Dry Powder Inhalers: A Review

Abstract

In the recent years pulmonary drug delivery system is found to be preferred route of administration for various drugs. It has been divided into 3 classes: Nebulizers, pMDI, DPI.DPI are used as an alternative to pMDI because pMDI contains propellant (CFC) which has ozone depletion characteristics. DPI delivers medication in the form of dry powder to lungs. DPI is formulated either as a carrier based system or carrier free system. A wide range of dry powder inhaler devices are presently available in the market to deliver drugs with maximum drug delivery and low variability. This review focuses on the DPI formulation, factors affecting performance of DPI, and evaluation parameters. The development of DPI is governed by regulatory bodies. FDA and EMEA supported by pharmacopoeia are responsible for assessing safety and efficacy. © 2011 IGJPS. All rights reserved.