed force effect, which is larger than a predefined break loose force of the frictional engagement between the guiding receptacle and the movable part.

[0122] In further examples a longitudinal distal placement may be effectively prevented and the movable part may be fixed with regards to the longitudinal direction relative to the adapter body by making use of the above-described channel projection of the elongated fluid channel, which may be kept in longitudinal abutment with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper by a restoring force or holding force as provided by the relaxing biasing element.

[0123] In another aspect the present disclosure also relates to an injection kit for administering a liquid medicament. The injection kit comprises an injection vial. The injection vial comprises a barrel to accommodate a liquid medicament or a liquid substance. The injection vial further comprises a barrel head with an outlet. The outlet is sealed by a pierceable stopper, such as a septum.

[0124] The pierceable stopper comprises an inside surface delimiting or adjoining the inner cavity of the injection vial that is filled or provided with the liquid substance.

[0125] The injection kit further comprises a vial adapter as described above, which is configured for fastening to the barrel head of the injection vial. The vial adapter comprises a movable part with the tipped cannula, the movable part is longitudinally movable relative to an adapter body, wherein the adapter body is configured for a direct fastening or direct engagement with the barrel head. The movable part may be adjustably movable in a longitudinal direction relative to the adapter body to align the channel aperture of the cannula with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper. Then and when reaching a final assembly configuration, the vial adapter with the injection vial may be held or rotated in an upside-down configuration, wherein the pierceable stopper faces downwardly.

[0126] Since the channel aperture of the elongated fluid channel of the movable part of the vial adapter is aligned with the inside surface or is flush with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper, the entirety of the liquid substance, e.g., the liquid medicament can be withdrawn from the cavity of the injection vial. The entire content of the injection vial may be thus withdrawn through the fluid channel into a drug delivery device or some other storage device connected to the mechanical Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 connector of the movable part of the vial adapter.

[0127] Insofar, and since the injection kit comprises a vial adapter as described above, all features, benefits and effects as described above in connection with the vial adapter equally apply to the injection kit; and vice versa.

[0128] According to a further example the injection kit comprises a fluid transfer device, e.g., a syringe or the like injection device, which is configured for fastening to the mechanical connector of the movable part. The fluid transfer device may be configured to withdraw the liquid medicament from an interior of the barrel through the fluid channel of the movable part of the vial adapter. The fluid transfer device may comprise an injection device, which may comprise a syringe. The fluid transfer device may be also operable to introduce a liquid into the interior of the injection barrel. Here, the fluid transfer device may also comprise a syringe configured to expel a liquid substance through the vial adapter into the interior of the injection vial. In some examples the fluid transfer device may comprise a pump device or the like fluid expelling device.

[0129] In some examples of the vial adapter the mechanical connector comprises a standardized fluid transferring connector, such as a Luer-type connector. The fluid transfer device or injection device may comprise a complementary shaped standardized counter connector to establish a fluid transferring mutual connection between the fluid transfer device and the mechanical connector of the movable part of the vial adapter. In some examples the mechanical connector of the movable part comprises a conically shaped receptacle to receive a complementary shaped conically shaped protrusion of the fluid transfer device; or vice versa. The mechanical connector is in fluid transferring connection with the fluid channel. In some examples the fluid channel may merge in a receptacle of the mechanical connector or, which may be confined by a conically shaped connector sidewall.

[0130] In another aspect the present disclosure also relates to a method of withdrawing a liquid substance, e.g., a liquid medicament, contained in an injection vial. The injection vial comprises a barrel and a barrel head with an outlet, wherein the outlet is sealed by a pierceable stopper and wherein the pierceable stopper comprises an inside surface. The method comprises steps of engaging a vial adapter with the barrel head of the injection vial and penetrating the pierceable stopper of the injection vial in a longitudinal distal direction thereby urging a tipped cannula of the vial adapter through the pierceable stopper. The tipped cannula comprises an elongated fluid channel, a tipped distal end and a channel aperture, which may be located proximally offset from the tipped distal end. The pierceable stopper is penetrated by the tipped distal end of the cannula. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0131] Thereafter or concurrently with penetrating the pierceable stopper the channel aperture of the elongated fluid channel is aligned with an inside surface or is flush with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper by moving the movable part of the vial adapter relative to the base part of the vial adapter with respect to the longitudinal direction.

[0132] The vial adapter may comprise an adapter body and a movable part, wherein the movable part comprises the elongated fluid channel with the distal channel aperture. The movable part is movable relative to the adapter body along the longitudinal direction.

[0133] According to a further example the adapter body of the vial adapter may be engaged, fastened or fixed to the barrel head of the barrel of the injection vial without penetrating the pierceable stopper. Penetration of the pierceable stopper may be executed in a separate and / or subsequent step of moving or urging the movable part of the vial adapter relative to the adapter body in a longitudinal direction, e.g., in a longitudinal distal direction.

[0134] Simultaneously and / or subsequently it is conceivable that the movable part is adjustably moved relative to the adapter body in a longitudinal distal direction or longitudinal proximal direction to align the channel aperture of the fluid channel of the movable part with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper of the injection vial. With an appropriate alignment between the inside surface of the pierceable stopper and the channel aperture of the fluid channel there can be provided an almost complete or entirely complete emptying of the injection vial.

[0135] Accordingly and in a further step, the liquid substance located inside the injection vial is completely or almost completely withdrawn from the interior of the injection vial via the channel aperture. For this, the elongated fluid channel may be connected to a fluid transfer device, e.g., implemented as one of a pump device and a syringe, configured to apply a negative pressure to the elongated fluid channel effective to withdraw the liquid substance from the interior of the injection vial.

[0136] In some examples the method is executable by making use of a vial adapter as described above. Insofar, all features, effects and benefits as described above in connection with the vial adapter equally apply to the method of withdrawing the liquid medicament contained in the injection vial; and vice versa.

[0137] In this way the vial adapter is used to individually adjust a longitudinal position of the channel aperture of the elongated fluid channel in such a way that the channel aperture is flush with or Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 aligns with an inside facing surface of the pierceable stopper, which allows and supports an almost complete and / or almost restless emptying of the injection vial through the elongated fluid channel.

[0138] In a further aspect the present disclosure also relates to a method of administering an injectable medicament, the method comprising the steps of using a vial adapter for connecting to an injection vial, wherein the injection vial comprising a barrel and a barrel head with an outlet, wherein the outlet is sealed by a pierceable stopper and wherein the pierceable stopper comprises an inside surface. The vial adapter comprises an adapter body comprising a top wall and a sidewall, the sidewall projecting from the top wall in a longitudinal direction to form a receptacle with a distal side of the top wall, wherein the receptacle is configured to receive at least a portion of the barrel head.

[0139] The vial adapter further comprises a movable part comprising a base part and a tipped cannula fixed to the base part and extending through the top wall into the receptacle, e.g., along the longitudinal direction. The tipped cannula comprises an elongated fluid channel, a tipped distal end to penetrate the pierceable stopper and a channel aperture located inside the receptacle and located proximally offset from the tipped distal end.

[0140] The movable part and / or its base part may be adjustably movable relative to the adapter body along the longitudinal direction to align the channel aperture with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper.

[0141] In some examples the method of administering the injectable medicament includes using of a vial adapter and / or of a vial as described above. Insofar, all features, effects and benefits as described above equally apply to the method of administering the injectable medicament.

[0142] In a further example the method of administering the injectable medicament comprises the step of connecting the vial adapter to the injection vial.

[0143] In a further example the method of administering the injectable medicament comprises the step of moving the movable part of the vial adapter relative to the adapter body along the longitudinal direction and aligning the channel aperture of the tipped cannula with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper. In some examples the movable part of the vial adapter is moved in the longitudinal direction relative to the adapter body such that the channel aperture is flush with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper or slightly protrudes from the inside surface of the pierceable stopper. In this way, the entirety of a liquid substance or of a liquid medicament can Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 be withdrawn from the interior of the barrel of the vial.

[0144] In the present context the terms proximal and distal are used to distinguish between opposite longitudinal directions with regard to a piercing direction along which the stopper of the injection vial can be or is to be penetrated. Here, the distal direction determines a direction along which the stopper is penetrable from the outside and the proximal direction defines a direction along which the liquid substance can be withdrawn from the cavity of the injection vial.

[0145] The terms “drug” or “medicament” are used synonymously herein and describe a pharmaceutical formulation containing one or more active pharmaceutical ingredients or pharmaceutically acceptable salts or solvates thereof, and optionally a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. An active pharmaceutical ingredient (“API”), in the broadest terms, is a chemical structure that has a biological effect on humans or animals. In pharmacology, a drug or medicament is used in the treatment, cure, prevention, or diagnosis of disease or used to otherwise enhance physical or mental well-being. A drug or medicament may be used for a limited duration, or on a regular basis for chronic disorders.

[0146] As described below, a drug or medicament can include at least one API, or combinations thereof, in various types of formulations, for the treatment of one or more diseases. Examples of API may include small molecules having a molecular weight of 500 Da or less; polypeptides, peptides and proteins (e g., hormones, growth factors, antibodies, antibody fragments, and enzymes); carbohydrates and polysaccharides; and nucleic acids, double or single stranded DNA (including naked and cDNA), RNA, antisense nucleic acids such as antisense DNA and RNA, small interfering RNA (siRNA), ribozymes, genes, and oligonucleotides. Nucleic acids may be incorporated into molecular delivery systems such as vectors, plasmids, or liposomes. Mixtures of one or more drugs are also contemplated.

[0147] The drug or medicament may be contained in a primary package or “drug container” adapted for use with a drug delivery device. The drug container may be, e.g., a cartridge, syringe, reservoir, or other solid or flexible vessel configured to provide a suitable chamber for storage (e.g., shorter long-term storage) of one or more drugs. For example, in some instances, the chamber may be designed to store a drug for at least one day (e.g., 1 to at least 30 days). In some instances, the chamber may be designed to store a drug for about 1 month to about 2 years. Storage may occur at room temperature (e.g., about 20°C), or refrigerated temperatures (e.g., from about - 4°C to about 4°C). In some instances, the drug container may be or may include a dualchamber cartridge configured to store two or more components of the pharmaceutical formulation to-be-administered (e.g., an API and a diluent, or two different drugs) separately, Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 one in each chamber. In such instances, the two chambers of the dual-chamber cartridge may be configured to allow mixing between the two or more components prior to and / or during dispensing into the human or animal body. For example, the two chambers may be configured such that they are in fluid communication with each other (e.g., by way of a conduit between the two chambers) and allow mixing of the two components when desired by a user prior to dispensing. Alternatively or in addition, the two chambers may be configured to allow mixing as the components are being dispensed into the human or animal body.

[0148] The drugs or medicaments contained in the drug delivery devices as described herein can be used for the treatment and / or prophylaxis of many different types of medical disorders.

[0149] Examples of disorders include, e.g., diabetes mellitus or complications associated with diabetes mellitus such as diabetic retinopathy, thromboembolism disorders such as deep vein or pulmonary thromboembolism. Further examples of disorders are acute coronary syndrome (ACS), angina, myocardial infarction, cancer, macular degeneration, inflammation, hay fever, atherosclerosis and / or rheumatoid arthritis. Examples of APIs and drugs are those as described in handbooks such as Rote Liste 2014, for example, without limitation, main groups 12 (antidiabetic drugs) or 86 (oncology drugs), and Merck Index, 15th edition.

[0150] Examples of APIs for the treatment and / or prophylaxis of type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus or complications associated with type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus include an insulin, e.g., human insulin, or a human insulin analogue or derivative, a glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1), GLP-1 analogues or GLP-1 receptor agonists, or an analogue or derivative thereof, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitor, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof, or any mixture thereof. As used herein, the terms “analogue" and “derivative” refers to a polypeptide which has a molecular structure which formally can be derived from the structure of a naturally occurring peptide, for example that of human insulin, by deleting and / or exchanging at least one amino acid residue occurring in the naturally occurring peptide and / or by adding at least one amino acid residue. The added and / or exchanged amino acid residue can either be codable amino acid residues or other naturally occurring residues or purely synthetic amino acid residues. Insulin analogues are also referred to as "insulin receptor ligands". In particular, the term ..derivative” refers to a polypeptide which has a molecular structure which formally can be derived from the structure of a naturally occurring peptide, for example that of human insulin, in which one or more organic substituent (e.g. a fatty acid) is bound to one or more of the amino acids. Optionally, one or more amino acids occurring in the naturally occurring peptide may have been deleted and / or replaced by other amino acids, including non-codeable amino acids, or amino acids, including non-codeable, have been added to the naturally occurring peptide. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0151] Examples of insulin analogues are Gly(A21), Arg(B31), Arg(B32) human insulin (insulin glargine); Lys(B3), Glu(B29) human insulin (insulin glulisine); Lys(B28), Pro(B29) human insulin (insulin lispro); Asp(B28) human insulin (insulin aspart); human insulin, wherein proline in position B28 is replaced by Asp, Lys, Leu, Vai or Ala and wherein in position B29 Lys may be replaced by Pro; Ala(B26) human insulin; Des(B28-B30) human insulin; Des(B27) human insulin and Des(B30) human insulin.

[0152] Examples of insulin derivatives are, for example, B29-N-myristoyl-des(B30) human insulin, Lys(B29) (N- tetradecanoyl)-des(B30) human insulin (insulin detemir, Levemir®); B29-N- palmitoyl-des(B30) human insulin; B29-N-myristoyl human insulin; B29-N-palmitoyl human insulin; B28-N-myristoyl LysB28ProB29 human insulin; B28-N-palmitoyl-LysB28ProB29 human insulin; B30-N-myristoyl-ThrB29LysB30 human insulin; B30-N-palmitoyl- ThrB29LysB30 human insulin; B29-N-(N-palmitoyl-gamma-glutamyl)-des(B30) human insulin, B29-N-omega- carboxypentadecanoyl-gamma-L-glutamyl-des(B30) human insulin (insulin degludec, Tresiba®); B29-N-(N-lithocholyl-gamma-glutamyl)-des(B30) human insulin; B29-N-(co- carboxyheptadecanoyl)-des(B30) human insulin and B29-N-(w-carboxyheptadecanoyl) human insulin.

[0153] Examples of GLP-1 , GLP-1 analogues and GLP-1 receptor agonists are, for example, Lixisenatide (Lyxumia®), Exenatide (Exendin-4, Byetta®, Bydureon®, a 39 amino acid peptide which is produced by the salivary glands of the Gila monster), Liraglutide (Victoza®), Semaglutide, Taspoglutide, Albiglutide (Syncria®), Dulaglutide (Trulicity®) , rExendin-4, CJC- 1134-PC, PB-1023, TTP-054, Langlenatide / HM-11260C (Efpeglenatide), HM-15211 , CM-3, GLP-1 Eligen, ORMD-0901 , NN-9423, NN-9709, NN-9924, NN-9926, NN-9927, Nodexen, Viador-GLP-1 , CVX-096, ZYOG-1 , ZYD-1 , GSK-2374697, DA-3091 , MAR-701, MAR709, ZP- 2929, ZP-3022, ZP-DI-70, TT-401 (Pegapamodtide), BHM-034. MOD-6030, CAM-2036, DA- 15864, ARI-2651 , ARI-2255, Tirzepatide (LY3298176), Bamadutide (SAR425899), Exenatide- XTEN and Glucagon-Xten.

[0154] An example of an oligonucleotide is, for example: mipomersen sodium (Kynamro®), a cholesterol-reducing antisense therapeutic for the treatment of familial hypercholesterolemia or RG012 for the treatment of Alport syndrome.

[0155] Examples of DPP4 inhibitors are Linagliptin, Vildagliptin, Sitagliptin, Denagliptin, Saxagliptin, Berberine. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0156] Examples of hormones include hypophysis hormones or hypothalamus hormones or regulatory active peptides and their antagonists, such as Gonadotropine (Follitropin, Lutropin, Choriongonadotropin, Menotropin), Somatropine (Somatropin), Desmopressin, Terlipressin, Gonadorelin, Triptorelin, Leuprorelin, Buserelin, Nafarelin, and Goserelin.

[0157] Examples of polysaccharides include a glucosaminoglycane, a hyaluronic acid, a heparin, a low molecular weight heparin or an ultra-low molecular weight heparin or a derivative thereof, or a sulphated polysaccharide, e.g., a poly-sulphated form of the above-mentioned polysaccharides, and / or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. An example of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of a poly-sulphated low molecular weight heparin is enoxaparin sodium. An example of a hyaluronic acid derivative is Hylan G-F 20 (Synvisc®), a sodium hyaluronate.

[0158] The term “antibody”, as used herein, refers to an immunoglobulin molecule or an antigenbinding portion thereof. Examples of antigen-binding portions of immunoglobulin molecules include F(ab) and F(ab')2 fragments, which retain the ability to bind antigen. The antibody can be polyclonal, monoclonal, recombinant, chimeric, de-immunized or humanized, fully human, non-human, (e.g., murine), or single chain antibody. In some embodiments, the antibody has effector function and can fix complement. In some embodiments, the antibody has reduced or no ability to bind an Fc receptor. For example, the antibody can be an isotype or subtype, an antibody fragment or mutant, which does not support binding to an Fc receptor, e.g., it has a mutagenized or deleted Fc receptor binding region. The term antibody also includes an antigen-binding molecule based on tetravalent bispecific tandem immunoglobulins (TBTI) and / or a dual variable region antibody-like binding protein having cross-over binding region orientation (CODV).

[0159] The terms “fragment” or “antibody fragment” refer to a polypeptide derived from an antibody polypeptide molecule (e.g., an antibody heavy and / or light chain polypeptide) that does not comprise a full-length antibody polypeptide, but that still comprises at least a portion of a full- length antibody polypeptide that is capable of binding to an antigen. Antibody fragments can comprise a cleaved portion of a full length antibody polypeptide, although the term is not limited to such cleaved fragments. Antibody fragments that are useful in the present invention include, for example, Fab fragments, F(ab')2 fragments, scFv (single-chain Fv) fragments, linear antibodies, monospecific or multispecific antibody fragments such as bispecific, trispecific, tetraspecific and multispecific antibodies (e.g., diabodies, triabodies, tetrabodies), monovalent or multivalent antibody fragments such as bivalent, trivalent, tetravalent and multivalent antibodies, minibodies, chelating recombinant antibodies, tribodies or bibodies, intrabodies, small modular immunopharmaceuticals (SMIP), binding-domain immunoglobulin fusion proteins, Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 camelized antibodies, and immunoglobulin single variable domains. Additional examples of antigen-binding antibody fragments are known in the art.

[0160] The term “immunoglobulin single variable domain” (ISV), interchangeably used with “single variable domain”, defines immunoglobulin molecules wherein the antigen binding site is present on, and formed by, a single immunoglobulin domain. As such, immunoglobulin single variable domains are capable of specifically binding to an epitope of the antigen without pairing with an additional immunoglobulin variable domain. The binding site of an immunoglobulin single variable domain is formed by a single heavy chain variable domain (VH domain or VHH domain) or a single light chain variable domain (VL domain). Hence, the antigen binding site of an immunoglobulin single variable domain is formed by no more than three CDRs.

[0161] An immunoglobulin single variable domain (ISV) can be a heavy chain ISV, such as a VH (derived from a conventional four-chain antibody), or VHH (derived from a heavy-chain antibody), including a camelized VH or humanized VHH. For example, the immunoglobulin single variable domain may be a (single) domain antibody, a "dAb" or dAb or a Nanobody® ISV (such as a VHH, including a humanized VHH or camelized VH) or a suitable fragment thereof. [Note: Nanobody® is a registered trademark of Ablynx N.V.]; other single variable domains, or any suitable fragment of any one thereof.

[0162] “VHH domains”, also known as VHHs, VHH antibody fragments, and VHH antibodies, have originally been described as the antigen binding immunoglobulin variable domain of “heavy chain antibodies” (i.e., of “antibodies devoid of light chains”; Hamers-Casterman et al. 1993 (Nature 363: 446-448). The term “VHH domain” has been chosen in order to distinguish these variable domains from the heavy chain variable domains that are present in conventional 4- chain antibodies (which are referred to herein as “VH domains”) and from the light chain variable domains that are present in conventional 4-chain antibodies (which are referred to herein as “VL domains”). For a further description of VHH’s, reference is made to the review article by Muyldermans 2001 (Reviews in Molecular Biotechnology 74: 277-302).

[0163] For the term “dAb’s” and “domain antibody”, reference is for example made to Ward et al. 1989 (Nature 341 : 544), to Holt et al. 2003 (Trends Biotechnol. 21 : 484); as well as to WO 2004 / 068820, WO 2006 / 030220, WO 2006 / 003388. It should also be noted that, although less preferred in the context of the present invention because they are not of mammalian origin, single variable domains can be derived from certain species of shark (for example, the so-called “IgNAR domains”, see for example WO 2005 / 18629). Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0164] The terms “Complementarity-determining region” or “CDR” refer to short polypeptide sequences within the variable region of both heavy and light chain polypeptides that are primarily responsible for mediating specific antigen recognition. The term “framework region” refers to amino acid sequences within the variable region of both heavy and light chain polypeptides that are not CDR sequences, and are primarily responsible for maintaining correct positioning of the CDR sequences to permit antigen binding. Although the framework regions themselves typically do not directly participate in antigen binding, as is known in the art, certain residues within the framework regions of certain antibodies can directly participate in antigen binding or can affect the ability of one or more amino acids in CDRs to interact with antigen.

[0165] Examples of antibodies are anti PCSK-9 mAb (e.g., Alirocumab), anti IL-6 mAb (e.g., Sarilumab), and anti IL-4 mAb (e.g., Dupilumab).

[0166] Pharmaceutically acceptable salts of any API described herein are also contemplated for use in a drug or medicament in a drug delivery device. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts are for example acid addition salts and basic salts.

[0167] In some examples the injection vial is filled or provided with a liquid medicament used in gene therapy for ophthalmic application. Such medicaments may have to be administered in rather small doses, e.g., comprising only a few pl. In addition, such medicaments might be rather costly and should therefore be used entirely.

[0168] Those of skill in the art will understand that modifications (additions and / or removals) of various components of the APIs, formulations, apparatuses, methods, systems and embodiments described herein may be made without departing from the full scope and spirit of the present invention, which encompass such modifications and any and all equivalents thereof.

[0169] An example drug delivery device may involve a needle-based injection system as described in Table 1 of section 5.2 of ISO 11608-1 :2014(E). As described in ISO 11608-1 :2014(E), needlebased injection systems may be broadly distinguished into multi-dose container systems and single-dose (with partial or full evacuation) container systems. The container may be a replaceable container or an integrated non-replaceable container.

[0170] As further described in ISO 11608-1 :2014(E), a multi-dose container system may involve a needle-based injection device with a replaceable container. In such a system, each container holds multiple doses, the size of which may be fixed or variable (pre-set by the user). Another multi-dose container system may involve a needle-based injection device with an integrated Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 non-replaceable container. In such a system, each container holds multiple doses, the size of which may be fixed or variable (pre-set by the user).

[0171] As further described in ISO 11608-1 :2014(E), a single-dose container system may involve a needle-based injection device with a replaceable container. In one example for such a system, each container holds a single dose, whereby the entire deliverable volume is expelled (full evacuation). In a further example, each container holds a single dose, whereby a portion of the deliverable volume is expelled (partial evacuation). As also described in ISO 11608-1 :2014(E), a single-dose container system may involve a needle-based injection device with an integrated non-replaceable container. In one example for such a system, each container holds a single dose, whereby the entire deliverable volume is expelled (full evacuation). In a further example, each container holds a single dose, whereby a portion of the deliverable volume is expelled (partial evacuation).

[0172] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0173] In the following, numerous examples of a vial adapter configured for fastening to an injection vial as well as an injection kit comprising such a vial adapter will become apparent in greater detail by making reference to the drawings, in which:

[0174] Fig. 1 illustrates an injection kit comprising a vial adapter and an injection vial,

[0175] Fig. 2 shows the vial adapter according to Fig. 1 attached to the injection vial and with a movable part of the vial adapter in a distal end position,

[0176] Fig. 3 shows the vial adapter of Fig. 2 with the movable part of the vial adapter in an alignment position,

[0177] Fig. 4 is a cross-section through the vial adapter fixed to the injection vial with the movable part in the distal end position according to Fig. 2,

[0178] Fig. 5 is a cross-section through the vial adapter fixed to the injection vial with the movable part in the alignment position according to Fig. 3,

[0179] Fig. 6 is an enlarged view of a channel aperture of the movable part in the distal end position according to Figs. 2 and 4,

[0180] Fig. 7 is an enlarged view of the channel aperture of the movable part in the alignment position according to Figs. 3 and 5,

[0181] Fig. 8 is a cross section through the injection kit according to Fig. 1 ,

[0182] Fig. 9 is a perspective illustration of the injection kit according to Fig. 3,

[0183] Fig. 10 is a perspective and partial cross-sectional illustration of the vial adapter, Fig. 11 is an isolated perspective illustration of the movable part, Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0184] Fig. 12 is an enlarged view of a tipped distal end of a cannula of the movable part,

[0185] Fig. 13 is a flow chart of a method of withdrawing a liquid medicament contained in an injection vial, and

[0186] Fig. 14 is a further cross section of the injection kit before assembly.

[0187] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0188] Figs. 1-12 and 14 illustrate an example of a vial adapter 10, which is configured for fastening or engaging with an injection vial 80. The vial adapter 10 fastened or connected to the injection vial 80 may form or constitute an injection kit 100 for administering a liquid substance such as a liquid medicament 6. The injection vial 80 comprises a barrel 81 , e.g., of tubular shape. The barrel 81 may comprise a radially stepped down barrel head 82 towards a proximal or upper end. The barrel head 82 comprises or forms an outlet 83, through which a liquid content, e.g., a medicament 6 located inside a cavity 86 of the injection vial 80 can be withdrawn. The outlet 83 is sealed by a pierceable stopper 84. The stopper 84 may comprise a pierceable septum made of a thermoplastic material or elastomeric material, such as bromobutyl rubber. The stopper 84 may be attached and / or fixed to the outlet 83 by way of a crimped cap 87, e.g., made of metal.

[0189] The vial adapter 10 comprises an adapter body 11 and a movable part 40, which is longitudinally displaceable relative to the adapter body 11. The adapter body 11 comprises a top wall 12 and a sidewall 14 projecting from an outer edge or outer circumference of the top wall 12 in a longitudinal direction (z) to form a receptacle 15 with a distal side 13 of the top wall 12. Hence, the top wall 12 or adapter body 11 comprises a distal side 13, e.g., facing in a distal direction 8, and comprises an opposite side, e.g., a proximal side 16 facing in a proximal direction 9.

[0190] The movable part 40 may comprise a cannula 54 with a tipped end 55, which is configured to pierce and / or to penetrate the pierceable stopper 84.

[0191] In some examples the injection kit 100 is pre-assembled, such that the vial adapter 10 is already fixed to the injection vial 80. In such a pre-assembly configuration the adapter body 11 of the vial adapter 10 may be fastened or fixed to the barrel head 82 of the injection vial 80 without piercing the pierceable seal. Here, the movable part 40 may be in a proximal end position, in which the tipped end 55 of the cannula 54 is located outside the pierceable stopper 84 without piercing the stopper 84.

[0192] In the pre-assembly configuration it may be then only required that the movable part 40 is Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 moved in the distal direction 8 relative to the adapter body 11 so as to pierce and / or to penetrate the pierceable stopper 84.

[0193] In other examples, the injection kit 100 comprises the injection vial 80 and the vial adapter 10 as described herein, wherein the vial adapter 10 is wrapped or packaged separately from the injection vial 80. Here, a user equipped with the injection kit 100 may be then initially obliged to connect the adapter body 11 of the vial adapter 10 to the barrel head 82 of the injection vial 80. Thereafter, or concurrent with a fastening of the adapter body 11 to the barrel head 82 the movable part 40 may be subject to a movement in the longitudinal distal direction 8 relative to the adapter body 11 so as to pierce and / or to penetrate the pierceable stopper 84.

[0194] The sidewall 14 of the adapter body 11 comprises numerous resiliently deformable sidewall segments 17 that are separated by elongated slits 18 extending in the longitudinal distal direction 8. The slits 18 adjoin a distal end or extend to the distal end of the sidewall 14 such that respective distal ends of the sidewall segments 17 are separated from each other and are thus allowed to flex in a radial direction, i.e. transverse or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (z).

[0195] Specifically, the distal ends of the sidewall segments 17 form a skirt 19, which is configured to engage with the barrel head 82 of the injection vial 80. As it is particularly shown in the crosssection of Fig. 8 on an inside surface near the distal end of the sidewall segments 17 there are provided radially inwardly protruding snap features 17a, which adjoin a distally facing beveled section 17b, which upon a sliding engagement with the barrel head 82 are configured to induce a laterally or radially outwardly directed flexing motion of the individual sidewall segments 17 until the barrel head 82 reaches a final assembly position inside the receptacle 15.

[0196] When reaching a final assembly configuration, the sidewall segments 17 and their snap features 17a engage with an undercut or recessed section of the barrel head 82 to form a form fitting longitudinal fastening or fixing of the vial adapter 10 to the injection vial 80.

[0197] The movable part 40 of the vial adapter 10 comprises a base part 41 and an elongated tipped cannula 54, which is long enough to extend through the top wall 12 of the adapter body 11 along the longitudinal direction (z). The cannula 54 comprises a fluid channel 50 with a proximal channel section 52 merging into a mechanical connector 70. The fluid channel 50 further comprises a distal channel section 51 with a channel aperture 53.

[0198] The movable part 40 is adjustably movable relative to the adapter body 11 along the Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 longitudinal direction (z) to align the channel aperture 53 with an inside surface 85 of the pierceable stopper 84 as illustrated in Figs. 5 and 7.

[0199] Specifically, the movable part 40 is adjustably movable relative to the adapter body 11 to reach an alignment configuration of the channel aperture 53 with the inside surface 85 of the pierceable stopper 84 as shown in Fig. 5. The adjustable displacement of the movable part 40 relative to the adapter body 11 allows and supports a complete or nearly complete withdrawal of the liquid substance from an interior volume of the cavity 86 of the injection vial 80. Moreover, and by way of the individually adjustable longitudinal displacement of the movable part 40 relative to the adapter body 11 there can be provided an effective compensation of manufacturing tolerances and / or assembly tolerances of the injection vial 80, the pierceable stopper 84 and the vial adapter 10 or their mutual assembly.

[0200] By adjusting or modifying the longitudinal position of the movable part 40 relative to the adapter body 11 a number of different longitudinal positions of the movable part 40 relative to the adapter body 11 can be obtained in principle. Also, the movable part 40 may be immobilized relative to the adapter body 11 so as to maintain the alignment position of the channel aperture 53 with the inside surface 85 of the pierceable stopper 84.

[0201] The elongated and tipped cannula 54 may comprise a rather stiff and compression resistant channel sidewall 60. The cannula 54 may extend through the base part 41 of the movable part 40. Here, the base part 41 comprises or forms an insert 43, which is longitudinally displaceable in a guiding structure 20, specifically in a guiding receptacle 21 of the adapter body 11. The guiding structure 20 may comprise a guiding receptacle 21 defining a movement or displacement direction for the movement of the base part 41 relative to the guiding structure 20. The base part 41 may be slidably engageable with the guiding structure 20. It may be slidable relative to the guiding structure 20 in the longitudinal distal direction 8 and in the longitudinal proximal direction 9.

[0202] The guiding structure 20 may comprise a guiding receptacle 21 , in which the base part 41 is longitudinally guided. The guiding receptacle 21 may be confined or defined by a receptacle sidewall 22. The receptacle sidewall 22 may be of cylindrical shape. It may be open towards the proximal direction 9 and may be confined in the distal direction 8 by a bottom 26.

[0203] The base part 41 comprises an outer base part sidewall 42 with an outside surface 45 that is complementary shaped to an inside surface 25 of the receptacle sidewall 22 of the guiding receptacle 21 of the adapter body 11. The receptacle sidewall 22 may protrude proximally from Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 the top wall 12. The receptacle sidewall 22 is of cylindrical shape and protrudes from a transverse midsection of the proximal side 16 of the adapter body 11. The receptacle sidewall 22 may be provided with an inside facing gliding surface 25 to slidably engage with a complementary shaped outside facing gliding surface 45 of the movable part 40. The gliding surface 45 and the gliding surface 25 may be of cylindrical shape to enable a smooth longitudinal sliding or gliding motion of the movable part 40 relative to the adapter body 11.

[0204] In a final configuration, as shown in Fig. 5, and in which the channel aperture 53 aligns or is flush with the inside surface 85 of the stopper 84, the entire assembly of vial adapter 10 and injection vial 80, may be oriented upside-down to withdraw the liquid content or medicament 6 from the cavity 86 of the injection vial 80. Since the channel aperture 53 is flush or is aligned with the inside surface 85 of the pierceable stopper 84 the entirety of the liquid substance can be withdrawn from the cavity 86 of the injection vial 80.

[0205] The top wall 12 may be intersected by a through bore 23 in the longitudinal direction (z). The through bore may be sized and configured to provide a sliding displacement of the cannula 54 therethrough in the longitudinal direction (z). Hence, a distal end of the through bore 23 may merge into the receptacle 15. A proximal end of the through bore 23 may merge into the bottom 26 or into a recess 66 provided in the bottom 26.

[0206] The movable part 40 is provided with a mechanical connector 70 at its proximal end, which allows for a liquid transferring coupling or fastening with an injection device 110 as shown in Fig. 14. The mechanical connector 70 comprises a connector sidewall 72 confining a connector receptacle 71. The connector receptacle 71 may be in direct fluid communication with the proximal channel section 52. The connector sidewall 72 may comprise a tapered structure, e.g., configured to engage in a liquid tight or liquid transferring manner with a complementary shaped counter connector 115 of an injection device 110, such as a syringe 111.

[0207] The injection device 110 may comprise a syringe barrel 112 in which a plunger 114 is longitudinally movable. The syringe barrel 112 may terminate in the distal direction 8 by the counter connector 115, e.g., implemented as a Luer-type connector and configured to mechanically engage with the inside of the connector sidewall 72 of the mechanical connector 70.

[0208] Optionally, the mechanical connector 70 may be provided with a mechanical fastening structure 73. The fastening structure 73 may comprise a threaded portion or threaded section to engage with a complementary shaped counter threaded portion of the injection device 110. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0209] A proximal portion of proximal end section of the movable part 40, e.g., provided with or implemented as the mechanical connector 70 may protrude proximally from the open-ended guiding receptacle 21 and the receptacle sidewall 22. In this way, the proximal section of the movable part 40 is directly accessible from outside the vial adapter 10. Here, a distally directed displacement of the movable part 40 relative to the adapter body 11 can be easily induced by a user applying distally directed pressure or force effect onto the proximally protruding proximal end section of movable part 40.

[0210] As it is particularly shown in Figs. 2, 3, and 9 the receptacle sidewall 22 is provided with an elongated recess 27, e.g, implemented as a through recess 27 and extending in the longitudinal direction (z). The through recess 27 is delimited in the distal direction 8 by a distal stop face 28 and is delimited in the proximal direction 9 by a proximal stop face 29. The movable part 40, in particular its base part 41 comprises a projection 47 extending laterally or radially into or through the through recess 27.

[0211] As shown in Figs. 10 and 11 the lateral projection 47 comprises a distally facing stop face 48 and a proximally facing stop face 49 to make a respective distally or proximally directed contact with the oppositely located stop faces 28, 29 of the through recess 27, respectively. In this way there is provided a limited longitudinal displacement of the movable part 40 relative to the adapter body 11 , which is sufficient to compensate for any manufacturing tolerances or assembly tolerances and which is large enough to obtain or to arrive in an alignment configuration of the channel aperture 53 with the inside surface 85 of the pierceable stopper 84.

[0212] The recess 27 is implemented as a through recess, the longitudinal position of the lateral projection 47 may directly visually indicate the longitudinal position of the movable part 40 relative to the adapter body 11.

[0213] As it is further apparent from Fig. 5 the guiding receptacle 21 may be delimited in the distal direction 8 by a bottom 26. The movable part 40, specifically its base part 41 comprises a complementary shaped abutment face 46 facing in the distal direction 8. In the configuration of Fig. 4 the abutment face 46 of the movable part 40 is in longitudinal abutment with the bottom 26. In the configuration of Fig. 5 the movable part 40 has been displaced in the proximal direction 9 relative to the guiding receptacle 21 . Thus, there is obtained a gap between the abutment face 46 and the bottom 26.

[0214] The cannula 54 comprises an elongated tubularly-shaped channel sidewall 60, which confines Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 the fluid channel 50 in circumferential or radial direction. At a distal end of the fluid channel 50 the cannula 54 comprises a radially outwardly protruding channel projection 56. The channel projection 56 is provided with a proximally facing abutment face 57, which is configured to make contact or to abut with the inside surface 85 of the pierceable stopper 84.

[0215] At the channel projection 56, there is provided the channel aperture 53, which is in permanent fluid communication with the fluid channel 50.

[0216] As particularly illustrated in Figs. 10-12 the channel projection 56 is provided at a proximal end of a radially widened cylindrical section 58 of the cannula 54. The cylindrical section 58 terminates in the proximal direction 9 with a stepped down flange-like abutment face 57, which forms the proximally facing channel projection 56. The abutment face 57 may comprise an annular or circumferential shape. It may be intersected or interrupted by the channel aperture 53, which extends radially from the distal channel section 51 towards and into an outside surface 59 of the cylindrical section 58.

[0217] Distally to the cylindrical section 58 there is provided a tapered and hence a beveled section 62 forming the tipped end 55 or terminating in the tipped end 55 of the cannula 54. The distal end section of the cannula 54 may form or constitute a spike 30, which is operable to penetrate and to pierce the pierceable stopper 84.

[0218] The entire cannula 54 may be made of a single piece. It may be made of a metallic material, e.g., stainless steel. The tipped distal end 55 of the cannula 54 is particularly configured to cut through or to pierce the pierceable stopper 84.

[0219] After having pierced the pierceable stopper 84 to a sufficient degree, e.g., by displacing the movable part 40 relative to the adapter body 11 in the distal direction 8 until the abutment face 46 engages or abuts with the bottom 26 and / or until the stop face 48 abuts with the stop face 28 such that the entire distal end 55 of the cannula 54 has entered the cavity 86 of the barrel 81 there may arise a longitudinal gap or longitudinal distance between the channel projection 56 and the inside surface 85 of the pierceable stopper 84 as shown in Fig. 4.

[0220] By moving the movable part 40 upwardly, i.e. in the proximal direction 9, the channel projection 56 is moved accordingly until its abutment face 57 gets in longitudinal abutment with the inside surface 85 of the pierceable stopper 84. This configuration is schematically illustrated in Fig. 5. The abutment face 57 and hence the channel projection 56 may be then longitudinally aligned with the channel aperture 53. In this way it can be provided that the channel aperture 53 Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 correctly and precisely aligns with the inside surface 85 of the pierceable stopper 84 as soon as an abutment configuration between the abutment face 57 and the inside surface 85 of the pierceable stopper 84 has been reached.

[0221] Generally, the channel projection 56 may comprise or may constitute a barb 61 or a barb feature, which is operable to prevent an uncontrolled withdrawal of the cannula out of the cavity 86 and hence through the pierceable stopper 84 in the proximal direction 9.

[0222] There is further provided a biasing element 64, which is operably engaged with the adapter body 11 and the movable part 40. The biasing element 64 may be implemented as a helical spring, a compression spring 65, or flexible member. It may be squeezable or biased in the longitudinal direction (z) to store mechanical energy and may release mechanical energy when relaxing and / or dilatating in the longitudinal direction (z).

[0223] The biasing element 64 may be configured to urge or to move the movable part 40 in the proximal direction 9 relative to the adapter body 11 .

[0224] In the course of assembly or deployment of the vial adapter 10 with the injection vial 80 the movable part 40 may be depressed manually, e.g., by a user, in the distal direction 8 in order to move the movable part 40 into a distal end configuration as illustrated in Figs. 2 and 4.

[0225] Upon release of the movable part 40, the biasing element 64 may be configured and operable to induce a proximally directed displacement of the movable part 40 relative to the adapter body 11 so as to bring the channel projection 56 and hence the proximally facing abutment face 57 of the cannula 54 in longitudinal abutment with the distally facing inside surface 85 of the pierceable stopper 84.

[0226] In some examples the biasing element 64 may be located or arranged between the distally facing abutment face 46 and the proximally facing bottom 26. The biasing element 64 comprises a helical spring 65, which may be in direct longitudinal abutment with the oppositely facing bottom 26 and the abutment face 46, respectively. The spring 65 serves to urge the movable part 40 upwardly, hence in the proximal direction 9.

[0227] In an initial configuration and before the vial adapter 10 is mounted or fastened to an injection vial 80 the spring 65 biases the movable part 40 in the proximal direction 9 such that the proximally facing stop face 49 of the projection 47 is in longitudinal abutment with the distally facing stop face 29 of the through recess 27 of the receptacle sidewall 22. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0228] In the presently illustrated example, the biasing element 64 is longitudinally clamped between the distally facing abutment face 46 and the proximally facing bottom 26. For ease of assembly and for providing a well-defined assembly and fixing of the biasing element 64 to at least one of the movable part 40 and the adapter body 11 there may be provided at least one recess 66, 68 for a longitudinal end section of the biasing element 64. As illustrated the bottom 26 comprises a longitudinal recess 66, e.g., in form of a cup-shaped receptacle extending from the bottom 26 in the distal direction 8. The lateral size or transverse cross-section of the recess 66 matches with the outer diameter or transverse cross-section of the distal end of the biasing element 64.

[0229] In this way, at least the distal end of the biasing element 64 can be longitudinally received in the recess 66. The through bore 23 of the top wall 12 and hence of the adapter body 11 merges into a central portion of the recess 66. Accordingly, the cannula 54 is guided coaxial with the cylindrically shaped biasing element 64. The cannula 54 extends longitudinally through the hollow structure of the biasing element 64.

[0230] For easy of assembly as well as for providing a well-defined longitudinal engagement or mechanical abutment between the movable part 40 and the biasing element 64 there may be also provided a recess 68 in the abutment face 46 of the movable part 40 and hence of the base part 41 of the movable part 40. The recess 68 may comprise an annular groove sized to receive the proximal end section of the biasing element 64.

[0231] In this way, opposite longitudinal ends of the biasing element 64 can be secured and / or fixed to the guiding structure 20 and hence to the bottom 26 as well as to the movable part 40, respectively.

[0232] In addition, providing of at least one recess 66, 68 in at least one of the bottom 26 and the abutment face 46 provides and enables a direct longitudinal abutment of the abutment face 46 and the bottom 26. In this way there can be provided a well-defined distal end position or distal stop position for a distally directed movement of the movable part 40 relative to the adapter body 11 .

[0233] When reaching the distal end position, as illustrated in Fig. 4, at least a radial outer section of the abutment face 46 may completely engage or completely abut with the complementary shaped proximally facing bottom 26. In this way there can be provided a well-defined and tilt- free mutual abutment between the movable part 40 and the adapter body 11. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0234] The cannula 54 may be implemented as a single-pieced metallic part. It may be made of stainless steel. The cannula 54 may be permanently fixed to the base part 41 of the movable part 40. The movable part 40 may consist of the cannula 54 and the base part 41 . The base part 41 may be implemented as a plastic component. It may comprise an injection molded plastic component. The base part 41 may be also implemented as a single-pieced or unitarily shaped movable component 40 of the vial adapter 10. The base part 41 may comprise a molded body 44 or may consist of a molded body 44, e.g., an injection molded plastic body 44.

[0235] The cannula 54 may be insert molded in the base part 41. This way, there can be provided a mutual fixing between the base part 41 and the cannula 54.

[0236] The proximal channel section 52 of the fluid channel 50 as formed or constituted by the cannula 54 merges into the connector receptacle 71 , which is provided at the proximal end of the base part 41 . In this way, there can be provided a rather direct fluid communication between the fluid channel 50 and the injection device 110 when duly connected to the mechanical connector 70.

[0237] Upon establishing a connection with the injection vial 80 or upon engaging the receptacle 15 of the adapter body 11 with the head 82 of the injection vial 80 the tipped end 55 of the cannula 54 may at least partially penetrate the pierceable stopper 84. During or for mutual engagement of the vial adapter 10 and the injection vial 80 the user may apply a distally directed pressure onto the movable part 40. In other configurations the user may grip the adapter body 11 outside the proximally protruding portion of the movable part 40. Then, the movable part 40 may be located in a proximal end position relative to the adapter body 11 since the biasing element 64 urges the movable part 40 in the proximal direction 9 relative to the adapter body 11 until the abutment face 49 engages the abutment face 29.

[0238] When the adapter body 11 reaches an engagement or fastening configuration with the barrel head 82, the tipped distal end 55 of the cannula may not yet have entirely penetrated the pierceable stopper 84. Here and by applying a distally directed pressure onto the movable part 40 the movable part 40 may be urged against the action of the biasing element 64 in the distal direction 8 to reach the distal end position or distal stop configuration as shown in Fig. 4. Here, the entirety of the distal spike or spike portion 30 of the cannula has passed through the pierceable stopper 84 and has reached a configuration, where the abutment face 57 and hence the channel aperture 53 is located even at a longitudinal distance from the inside surface 85 of the pierceable stopper 84 and inside the cavity 86.

[0239] Upon release of the movable part 40 the biasing element 64 serves to apply a proximally Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 directed pressure or driving force onto the movable part 40, which under the effect of the relaxing biasing element 64 starts to move in the proximal direction 9 until this movement is delimited or stopped by an abutment of the abutment face 57 with the inside surface 85 of the pierceable stopper 84 as shown in Fig. 5.

[0240] In this final or alignment configuration the channel aperture 53 is in perfect alignment with the inside surface 85 of the pierceable stopper 84. Now, and with an injection device 110 duly attached to the mechanical connector 70 the entire injection kit 100 comprising the vial adapter 10 and the injection vial 80 can be flipped or oriented upside-down by way of which the entirety of a liquid content, e.g., of a liquid medicament 6 located in the cavity 86 of the barrel 81 of the injection vial 80 can be withdrawn through the channel aperture 53 into and through the fluid channel 52 towards the mechanical connector 70 and into the injection device 110.

[0241] In the flow chart of Fig. 13 the individual steps of using the vial adapter 10 or the injection kit 100 as described herein for withdrawing a liquid medicament contained in an injection vial 80 are schematically described.

[0242] In a first step 200 a vial adapter 10 as described herein is attached to a barrel head 82 of an injection vial 80. Concurrently with the engagement of the vial adapter 10 with the barrel head 82 or thereafter in step 202 the pierceable stopper 84 is penetrated in the longitudinal distal direction 8 by the cannula 54.

[0243] Thereafter and in step 204 the channel aperture 53 of the fluid channel 50 is aligned with the inside surface 85 of the pierceable stopper 84 by adjustably moving the movable part 40 of the vial adapter 10 relative to the adapter body 11 with regard to the longitudinal direction (z). This may be obtained by a longitudinal sliding or gliding displacement of the movable part 40 relative to the adapter body 11 , which may be even assisted or supported or even entirely governed by a biasing element 64 as described above. Thereafter, or concurrently, and in an optional step 206 the vial adapter 10, which may be in a fluid transferring connection with the injection device 110 may be flipped upside down for withdrawal of the entirety of the liquid medicament 6 contained inside the cavity 86 of the barrel 81 of the injection vial 80. In this way, a restless emptying of the injection vial 80 can be achieved. Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0244] Reference Numbers

[0245] 6 liquid medicament

[0246] 8 distal direction

[0247] 9 proximal direction

[0248] 10 vial adapter

[0249] 11 adapter body

[0250] 12 top wall

[0251] 13 distal side

[0252] 14 sidewall

[0253] 15 receptacle

[0254] 16 proximal side

[0255] 17 sidewall segment

[0256] 17a snap feature

[0257] 17b beveled section

[0258] 18 slit

[0259] 19 skirt

[0260] 20 guiding structure

[0261] 21 guiding receptacle

[0262] 22 receptacle sidewall

[0263] 23 through bore

[0264] 25 gliding surface

[0265] 26 bottom

[0266] 27 through recess

[0267] 28 stop face

[0268] 29 stop face

[0269] 30 spike

[0270] 40 movable part

[0271] 41 base part

[0272] 42 sidewall

[0273] 43 insert

[0274] 44 molded body

[0275] 45 gliding surface

[0276] 46 abutment face

[0277] 47 lateral projection

[0278] 48 stop face

[0279] 49 stop face Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1

[0280] 50 fluid channel

[0281] 51 channel section

[0282] 52 channel section

[0283] 53 channel aperture

[0284] 54 cannula

[0285] 55 tipped end

[0286] 56 channel projection

[0287] 57 abutment face

[0288] 58 cylindrical section

[0289] 59 surface

[0290] 60 channel sidewall

[0291] 61 barb

[0292] 62 beveled section

[0293] 63 stepped portion

[0294] 64 biasing element

[0295] 65 spring

[0296] 70 mechanical connector

[0297] 71 connector receptacle

[0298] 72 connector sidewall

[0299] 73 fastening structure

[0300] 80 injection vial

[0301] 81 barrel

[0302] 82 barrel head

[0303] 83 outlet

[0304] 84 stopper

[0305] 85 inside surface

[0306] 86 cavity

[0307] 87 crimped cap

[0308] 100 injection kit

[0309] 110 injection device

[0310] 111 syringe

[0311] 112 syringe barrel

[0312] 114 plunger

[0313] 115 counter connector

Claims

Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1CLAIMS1. A vial adapter (10) for connecting to an injection vial (80), the injection vial (80) comprising a barrel (81) and a barrel head (82) with an outlet (83), wherein the outlet (83) is sealed by a pierceable stopper (84) and wherein the pierceable stopper (84) comprises an inside surface (85), the vial adapter (10) comprising: an adapter body (11) comprising a top wall (12) and a sidewall (14), the sidewall (14) projecting from the top wall (12) in a longitudinal direction (z) to form a receptacle (15) with a distal side (13) of the top wall (12), wherein the receptacle (15) is configured to receive at least a portion of the barrel head (82), a movable part (40) comprising a base part (41) and a tipped cannula (54) fixed to the base part (41), wherein the tipped cannula (54) extends through the top wall (12) into the receptacle (15), wherein the movable part (40) is movable relative to the adapter body (11) in the longitudinal direction (z), the tipped cannula (54) comprising: an elongated fluid channel (50), a tipped distal end (55) to penetrate the pierceable stopper (84), and a channel aperture (53) located inside the receptacle (15) and located proximally offset from the tipped distal end (55).

2. The vial adapter (10) according to claim 1 , wherein the tipped cannula (54) is made of a metallic material.

3. The vial adapter (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base part (41) comprises a molded body (44) and wherein the tipped cannula (54) is insert molded in the molded body (44).

4. The vial adapter (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the movable part (40) is adjustably movable relative to the adapter body (11) along the longitudinal direction (z) to align the channel aperture (53) with the inside surface (85) of the pierceable stopper (84).

5. The vial adapter (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adapter body (11) comprises a longitudinally extending guiding structure (20) along which the movable part (40) is movably guided in the longitudinal direction (z).Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO16. The vial adapter (10) according to claim 5, wherein the base part (41) of the movable part (40) is in longitudinal sliding engagement with the guiding structure (20) of the adapter body (11).

7. The vial adapter (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 5 or 6, wherein the guiding structure (20) comprises a bottom (26) facing in a longitudinal proximal direction (9) and wherein the movable part (40) comprises an abutment face (46) facing in a longitudinal distal direction (8).

8. The vial adapter (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 5 to 7, wherein the guiding structure (20) comprises a guiding receptacle (21) comprising a receptacle sidewall (22), wherein the base part (41) of the movable part (40) comprises a base part sidewall (42) with an outside surface, which at least in sections is complementary shaped to the receptacle sidewall (22).

9. The vial adapter (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 5 to 8, wherein the guiding structure (20) comprises a recess (27) and wherein the movable part (40) comprises a projection (47) extending laterally into or through the recess (27).

10. The vial adapter (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a biasing element (64) operably engaged with the adapter body (11) and the movable part (40) and configured to apply a biasing force between the adapter body (11) and the movable part (40) effective to displace the movable part (40) in a longitudinal proximal direction (9) relative to the adapter body (11).11 . The vial adapter (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tipped cannula (54) comprises an elongated channel sidewall (60) confining the fluid channel (50) and further comprising a channel projection (56) protruding laterally from the elongated channel sidewall (60) and comprising a proximally facing abutment face (57) to abut longitudinally with the inside surface (85) of the pierceable stopper (84).

12. The vial adapter (10) according to claim 11 , wherein the channel projection (56) is longitudinally aligned with the channel aperture (53).

13. The vial adapter (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tipped cannula (54) comprises a beveled section (62) located longitudinally between the channel aperture (53) and the tipped distal end (55).Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO114. An injection kit (100) for administering a liquid medicament, the injection kit (100) comprising: an injection vial (80), the injection vial (80) comprising a barrel (81) to accommodate a liquid medicament and comprising a barrel head (82) with an outlet (83), wherein the outlet (83) is sealed by a pierceable stopper (84) and wherein the pierceable stopper (84) comprises an inside surface (85), and a vial adapter (10) according to any one of the preceding claims.

15. A method of withdrawing a liquid medicament (6) contained in an injection vial (80), comprising a barrel (81) and a barrel head (82) with an outlet (83), wherein the outlet (83) is sealed by a pierceable stopper (84) and wherein the pierceable stopper (84) comprises an inside surface (85), the method comprising the steps of: engaging a vial adapter (10) with the barrel head (82), wherein the vial adapter (10) comprises an adapter body (11) and a movable part (40), the movable part comprising a tipped cannula (54) with an elongated fluid channel (50) a tipped distal end (55), and a channel aperture (53), penetrating the pierceable stopper (84) in a longitudinal distal direction (8) with the tipped distal end (55), and aligning the channel aperture (53) with the inside surface (85) of the pierceable stopper (84) by moving the movable part (40) relative to the base part (41) with regard to a longitudinal direction (z).

16. A method of administering an injectable medicament, the method comprising the steps of using a vial adapter (10) for connecting to an injection vial (80), wherein the injection vial (80) comprises a barrel (81) and a barrel head (82) with an outlet (83), wherein the outlet (83) is sealed by a pierceable stopper (84) and wherein the pierceable stopper (84) comprises an inside surface (85), and wherein the vial adapter (10) comprises: an adapter body (11) comprising a top wall (12) and a sidewall (14), the sidewall (14) projecting from the top wall (12) in a longitudinal direction (z) to form a receptacle (15) with a distal side (13) of the top wall (12), wherein the receptacle (15) is configured to receive at least a portion of the barrel head (82), a movable part (40) comprising a base part (41) and a tipped cannula (54) extending through the top wall (12) into the receptacle (15), the tipped cannula (54) comprising: an elongated fluid channel (50), a tipped distal end (55) to penetrate the pierceable stopper (84), andAttorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 a channel aperture (53) located inside the receptacle (15) and located proximally offset from the tipped distal end (55).

17. A vial adapter for connecting to an injection vial that comprises a barrel and a barrel head with an outlet, wherein the outlet is sealed by a pierceable stopper and wherein the pierceable stopper comprises an inside surface, the vial adapter comprising: an adapter body comprising a top wall and a sidewall projecting from the top wall in a longitudinal direction to form a receptacle with a distal side of the top wall, wherein the receptacle is configured to receive at least a portion of the barrel head; a movable part comprising a base part and a tipped cannula fixed to the base part, wherein the tipped canula extends through the top wall into the receptacle, wherein the movable part is movable relative to the adapter body in the longitudinal direction; wherein the tipped cannula comprises: an elongated fluid channel; a tipped distal end configured to penetrate the pierceable stopper; and a channel aperture located inside the receptacle and located proximally offset from the tipped distal end; and a biasing element operably engaged with the adapter body and the movable part and configured to apply a biasing force between the adapter body and the movable part to displace the movable part in a longitudinal proximal direction relative to the adapter body.

18. The vial adapter according to claim 17, wherein the tipped cannula comprises a metallic material.

19. The vial adapter according to claim 17, wherein the base part comprises a molded body and wherein the tipped cannula is insert molded in the molded body.

20. The vial adapter according to claim 17, wherein the movable part is adjustably movable relative to the adapter body along the longitudinal direction to align the channel aperture with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper.21 . The vial adapter according to claim 17, wherein the adapter body comprises a longitudinally extending guiding structure along which the movable part is movably guided in the longitudinal direction.

22. The vial adapter according to claim 21 , wherein the base part of the movable part is in longitudinal sliding engagement with the guiding structure of the adapter body.Attorney Docket: 46567-1645WO123. The vial adapter according to claim 21 , wherein the guiding structure comprises a bottom facing in the longitudinal proximal direction, and wherein the movable part comprises an abutment face facing in a longitudinal distal direction.

24. The vial adapter according to claim 21 , wherein the guiding structure comprises a guiding receptacle comprising a receptacle sidewall, and wherein the base part of the movable part comprises a base part sidewall with an outside surface, which is at least partially complementary shaped to the receptacle sidewall.

25. The vial adapter according to claim 21 , wherein the guiding structure comprises a recess, and wherein the movable part comprises a projection extending laterally into or through the recess.

26. The vial adapter according to claim 17, wherein the tipped cannula comprises: an elongated channel sidewall confining the fluid channel; and a channel projection protruding laterally from the elongated channel sidewall; wherein the channel projection comprises a proximally facing abutment face to abut longitudinally with the inside surface of the pierceable stopper.

27. The vial adapter according to claim 26, wherein the channel projection comprises an annular structure protruding radially outwardly from the elongated channel sidewall.

28. The vial adapter according to claim 26, wherein the channel projection is longitudinally aligned with the channel aperture.

29. The vial adapter according to claim 26, wherein the channel aperture adjoins the channel projection such that a transverse channel of the channel projection overlaps with the elongated fluid channel.

30. The vial adapter according to claim 17, wherein the tipped cannula comprises a beveled section located longitudinally between the channel aperture and the tipped distal end.31 . An injection kit for administering a liquid medicament, the injection kit comprising: an injection vial comprising: a barrel to accommodate a liquid medicament; and a barrel head with an outlet that is sealed by a pierceable stopper, wherein the pierceable stopper comprises an inside surface; andAttorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 a vial adapter comprising: an adapter body comprising a top wall and a sidewall projecting from the top wall in a longitudinal direction to form a receptacle with a distal side of the top wall, wherein the receptacle is configured to receive at least a portion of the barrel head; a movable part comprising a base part and a tipped cannula fixed to the base part, wherein the tipped canula extends through the top wall into the receptacle, wherein the movable part is movable relative to the adapter body in the longitudinal direction; wherein the tipped cannula comprises: an elongated fluid channel; a tipped distal end configured to penetrate the pierceable stopper; and a channel aperture located inside the receptacle and located proximally offset from the tipped distal end; and a biasing element operably engaged with the adapter body and the movable part and configured to apply a biasing force between the adapter body and the movable part to displace the movable part in a longitudinal proximal direction relative to the adapter body.

32. A method of withdrawing a liquid medicament contained in an injection vial, the method comprising: engaging a vial adapter with a barrel head of the injection vial, wherein the vial adapter comprises an adapter body, a biasing element, and a movable part, wherein the movable part comprises a base part, a tipped cannula with an elongated fluid channel, a tipped distal end, and a channel aperture, wherein the tipped cannula is fixed to the base part, wherein the biasing element is operably engaged with the adapter body and the movable part and configured to apply a biasing force between the adapter body and the movable part to displace the movable part in a longitudinal proximal direction relative to the adapter body; penetrating a pierceable stopper of the injection vial in a longitudinal distal direction with the tipped distal end, wherein the pierceable stopper seals an outlet of a barrel of the injection vial; and aligning the channel aperture with an inside surface of the pierceable stopper by moving the movable part relative to the base part in a longitudinal direction.

33. A method of administering an injectable medicament from an injection vial, the method comprising: using a vial adapter for connecting to the injection vial; wherein the injection vial comprises: a barrel; andAttorney Docket: 46567-1645WO1 a barrel head with an outlet that is sealed by a pierceable stopper, wherein the pierceable stopper comprises an inside surface; and wherein the vial adapter comprises: an adapter body comprising a top wall and a sidewall projecting from the top wall in a longitudinal direction to form a receptacle with a distal side of the top wall, wherein the receptacle is configured to receive at least a portion of the barrel head; a movable part comprising a base part and a tipped cannula extending through the top wall into the receptacle, wherein the tipped cannula comprises: an elongated fluid channel, a tipped distal end configured to penetrate the pierceable stopper, and a channel aperture located inside the receptacle and located proximally offset from the tipped distal end; and a biasing element operably engaged with the adapter body and the movable part and configured to apply a biasing force between the adapter body and the movable part to displace the movable part in a longitudinal proximal direction relative to the adapter body.

34. The vial adapter according to claim 17, wherein a proximal end of the tipped cannula terminates at the base part.

Images