FLAVORED VAPORIZABLE FORMULATION

Abstract

There is provided a flavored vaporizable formulation comprising (i) one or more solvents; (ii) a flavor; and (iii) one or more cyclodextrins; wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 10 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a National Phase entry of PCT Application No. PCT/GB2018/053137, filed Oct. 31, 2018, which claims priority from Great Britain Patent Application No. 1718033.2 filed Nov. 1, 2017, each of which is fully incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to a flavored vaporizable formulation, containers in which are contained the flavored vaporizable formulation and to electronic vapor provision systems such as electronic vapor delivery systems (e.g. e-cigarettes) incorporating said formulation.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

Electronic vapor provision systems such as e-cigarettes generally contain a reservoir of liquid which is to be vaporized, typically containing nicotine. When a user inhales on the device, a heater is activated to vaporize a small amount of liquid, which is therefore inhaled by the user.

The use of e-cigarettes in the UK has grown rapidly, and it has been estimated that there are now almost three million people using them in the UK. E-cigarettes typically deliver a vapor containing nicotine and/or flavor to the user. For users requiring an experience of flavored inhalation then a flavored vapor may be provided either in combination with nicotine or, indeed, without the delivery of any nicotine.

Current e-cigarette formulations typically utilize glycerol and/or propylene glycol as the excipient substances. It is found that that levels of volatile ingredients, such as flavors and in particular menthol, in electronic cigarette liquids reduce over time during storage. The loss of flavors is found to have a negative impact on sensory experience for consumers. Furthermore, the application rate of flavors is constrained by a limited solubility in the electronic cigarette base fluid (typically a mixture of glycerol, water and propylene glycol, optionally together with nicotine).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect there is provided a flavored vaporizable formulation comprising

(i) one or more solvents;

(ii) a flavor; and

(iii) one or more cyclodextrins;

wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 10 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation.

Claimed embodiments further provide a process for forming a vapor, the process comprising

(a) providing a flavored vaporizable formulation comprising

(i) one or more solvents;

(ii) a flavor; and

(iii) one or more cyclodextrins;

wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 10 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation; and

(b) vaporizing the flavored vaporizable formulation.

Claimed embodiments further provide a contained flavored vaporizable formulation comprising

(a) a container; and

(b) a flavored vaporizable formulation comprising

(i) one or more solvents;

(ii) a flavor; and

(iii) one or more cyclodextrins;

wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 10 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation.

Claimed embodiments further provide an electronic vapor provision system comprising:

(a) a vaporizer for vaporizing liquid for inhalation by a user of the electronic vapor provision system;

(b) a power supply comprising a cell or battery for supplying power to the vaporizer; and

(c) a flavored vaporizable formulation comprising

(i) one or more solvents;

(ii) a flavor; and

(iii) one or more cyclodextrins;

wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 10 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation.

Claimed embodiments further provide a process for reducing loss of flavor over time of a flavored vaporizable formulation

the process comprising:

(a) providing a vaporizable material comprising one or more solvents;

(b) incorporating into the vaporizable material a flavor and one or more cyclodextrins to form the flavored vaporizable formulation.

Claimed embodiments further provide use of one or more cyclodextrins for reducing loss of flavor over time of a flavored vaporizable formulation, wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation comprises

(i) one or more solvents; and

(ii) a flavor.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments disclosed herein include a flavored vaporizable formulation comprising (i) one or more solvents; (ii) a flavor; and (iii) one or more cyclodextrins; wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 10 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation.

The use of cyclodextrins to solubilize hydrophobic drugs has been documented in the pharmaceutical industry. Specifically, cyclodextrins have been used where drugs are designed for treatment of respiratory diseases and therefore intended for deep lung inhalation. Furthermore, the use of cyclodextrins to encapsulate flavors is known in consumer products, albeit not for products designed for inhalation. However, whilst cyclodextrin has been generally used to address solubility issues, in systems where solubility of hydrophobic components is not of concern the use of solubilizing agents such as cyclodextrin would not be necessary. We have found that in the field of electronic cigarettes containing water in an amount of from 0 to 10 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation the use of one or more cyclodextrins can be used to reduce the loss of flavor over time of a flavored vaporizable formulation.

For ease of reference, these and further aspects of the present invention are now discussed under appropriate section headings. However, the teachings under each section are not necessarily limited to each particular section.

Cyclodextrins

In some aspects of the invention the flavored vaporizable formulation may comprises one or more cyclodextrins (which may be substituted or unsubstituted). In these aspects, the one or more cyclodextrins may be selected from the group consisting of unsubstituted cyclodextrins, substituted cyclodextrins and mixtures thereof. In these aspects, the at least one cyclodextrin may be an unsubstituted cyclodextrin. In these aspects, the one or more cyclodextrins may be selected from the group consisting of unsubstituted cyclodextrins. In these aspects, the at least one cyclodextrin may be a substituted cyclodextrin. In these aspects, the one or more cyclodextrins may be selected from the group consisting of substituted cyclodextrins.

In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are selected from the group consisting of unsubstituted (α)-cyclodextrin, substituted (α)-cyclodextrin, unsubstituted (β)-cyclodextrin, substituted (β)-cyclodextrin, unsubstituted (γ)-cyclodextrin, substituted (γ)-cyclodextrin, and mixtures thereof.

As discussed herein, we have found that each of the α, β and γ variants of cyclodextrin may be used and the most suitable one may be selected depending on the ‘guest’ components, such as the present flavors, to be complexed.

In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are selected from the group consisting of unsubstituted (α)-cyclodextrin, unsubstituted (β)-cyclodextrin, unsubstituted (γ)-cyclodextrin, and mixtures thereof.

In some aspects of the invention the flavored vaporizable formulation may comprises one or more substituted cyclodextrins. In these aspects, or in aspects in which the one or more cyclodextrins may be substituted or unsubstituted, the one or more cyclodextrins may be selected from the group consisting of substituted (α)-cyclodextrin, substituted (β)-cyclodextrin, substituted (γ)-cyclodextrin, and mixtures thereof.

In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are selected from the group consisting of 2-hydroxy-propyl-α-cyclodextrin, 2-hydroxy-propyl-β-cyclodextrin, 2-hydroxy-propyl-γ-cyclodextrin and mixtures thereof. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins is at least 2-hydroxy-propyl-α-cyclodextrin. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins is at least 2-hydroxy-propyl-β-cyclodextrin. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins is at least 2-hydroxy-propyl-γ-cyclodextrin.

We have found that 2-hydroxy-propyl derivatives of cyclodextrins, such as 2-hydroxy-propyl-β-cyclodextrin are particularly preferred since these derivatives have increased solubility in water when compared to base cyclodextrins such as β-cyclodextrin.

The one or more cyclodextrins may be present in any suitable amount in the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than 20 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than 18 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than 16 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than 14 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than 12 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than 10 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than 9 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than 8 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than 7 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than 6 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than 5 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least 1 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least 2 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least 3 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least 4 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least 5 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least 6 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least 7 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least 8 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 1 to 20 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 1 to 18 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 1 to 16 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 1 to 14 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 1 to 12 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 1 to 10 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 1 to 9 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 1 to 8 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 1 to 7 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 1 to 6 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 1 to 5 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 2 to 20 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 2 to 18 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 2 to 16 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 2 to 14 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 2 to 12 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 2 to 10 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 2 to 9 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 2 to 8 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 2 to 7 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 2 to 6 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 2 to 5 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

Solvent

As discussed herein, the flavored vaporizable formulation comprises one or more solvents. The one or more solvents may be any suitable solvents. In one aspect, the one or more solvents is selected from water, glycerol, propylene glycol and mixtures thereof. Other suitable solvents will be apparent to one skilled in the art.

The one or more solvents may be present in any suitable amount in the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 5 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 10 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 15 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 20 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 25 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 30 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 35 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 40 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 45 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 50 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 55 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 60 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 65 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 70 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 75 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 85 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 5 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 10 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 15 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 20 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 25 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 30 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 35 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 40 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 45 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 50 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 55 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 60 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 65 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 70 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 75 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 80 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 85 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 90 to 99 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 5 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 10 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 15 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 20 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 25 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 30 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 35 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 40 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 45 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 50 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 55 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 60 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 65 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 70 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 75 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 80 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 85 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 90 to 95 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 5 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 10 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 15 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 20 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 25 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 30 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 35 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 40 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 45 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 50 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 55 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 60 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 65 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 70 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 75 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 80 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from 85 to 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

As discussed herein, in one aspect the solvent is at least glycerol. The glycerol may be present in any suitable amount in the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least 5 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least 10 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least 15 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least 20 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least 25 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least 30 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least 35 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 5 to 40 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 10 to 40 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 15 to 40 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 20 to 40 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 25 to 40 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 30 to 40 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 35 to 40 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

As discussed herein, in one aspect the solvent is at least propylene glycol. The propylene glycol may be present in any suitable amount in the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least 5 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least 10 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least 15 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least 20 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least 25 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least 30 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least 35 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 5 to 40 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 10 to 40 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 15 to 40 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 20 to 40 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 25 to 40 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 30 to 40 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 35 to 40 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

Water

As discussed herein, the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 10 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. This amount includes 0% water based on the vaporizable formulation and therefore the flavored vaporizable formulation may contain water or may not contain water.

In one aspect the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water. The water may be present in any suitable amount in the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 9 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 8 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 7 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 6 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 5 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 4 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 3 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 2 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 1 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 0.5 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 0.2 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 0.1 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 0.05 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 0.02 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 0.01 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 0.001 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 0.0001 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from 0 to 0.00001 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation.

In an alternative embodiment, the solvent comprises substantially no water. In this regard, it is noted that some formulations may be hygroscopic and as such water ingress into the formulation cannot be ruled out. Accordingly, by “substantially no water” it is meant that the amount of water present is less than 0.1 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

Flavors

As used herein, the terms “flavor” and “flavorant” refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, are add with the intention to create a desired taste or aroma in a product for adult consumers. Thus, whilst it is acknowledged that some other functional components of the formulation may contain components that have a perceptible flavor or aroma, such components are not added for this purpose and as such are not considered to be a “flavor” or “flavorant” in the context of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be understood that “flavors” or “flavorants” may well composed of one or more individual compounds that together form an identifiable flavor. As such, reference here to “flavor” or “flavorant” includes both singular and multi-component flavors.

As discussed here the flavored vaporizable formulation of the present invention comprises one or more flavors.

In one aspect the flavored vaporizable formulation of the present invention comprises only one flavor. In one aspect the flavored vaporizable formulation of the present invention comprises more than one flavor. In one aspect the flavored vaporizable formulation of the present invention comprises two or more flavors. In one aspect the flavored vaporizable formulation of the present invention comprises only two flavors. In one aspect the flavored vaporizable formulation of the present invention comprises three or more flavors. In one aspect the flavored vaporizable formulation of the present invention comprises only three flavors. In one aspect the flavored vaporizable formulation of the present invention comprises four or more flavors. In one aspect the flavored vaporizable formulation of the present invention comprises only four flavors. In one aspect the flavored vaporizable formulation of the present invention comprises five or more flavors. In one aspect the flavored vaporizable formulation of the present invention comprises only five flavors.

In one aspect the one or more flavors are selected from the group consisting of extracts (e.g. licorice, hydrangea, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, peach, apple, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, piment, ginger, anise, coriander, coffee, or a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha), flavor enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators or stimulators, sugars and/or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents. They may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example, oil, liquid, or powder.

In one aspect the one or more flavors are selected from the group consisting of (4-(para-)methoxyphenyl)-2-butanone, vanillin, γ-undecalactone, menthone, 5-propenyl guaethol, menthol, para-mentha-8-thiol-3- and mixtures thereof.

In one aspect the flavor is at least menthol. In one aspect the flavor is only menthol. In one aspect menthol comprises at least 30 wt. % of the flavors present in the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect menthol comprises at least 40 wt. % of the flavors present in the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect menthol comprises at least 50 wt. % of the flavors present in the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect menthol comprises at least 60 wt. % of the flavors present in the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect menthol comprises at least 70 wt. % of the flavors present in the flavored vaporizable formulation.

In one aspect, at least one of the one or more flavors is hydrophobic. In one aspect each of the one or more flavors is hydrophobic.

The one or more flavors may be present in any amount to deliver the desired flavor to the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 10 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 9 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 8 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 7 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 6 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 5 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 4 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 3 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 2 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 1.8 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 1.6 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 1.5 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 1.4 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 1.3 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 1.2 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 1.1 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 1 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.01 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.02 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.03 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.04 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.05 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.06 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.07 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.08 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.09 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.1 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.2 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.3 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.4 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.5 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.6 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.7 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.8 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of at least 0.9 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 10 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 9 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 8 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 7 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 6 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 5 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 4 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 3 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 2 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 1.8 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 1.6 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 1.5 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 1.4 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 1.3 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 1.2 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 1.1. wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 1 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

We have found that the addition of the one or more flavors in a molar excess with respect to the one or more cyclodextrins may result in the one or more flavors precipitating from the formulation. Therefore in one aspect, the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a molar excess with respect to the one or more flavors. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors is at least 1.2:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors is at least 1.4:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors is at least 1.6:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors is at least 1.8:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors is at least 2:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors is from 5:1 to 1.5:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors is from 4:1 to 1.5:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors is from 2:1 to 1.5:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors is from 2:1 to 1.5:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors is from 2:1 to 1.2:1.

Flavored Vaporizable Formulation

The flavored vaporizable formulation of the present invention may contain one or more further components. These components may be selected depending on the nature of the formulation. In one aspect, the flavored vaporizable formulation further comprises an active agent. By “active agent” it is meant an agent which has a biological effect on a subject when the vapor is inhaled. The one or more active agents may be of synthetic or natural origin. The active could be an extract from a botanical, such as from a plant in the tobacco family. An example active is nicotine.

In one aspect, the active agent is at least nicotine. Thus, the present invention may provide a flavored vaporizable formulation comprising a flavored vaporizable formulation comprising (i) one or more solvents; (ii) a flavor; (iii) one or more substituted cyclodextrins; and (iv) nicotine. The present invention may further provide a flavored vaporizable formulation comprising (i) one or more solvents; (ii) a flavor; (iii) one or more cyclodextrins, wherein the total content of cyclodextrins is at least 1 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation; and (iv) nicotine.

Nicotine may be provided at any suitable amount depending on the desired dosage to be inhaled by the user. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of no greater than 6 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to 6 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to 6 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to 6 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1.8 to 6 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to 5 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to 5 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to 5 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1.8 to 5 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of no greater than 4 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to 4 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to 4 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to 4 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1.8 to 4 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of no greater than 3 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to 3 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to 3 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to 3 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1.8 to 3 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of no greater than 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of no greater than 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.5 to 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.5 to 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of less than 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of less than 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to less than 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to less than 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.5 to less than 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.5 to less than 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to less than 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to less than 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to less than 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to less than 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the flavored vaporizable formulation.

As discussed herein, we have found that each of the α, β and γ variants of cyclodextrin may be used and the most suitable one may be selected depending on the ‘guest’ components, such as the present flavors, to be complexed. We have found that the 13 variant complexes well with nicotine and other structurally similar active substances, so a small inclusion level is likely. 2-hydroxy-propyl-β-cyclodextrin complexes well with cyclic molecules which includes nicotine, but also key flavor components such as menthol and vanillin.

We have found that the addition of a combination of the one or more actives and the one or more flavors in a combined molar excess with respect to the one or more cyclodextrins may result in the actives and flavors precipitating from the formulation. Therefore in one aspect, the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a molar excess with respect to total combined amount of the one or more flavors and the one or more actives. In one aspect, the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a molar excess with respect to total combined amount of the one or more flavors and nicotine. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors and nicotine combined is at least 1.2:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors and nicotine combined is at least 1.4:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors and nicotine combined is at least 1.6:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors and nicotine combined is at least 1.8:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors and nicotine combined is at least 2:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors and nicotine combined is from 5:1 to 1.5:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors and nicotine combined is from 4:1 to 1.5:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors and nicotine combined is from 2:1 to 1.5:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors and nicotine combined is from 2:1 to 1.5:1. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavors and nicotine combined is from 2:1 to 1.2:1.

Process

As discussed herein, the present invention provides a process for forming a vapor, the process comprising

(a) providing a flavored vaporizable formulation comprising

(i) one or more solvents;

(ii) a flavor; and

(iii) one or more cyclodextrins;

wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 10 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation; and

(b) vaporizing the flavored vaporizable formulation.

Further Aspects

The flavored vaporizable formulation may be contained or delivered by any means. In one aspect the present invention provides a contained flavored vaporizable formulation comprising

(a) a container; and

(b) a flavored vaporizable formulation comprising

(i) one or more solvents;

(ii) a flavor; and

(iii) one or more cyclodextrins;

wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 10 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation.

The container may be any suitable container, for example to allow for the storage or delivery of the formulation. In one aspect the container is configured for engagement with an electronic vapor provision system. The container may be a bottle. The container may be configured to become fluidly in communication with an electronic vapor provision system so that formulation may be delivered to the electronic vapor provision system. As described above, the present disclosure relates to container which may be used in an electronic vapor provision system, such as an e-cigarette. Throughout the following description the term “e-cigarette” is used; however, this term may be used interchangeably with electronic vapor provision system.

As discussed herein, the container of the present invention is typically provided for the delivery of flavored vaporizable formulation to or within an e-cigarette. The flavored vaporizable formulation may be held within an e-cigarette or may be sold as a separate container for subsequent use with or in an e-cigarette. As understood by one skilled in the art, e-cigarettes may contain a unit known as a detachable cartomiser which typically comprises a reservoir of flavored vaporizable formulation, a wick material and a device for vaporizing the flavored vaporizable formulation. In some e-cigarettes, the cartomiser is part of a single-piece device and is not detachable. In one aspect the container is a cartomiser or is part of a cartomiser. In one aspect the container is not a cartomiser or part of a cartomiser and is a container, such as a tank, which may be used to deliver flavored vaporizable formulation to or within an e-cigarette.

In one aspect the container is part of an e-cigarette. In one aspect the present invention further provides an electronic vapor provision system comprising:

(a) a vaporizer for vaporizing liquid for inhalation by a user of the electronic vapor provision system;

(b) a power supply comprising a cell or battery for supplying power to the vaporizer; and

(c) a flavored vaporizable formulation comprising

(i) one or more solvents;

(ii) a flavor; and

(iii) one or more cyclodextrins;

wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 10 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation.

In addition to the flavored vaporizable formulation of the present invention and to systems such as containers and electronic aerosol provision systems containing the same, the present invention provides a process for reducing loss of flavor over time of a flavored vaporizable formulation the process comprising:

(a) providing a vaporizable material comprising at least one or more solvents;

(b) incorporating into the vaporizable material a flavor and one or more cyclodextrins to form the flavored vaporizable formulation.

A process of the present invention may comprises additional elements either before those listed, after those listed or between one or more of those listed.

In addition to the flavored vaporizable formulation of the present invention and to systems such as containers and electronic aerosol provision systems containing the same, the present invention provides use of one or more cyclodextrins for reducing loss of flavor over time of a flavored vaporizable formulation, wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation comprises (i) one or more solvents; and (ii) a flavor.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments disclosed herein will now be described in further detail by way of example only with reference to the accompanying figure in which:—

FIG. 1 shows a graph;

FIG. 2 shows a graph;

FIG. 3 shows a schematic of an analysis method;

FIG. 4 shows a spectra;

FIG. 5 shows a spectra; and

FIG. 6 shows a graph;

An embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to the following non-limiting example.

Examples

Base Formulation

Base Formulation 1 was prepared containing:

	propylene glycol	35.5	wt. %
	glycerol	39.5	wt. %
	water	25	wt. %

Into this base formulation was incorporated a variety of 2-hydroxy-propyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-B-CD) and menthol amounts as described below:

• • Excess of menthol added to base formulation containing varying concentrations of HP-B-CD
  • Formulation allowed to equilibrate for 24 hrs on roller.
  • Excess menthol centrifuged then filtered off by syringe filtration (Millex PVDF, 0.45 μm pore size)
  • Saturated formulation isolated and diluted in PES.
  • Diluted formulation analyzed via GC-FID to quantify maximum menthol concentration in formulation.
  • Plotting maximum menthol concentration at each HP-B-CD concentration gives a gradient which shows how effective cyclodextrin is at solubilizing menthol in that base formulation.
  • 3 repeats at each cyclodextrin concentration.

Visual Inspection

The products were subjected to visual inspection and the results given below. Solubilization was considered to have occurred when substantially no menthol crystals could be visualized. Where the menthol crystals were considered to have solubilized the sample was given a Y (yes, solubilized). Where the menthol crystals were considered to have solubilized the sample was given a N (no, not solubilized).

	Menthol	Cyclodextrin Concentration (% w/w)
	Concentration	N/A	0.5	1	3	7
	0.50%	Y	Y	Y	Y	Y
	0.60%	N	N	N	Y	Y
	0.70%	N	N	N	Y	Y
	0.80%	N	N	N	N	Y
	0.90%	N	N	N	N	Y
	1%	N	N	N	N	Y

Phase Solubility

Phase solubility was also studied and the results of this are shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

These analytical data support the solubility trend seen observationally in formulations i.e. menthol concentration is increased with increasing cyclodextrin concentration. A linear relationship of increased menthol concentration when increasing HP-B-CD concentration was observed. Approximately 30% increase in menthol concentration was found from 0% HP-B-CD to 3% HP-B-CD.

Static Headspace

In addition to Base Formulation 1 (described above), Base Formulation 2 was prepared containing:

propylene glycol 40 wt. %
glycerol         60 wt. %

Base Formulation 1 and Base Formulation 2 containing 0%, 3% and 20% w/w HP-B-CD were prepared. 10 g of each base formulations were spiked with 0.05 g menthol. and 0.4 g of a flavor comprising essential oils 1 mL headspace of volatile compounds was analyzed to study whether cyclodextrins reduce the volatility of flavor compounds and thereby reduce flavor loss from cartomiser units. The method of analysis is shown in FIG. 3. The concentrations of HPBCD used (w/w) were 0%, 0.5%, 1%, 3% and 7% and the following procedure was followed:

• • Cartomiser units filled with e-liquid containing varying concentrations of cyclodextrin.
  • Measurement of menthol concentration via GC-FID every two weeks in order to track menthol loss from cartomisers over time and to see if this is influenced by the presence of cyclodextrin.
  • 0.1 mL taken from cartomiser at each time point (two measurement at each concentration)
  • Cartomisers kept at room temperature

The results of the analysis are shown in FIGS. 4, 5 and 6. The headspace analysis showed that the presence of cyclodextrin reduces the concentration of flavor compounds in the headspace. The reduction of headspace loss was observed for both bases. The cartomiser loss also confirmed that cyclodextrin reduces the loss of menthol from cartomisers.

Various modifications and variations of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to those skilled in chemistry or related fields are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A flavored vaporizable formulation comprising:

(i) one or more solvents;

(ii) a flavor; and

(iii) one or more cyclodextrins;

wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 10 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation;

wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation further comprises nicotine.

2. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the total content of cyclodextrins is at least 1 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation.

3. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the one or more cyclodextrins are selected from the group consisting of substituted or unsubstituted (α)-cyclodextrin, substituted or unsubstituted (β)-cyclodextrin, substituted or unsubstituted (γ)-cyclodextrin, and mixtures thereof.

4. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the one or more cyclodextrins comprises at least one or more substituted cyclodextrins.

5. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the solvent is selected from water, glycerol, propylene glycol and mixtures thereof.

6. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the solvent comprises at least glycerol, propylene glycol or a mixture thereof.

7. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the solvent is mixture of glycerol and propylene glycol.

8. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 5 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation.

9. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 1 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation.

10. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 0.1 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation.

11. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the solvent is present in an amount of at least 75 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

12. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the solvent is present in an amount of at least 90 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

13. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the one or more flavors are selected from the group consisting of (4-(para-)methoxyphenyl)-2-butanone, vanillin, γ-undecalactone, menthone, 5-propenyl guaethol, menthol, para-mentha-8-thiol-3-one and mixtures thereof.

14. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the flavor includes menthol.

15. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of no greater than 2 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

16. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the one or more flavors are present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 1 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

17. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the one or more cyclodextrins are selected from the group consisting of substituted (α)-cyclodextrin, substituted (β)-cyclodextrin, substituted (γ)-cyclodextrin, and mixtures thereof.

18. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the one or more cyclodextrins is at least 2-hydroxy-propyl-β-cyclodextrin.

19. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least 7 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

20. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than 10 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

21. A flavored vaporizable formulation according to claim 1 wherein the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from 2 to 9 wt. % based on the flavored vaporizable formulation.

22. A process for forming a vapor, the process comprising:

(a) providing a flavored vaporizable formulation as defined in claim 1; and

(b) vaporizing the flavored vaporizable formulation.

23. A contained flavored vaporizable formulation comprising

(a) a container; and

(b) a flavored vaporizable formulation as defined in claim 1.

24. An electronic vapor provision system comprising:

(a) a vaporizer for vaporizing liquid for inhalation by a user of the electronic vapor provision system;

(b) a power supply comprising a cell or battery for supplying power to the vaporizer; and

(c) a flavored vaporizable formulation comprising: (i) one or more solvents; (ii) a flavor; and (iii) one or more cyclodextrins; wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 10 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation.

25. An electronic vapour provision system according to claim 24 wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation is a flavored vaporizable formulation having a total content of cyclodextrins of at least 1 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation.

26. A process for at least one of increasing solubility of a flavor and/or reducing loss of flavor over time during storage from a flavored vaporizable formulation, the process comprising:

(a) providing a vaporizable material comprising at least one or more solvents;

(b) incorporating into the vaporizable material a flavor and one or more cyclodextrins to form the flavored vaporizable formulation.

27. A process according to claim 26 wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation is a flavored vaporizable formulation comprising:

(i) one or more solvents;

(ii) a flavor; and

(iii) one or more cyclodextrins;

wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 10 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation;

wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation further comprises nicotine.

28. Use of one or more cyclodextrins for increasing solubility of a flavor and/or reducing loss of flavor over time during storage from a flavored vaporizable formulation, wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation comprises:

(i) one or more solvents; and

(ii) a flavor.

29. Use according to claim 28 wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation is a flavored vaporizable comprising:

(i) one or more solvents;

(ii) a flavor; and

(iii) one or more cyclodextrins;

wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation contains water in an amount of from 0 to 10 wt. % based on the vaporizable formulation;

wherein the flavored vaporizable formulation further comprises nicotine.