EMDI connected metered-dose inhaler
eMDI connected metered-dose inhaler
H&T Presspart has developed the first market-ready, fully embedded and connected metered-dose inhaler (eMDITM).
By tracking and recording data on the use of medications, and sharing it with patients and physicians via a mobile or web app, the eMDI enables pharmaceutical manufacturers to bring the best possible care to those with asthma and COPD.
The eMDITM improves patients’ adherence to medication doses, encourages self-care, and helps health professionals maintain real-time monitoring. The device can integrate with a mobile health app that can track both controller and rescue medications. It then transfers the data wirelessly to a smart phone app, or can even send information directly into a patient’s medical records.
This data capture, along with analytical and predictive capabilities, supports real-time alerts and informs clinical decision-making. Also, as an evolution of existing inhaler technology, the eMDI is quick and cost-effective to adopt, and easy for patients to use.
Unique features of the eMDI include:
- embedded sensors to detect medication use and quality of medication administration (proper inhaler actuation)
- embedded mechanical or electronic dose counting and display
- intuitive design, easy to use in the same way as standard pMDI
- no change to existing medication delivery pathway, reducing regulatory hurdles and time to market
- compatibility with any valve or canister
- battery life consistent with product shelf life – no replacement parts, recharging or battery changes
- modular design, where sensing and communication capabilities can be applied to a range of MDIs, DPIs and other drug delivery devices.
How the eMDI improves adherence and encourages self-care
Sensors embedded in the inhaler track the date and time of medication and the quality of delivery. The device then records this data in its onboard memory and shares it wirelessly with a smartphone app. The app then provides customised reminders and updates on medication use, as well as real-time alerts – for example, if the patient misses a dose or their medication use indicates poor adherence or a worsening of their condition. These reminders and alerts enable patients and caregivers to take steps to reduce the risk of an attack.
