Drug delivery device developer, Copenhagen-based Bang & Olufsen Medicom (B&OM) and valve technology provider, Bespak, of the UK, are to co-develop and co-market a single increment dose counting inhaler. The companies say the inhaler will be the first integrated dose-counting device to feature an assisted firing mechanism, making it easier for patients to use.
The partnership has been formed to develop a next generation "press and breathe" Assisted Actuated Inhaler that will be aimed at the expanding asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) market. The two companies will share responsibility for the development, manufacture and co-promotion of the device.
B&OM ceo Henrik Kagenow said: "It will be the first patient compliance device on the market with a dose counter that meets FDA requirements."
Mark Throdahl, ceo of Bespak, cited B&OM's design-based heritage and insight into patient compliance as strategic in the alliance: "We think their dose-counting mechanism will bring a lot of value to the collaboration. Together, our joint forces enable us to bring the device to the market in high volumes within strict quality and design guidelines".
The functionality of the device has already been validated and is ready for incorporation into a metered dose inhaler programme. The developers are now seeking alliances with pharma companies interested in providing new inhaler solutions for patients.