OptiNose

Cambridge Consultants has used its considerable experience in developing liquid drug delivery systems to create a multi-dose bi-directional nasal delivery device for OptiNose. The design concept is based upon OptiNose's existing nasal delivery technology, which is unparalleled in its ability to effectively deliver drugs to sites within the nose which standard nasal sprays are unable to access, whilst uniquely preventing drug deposition in the lung.

The treatment of rhinosinusitis is poorly resolved by current nasal delivery systems because the drug does not adequately reach the upper posterior of the nasal passage. The new device, currently under development, exploits the body's natural reflex that isolates the nasal circuit from the lungs during exhalation against a resistance. As the patient breathes into the device, the exhaled air actuates the delivery device, the airflow created by exhalation then carries the spray droplets into the nose and into the posterior nasal passage beyond the nasal valve, allowing deposition of active substance in the region of the sinus. At the same time the process of breathing-out automatically closes the nasal cavity, removing the risk of distribution to the lungs.

A pilot study has shown that OptiNose's technology achieves better deposition to the middle meatus where the entrances to the sinuses are located and from which nasal polyps originate.

Helena Kyttari Djupesland, CEO of OptiNose commented, "By working with Cambridge Consultants on this bi-directional multi-dose liquid device we have been able to combine leading technology with excellent design and development capability. We are now in the process of creating a truly revolutionary product."