Soft mist inhaler and its benefits
What is a soft mist inhaler?
The Soft Mist Inhaler (SMI) is a relatively new type of inhaler that generates a fine mist of medication without the use of a propellant. Its design produces a higher particle density compared to Metered Dose Inhalers (MDIs) and Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs), allowing more medication to reach the patient’s lungs. Additionally, the slower release of the mist reduces the need for significant inspiratory effort and enhances patient coordination, improving overall effectiveness.
How do soft mist inhalers work?
With the use of soft mist inhalers, there could be a closed system by integrating the medicine product’s container system, hence offering a significant deal of promise for treating conditions requiring short-term care, as well as for treating a wide range of respiratory disorders.
Soft mist inhalers utilise liquid formulations, unlike dry powder inhalers, enabling the use of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in liquid form. The device employs mechanical energy to force the liquid medication through a silicon chip with fine nozzles, converting the formulation into droplets that the patient can inhale.
When the patient uses the device, these droplets combine with the inhalation air stream to generate a slow-moving aerosol cloud that deposits a larger concentration of the medication in the patient’s lungs and a lesser amount in the back of the throat.
Benefits of soft mist inhalers
Soft mist inhalers offer several advantages, including the ability to deliver a lower dosage of medication due to more efficient lung deposition compared to metered-dose inhalers or dry powder inhalers. They also eliminate the need for a spacer. Compact and portable, soft mist inhalers are designed for easy self-administration, with patients simply pressing a button to release a pre-measured dose. Powered by mechanical energy from compressed springs, these devices ensure precise dosage with each use through the cartridge, facilitating accurate and reliable medication delivery.
Soft mist inhalers can also help make therapy administration simpler for patients—such as children and the elderly—who could have trouble with inhalation approaches, which will improve lung deposition.
Soft mist inhalers offer several advantages for drug developers. They are compatible with most biologic formulations, enhancing the shelf life and stability of complex biologics. Additionally, their gentle aerosolisation process, facilitated by specialised nozzles, reduces the risk of formulation degradation, making them ideal for sensitive medications.
The market for soft mist inhalers
According to a recent report, the global soft mist inhaler market is expected to reach USD 10.2 billion by 2026, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.7% from 2020. This growth is driven by the increasing prevalence of respiratory diseases, an ageing population, and heightened public health awareness. However, the sector faces challenges including high R&D and production costs, along with limited access to advanced technology.
photo: Micro injection moulding machines in cleanroom environment at Micro Systems
Micro Systems has the capabilities to support the design, development and manufacture of components for soft mist inhalers, using our extensive knowledge, experience and the latest technology, including MicroPower micro injection moulding machine.
Contact us today to discuss your soft mist inhaler project!
