Abstract: A method of delivering a protein, in particular insulin, to the lungs. The method is characterized in that an aerosolized mist of small particles is produced in an associated medicament delivery chamber, the distance from the chamber to the patient's mouth is set to slow the speed of aerosol particles entering the mouth and the flow rate through the chamber is regulated to a low rate of less than about 30 liters per minute. It has been found that administering insulin in accordance with the invention may advantageously produce a penetration of medication into the lungs of about 90%.

Abstract: Improved, compact apparatus for use in inhaling pharmaceutical aerosols. The apparatus increases aerosol deposition to the bronchiolus while it limits deposition in the oropharynx. The volumetric flow rate is limited by the use of orifices in the far end of the rigid holding chamber. The invention is also designed to make it easy for the patient to inhale the medication at the proper point in his respiratory cycle. Besides the rigid holding chamber the apparatus of the invention utilizes a unique and compact integrated flow meter to deliver to the patient a volume of unmedicated ambient air before the inhalation of the medicine containing aerosol. When the apparatus is not in use, it folds up, so that some of the integrated flow meter apparatus, and the mouthpiece are located inside the rigid holding chamber thereby minimizing the size of the device.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in inhaling pharmaceutical aerosols. The apparatus includes a mouthpiece and a rigid housing for receiving an aerosolized medicine. The rigid housing has one or more orifices which are spaced from the mouth piece so that flow through the housing is possible but is limited by the orifice(s) to a desired volumetric flow rate. The patient is aided by having the initial velocity of the aerosolized medicine reduced to zero by virtue of the initial delivery of the same to the housing interior, and by having the volumetric flow rate of the inhaled medication maintained below required limits thereby providing the conditions for optimal dosing. Further, the ability of the patient to inhale to total lung capacity with the flow through chamber enhances penetration of aerosolized drug to the lung periphery, and improves the ease of use for the patient.

Abstract: Apparatus for use in inhaling pharmaceutical aerosols. The apparatus comprises a mouthpiece for supplying a pharmaceutical composition to the mouth of a patient, a rigid chamber for holding the aerosol prior to inhalation, the rigid chamber having orifices to limit the flow of air therethrough, and a collapsable chamber from which the patient inhales unmedicated air prior to inhaling the medicated air from the rigid chamber. The apparatus increases medication delivered to the small peripheral bronchi, while it limits deposition in the oropharynx. The patient is aided in inhaling a volume of unmedicated air, after which he automatically begins to receive the aerosolized medication with the inhaled air. The volumetric flow rate of the inhaled medication is kept below required limits for optimal dosing.