Abstract: This invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition suitable for use in a dry powder inhaler comprising: (i) carrier particles; (ii) active particles on the surface of the carrier particles; and (iii) excipient on the surface of the carrier particles, wherein the excipient comprises phytosterol, phytosterol derivative, phytostanol, phytostanol derivative or combinations thereof. This invention relates to a method of applying the excipient particles onto the carrier particles.

Abstract: A formulation suitable for delivery from a pressurised metered dose inhaler comprises a hydrofluoroalkane liquid, which is pharmaceutically acceptable, for instance HFA 134a or HFA 227, a drug to be delivered to the lung which is insoluble in the hydrofluoroalkane, the drug being in particulate form in the composition, further containing a suspension stabiliser which is a non-toxic essential oil miscible with the hydrofluoroalkane liquid at room temperature. The essential oil is preferably one having some amphiphilic property, such as a ketone or aldehyde compound. Insulin may be formulated for inhalation.