Pressurised Inhaler Composition with Low-GWP Propellants
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pressurised dispensing containers, such as pharmaceutical metered dose aerosol inhaler devices, rely on propellants like HFA134a and HFA227ea, which have high global warming potential (GWP) and long atmospheric life (AL), necessitating the development of environmentally friendlier alternatives without compromising performance.
Innovation Solution
A composition comprising 3-10 wt.% monohydric alcohol, at least 85 wt.% HFA152a and/or HFO1234ze, and albuterol sulfate or levalbuterol tartrate, which maintains performance comparable to conventional devices even after storage, using lower GWP and shorter AL propellants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional propellants (HFA134a, HFA227ea) are used in pressurised dispensing containers, then reliable dispensing performance is achieved, but high global warming potential and long atmospheric life cause environmental harm
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters by replacing conventional HFA propellants with HFO1234ze and HFA152a propellants having different physical and chemical properties (lower GWP, shorter atmospheric life). The formulation adjusts propellant ratios and incorporates specific co-solvents to maintain dispensing performance while achieving environmentally friendly characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite propellant systems combining HFO1234ze and HFA152a in specific ratios, along with co-solvents like ethanol or isopropanol, to create a formulation that achieves both environmental compatibility and reliable dispensing performance. This composite approach allows optimization of both ecological and functional properties.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If alternative propellants with lower GWP and shorter AL are used, then environmental performance is improved, but formulation stability and dispensing consistency may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces co-solvents (ethanol, isopropanol, or other pharmaceutically acceptable alcohols) as intermediary substances that mediate between the alternative propellants and the active pharmaceutical ingredient. These intermediaries help maintain formulation stability, prevent precipitation, and ensure consistent dispensing performance throughout the product shelf life.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the concentration ratios of propellants and co-solvents to achieve stable formulations. By carefully controlling the proportions of HFO1234ze, HFA152a, and co-solvents, the formulation maintains physical and chemical stability during storage while delivering consistent doses throughout the product lifecycle.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If new propellant formulations are developed to reduce GWP and AL, then environmental sustainability is improved, but performance comparability to existing products becomes uncertain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent develops a propellant formulation that serves multiple functions: it provides the necessary propulsive force for metered dose delivery, maintains formulation stability, ensures consistent spray pattern, and achieves environmentally friendly characteristics. The universal applicability of this formulation allows it to work with existing MDI devices while meeting new environmental requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adjusts key formulation parameters including propellant ratios, co-solvent concentrations, and particle size distributions to match the performance characteristics of conventional formulations. By optimizing these parameters, the new formulation achieves comparable dosing accuracy, spray pattern quality, and device compatibility while using environmentally superior propellants.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The composition delivers consistent doses and maintains spray pattern and particle size distribution, ensuring comparable performance to existing products throughout the life of the inhaler, thereby providing a sustainable alternative for pharmaceutical metered dose aerosol inhaler devices.
Implementation Method 1
pharmaceutical metered dose aerosol inhaler devices
Implementation Method 2
pressurised dispensing container
Implementation Method 3
from 3 to 10 wt. % of a monohydric alcohol
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a composition for use in a pressurised dispensing container, the composition comprising:from 3 to 10 wt. % of a monohydric alcohol, based on the total weight of the composition;at least 85 wt. % HFA152a and/or HFO1234ze, based on the total weight of the composition; andalbuterol sulfate and/or levalbuterol tartrate.