Inhaler technology license

Product design and development group,

, has licensed its ‘reverse flow cyclone’ inhaler technology to healthcare company,

.

The deal gives 3M an exclusive license and purchase agreement for the Conix Dry Powder Inhaler (DPI).

The technology can be used in a range of devices, from multi-unit dose treatments to single-dose mass inoculations, and will add to 3M’s existing inhaler technology platform.

According to Cambridge Consultants, the Conix platform technology allows allows drugs to be delivered deep into the lungs while reducing upper airway deposition.

The device uses a patented cyclone, which contains no moving parts or propellants.

The cyclone distributes the drug throughout the inhalation, reportedly allowing up to a 40 per cent increase in respirable dose compared to conventional inhalers.

3M believes the technology will provide the opportunity to collaborate with partner pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies in developing new drug delivery solutions.

David Blakey, head of drug delivery at Cambridge Consultants, said: ‘This licence marks a key stage in the evolution of Conix.