Abstract: A disposable inhaler that includes a deagglomeration section is disclosed. The deagglomeration section has a section inlet, a section outlet, and a divider for splitting the stream of air into two flow parts. The divider has a surface that faces the section inlet at an angle substantially perpendicular to the stream of air passing through the section inlet, and the walls of the inhalation channel within the inhaler are shaped so as to cause substantially no resistance to or turbulence in the air flow through the inhaler.

Abstract: A generally flat, elongate inhaler is disclosed. The inhaler has a bend or a projection in its body that provides a guide to the user as to how far the inhaler should be inserted into the mouth.

Abstract: A single-use, disposable inhaler comprising: (1) a housing open at both ends, one end forming an air inlet and the other forming an air outlet, thereby defining an air flow path through the inhaler; and (2) an internal plate spaced above and below the housing, oriented parallel to the axis of the inhaler and parallel to the air flow path. The internal plate comprises a storage cavity formed therein, located near the air inlet, in which a single dose of a pharmaceutically active compound is placed. An individual using the inhaler inhales through the air inlet, creating an air stream which lifts the powder out of the storage cavity, into the air stream, and to the user.

Abstract: An inhalation device comprising means for breaking down aggregates of finely divided powdered medicament to provide medicament having a large number of particles within the respiratory range (less than 10 .mu.m). The deaggregation means comprise at least two pairs of opposing surfaces in a gas/air flow path. The first pair define an inlet to a constricted region in the air flow path, and the second pair are located at or near the outlet of the constriction. The two pairs of surfaces are oriented at different angles with respect to the axis of the air flow path. In use, medicament particles carried by the gas/air flow impact the first pair of surfaces, then enter the constricted region where the speed of the gas/air flow is increased, and then impact the second pair of surfaces. The impacts break down agglomerations of the finely divided medicament, thereby delivering to the user a greater number of particles in the respiratory range.