RU2839034C1 - Inhaler article and inhalation system comprising inhaler article - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: medicine.

SUBSTANCE: group of inventions relates to medical equipment, namely to an article in the form of an inhaler and an inhalation system comprising an article in the form of an inhaler. Product has an end located upstream and an end located further downstream. Product comprises an upstream section containing an end plug. Product has a section located downstream, located downstream relative to the section located upstream of the flow and at a distance from the section located upstream. Downstream section comprises a filter segment. Resistance to draw per unit length of the filter segment is more than 0 millimetres of water per millimetre and less than 3 millimetres of water per millimetre. Filter segment can withstand a force of up to 15 newtons applied to its upstream end without deformation. Product includes a cavity defined between the upstream section and the downstream section. Cavity is configured to be in fluid communication with the outer part of the inhaler-like product. Product comprises a capsule containing an inhaled material, and the capsule is located in the cavity. System comprises an inhaler-shaped article and a holder for holding the inhaler-shaped article. Holder comprises a casing defining a casing cavity configured to receive an inhaler-like product, and a piercing element configured to pass into the casing cavity and pierce the capsule of the inhaler-like product.

EFFECT: creation of a product in the form of an inhaler, which is economical and fast to manufacture and which operates effectively, providing reliable consumption of the capsule during use to ensure a satisfactory sensation of the product in the form of an inhaler or an aerosol-generating product.

14 cl, 10 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to an article in the form of an inhaler (=inhalation article) having a specific filter segment. The present invention also relates to an inhalation system comprising a holder for accommodating the article in the form of an inhaler, and said article in the form of an inhaler.

Inhaler-type products, such as dry powder inhalers, are not always fully capable of delivering dry powder particles to the lungs at inhalation or air flow rates that are within the inhalation or air flow rates of normal smoking. Dry powder inhalers may be difficult to operate or may contain moving parts. Dry powder inhalers are often designed to deliver a suitable dose of dry powder or capsule contents in a single puff.

Some dry powder inhalers have a dry powder storage component, such as a capsule. The capsule may be located inside the inhaler and may be activated by puncturing with a separate puncturing element. Once the capsule has been activated, the user may draw through the mouth end (downstream end or near end) of the inhaler to create a flow of air through the inhaler such that the capsule rotates around itself. The shaking of the capsule inside the inhaler product and the pressure of the air flow cause the dry powder to be released from the punctured capsule. The released dry powder is carried by the air flow to the user's mouth.

Some inhaler products include a retaining segment located downstream of the capsule. The retaining or support segment is primarily provided to retain the capsule within the inhaler. The retaining segment may be hollow or porous to allow the dry powder to pass through. However, some retaining or support segments that are hollow or relatively highly porous may allow a relatively large amount of dry powder to pass through. This may mean that when the consumer draws through the product, the doses are too large, resulting in the capsule being used up prematurely, which may adversely affect the user's experience. Alternatively, the retaining element or segment may have a relatively low porosity, and the consumer may not be able to properly use up the capsule, given that the draw resistance of the inhaler product is relatively high and the doses drawn by the consumer are relatively small.

In addition, the upstream end (distal end) of the holding segment of the inhaler articles containing capsules withstands a significant axial force during the capsule activation process. During such an activation process, a piercing element enters the upstream end of the inhaler article to contact and pierce the capsule located inside the article. Upon the first contact, the piercing element presses the capsule against the upstream end of the holding (or support) segment to successfully pierce the capsule. Therefore, the downstream components of the inhaler article, especially the holding segment, must be relatively resistant to deformation, especially under compression and especially in the longitudinal direction, while also being sufficiently porous or having longitudinal air flow channels of a suitable size, so that the resistance to draw (RTD) of the inhaler article provides a pleasant sensation for the user.

It would be desirable to provide an inhaler product that is economical and quick to manufacture and that operates effectively by reliably dispensing the capsule during use to provide a satisfactory experience to users of the inhaler product or aerosol generating product.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an article in the form of an inhaler, having an upstream end and a downstream end or an end that is brought to the mouth. The article in the form of an inhaler comprises an upstream section. The upstream section comprises an end plug. The article in the form of an inhaler comprises a downstream section, located downstream relative to the upstream section and at a distance from the upstream section. The downstream section comprises a filter segment (also called a support segment or a mouthpiece segment). The draw resistance per unit length of the filter segment is greater than 0 millimeters of water (also expressed in millimeters of water, mm H ₂ O, mm of water, mm of water meter, mm of water column or mm of water) per millimeter (mm) and less than about 3 millimeters of water per millimeter. This may be similar or equivalent to the draw resistance of a conventional cigarette or a conventional dry powder inhaler. The inhaler article comprises a cavity defined between an upstream section and a downstream section. The cavity is configured to be in fluid communication with the outside of the inhaler article. The inhaler article comprises a capsule containing an inhalable material. The capsule is located in the cavity.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an article in the form of an inhaler having an upstream end and a downstream end. The article in the form of an inhaler may comprise an upstream section. The upstream section may comprise an end plug. The article in the form of an inhaler may comprise a downstream section located downstream relative to the upstream section and at a distance from the upstream section. The downstream section may comprise a mouthpiece segment or a filter segment. The draw resistance per unit length of the mouthpiece segment or the filter segment may be greater than 0 mm of water per mm and less than approximately 3 mm of water per mm. The article in the form of an inhaler may comprise a cavity defined between the upstream section and the downstream section. The cavity may be designed to accommodate a capsule containing an inhalable material. The cavity can be designed to be in fluid communication with the outer part of the product in the form of an inhaler.

The inhaler product may contain a capsule containing an inhalable material. The capsule may be located in a cavity.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a mouthpiece segment or a filter segment is also provided for use in an inhaler article or any other aerosol-generating article. The draw resistance per unit length of the mouthpiece segment or filter segment may be greater than 0 mm of water per mm and less than about 3 mm of water per mm.

It has been found that providing a filter segment downstream of the capsule having a resistance to draw (RTD) per unit length of approximately 0 mm of water per mm to approximately 3 mm of water per mm is advantageous in ensuring that the user can generate a suitable air flow due to the RTD characteristics of the filter segment. This ensures a suitable air flow rate to achieve effective consumption of the inhalable material contained within the capsule.

The "filter segment" of the inhaler article may alternatively be referred to in the present invention as the "support segment", "mouthpiece segment", "retaining segment", "downstream segment" or "downstream section" of the inhaler article. The cavity is preferably defined between the upstream section and the filter segment, more preferably between the end plug and the filter segment.

The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the relative positions of the elements of the holder, the inhaler article, and the inhalation systems described with respect to the direction of the inhaled air flow as it is drawn through the inhaler article, the holder, and the inhalation systems. "Downstream" is the mouth end. "Upstream" is further from the mouth end.

The term "longitudinal" refers to the direction corresponding to the major longitudinal axis of the inhaler article or inhalation system, extending between the upstream and downstream ends. During use, air is drawn through the aerosol-generating article or inhaler article in the longitudinal direction from the upstream end to the downstream end. The term "transverse" refers to the direction that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Any reference to a "section" of the inhaler article or a component thereof refers to a cross-section, unless otherwise specified. The term "length" refers to the dimension of a component of the aerosol-generating article or inhaler article in the longitudinal direction. For example, it can be used to refer to the dimension of a capsule or filter segment in the longitudinal direction. The term "tangential" refers to a direction that is at an angle to the specified direction. For example, a tangential angle is not parallel to the specified direction.

The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used to describe the relative positions of components or parts of components of an article in the form of an inhaler, a holder or an inhalation system. The holders or elements (such as a sleeve) forming a holder according to the invention have a proximal end in which the article in the form of an inhaler is placed in use, and an opposite distal end, which may be a closed end or have an end located closer to the proximal end of the holder. The articles in the form of an inhaler according to the invention have a proximal end. In use, nicotine particles exit the proximal end of the article in the form of an inhaler for delivery to the user. The inhaler has a distal end opposite the proximal end. The proximal end of the article in the form of an inhaler may also be referred to as the mouth end or the downstream end. The distal end of a component may correspond to the upstream end of such a component. The proximal end of a component may correspond to the downstream end of such a component.

Unless otherwise specified, the resistance to draw (RTD) of an inhaler component or device is measured in accordance with ISO 6565-2015. RTD refers to the pressure required to force air through the entire length of the component. The terms "pressure drop" or "draw resistance" of a component or device may also refer to "draw resistance". Such terms generally refer to measurements in accordance with ISO 6565-2015, which are typically performed under test conditions at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 17.5 millilitres per second at the outlet or downstream end of the component being measured, at a temperature of approximately 22 degrees Celsius, a pressure of approximately 101 kPa (approximately 760 Torr) and a relative humidity of approximately 60%.

The resistance to draw per unit length of a specific component, such as a filter segment, can be calculated by dividing the measured resistance to draw of the component by the total axial length of the component. RTD per unit length means the pressure required to force air to pass through a unit length of the component. Throughout the present invention, a unit of length refers to a length of 1 mm. Accordingly, to obtain the RTD per unit length of a specific filter segment, a sample of a filter segment of a certain length, for example 15 mm, can be used in the measurement. The RTD of such a sample is measured in accordance with ISO 6565-2015. If, for example, the measured RTD is approximately 15 mm of water, then the RTD per unit length of the filter segment is approximately 1 mm of water per mm. The RTD per unit length of the filter segment depends on the structural properties of the material used for the filter segment, as well as the geometric shapes of the cross-section or profile of the filter segment, among other factors.

The relative RTD or RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be from about 0 mm of water per mm to about 3 mm of water per mm. Alternatively, the RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be from about 0 mm of water per mm to about 2.5 mm of water per mm. Alternatively, the RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be from about 0 mm of water per mm to about 2 mm of water per mm. The RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be from about 0 mm of water per mm to about 1 mm of water per mm. The RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be from about 0 mm of water per mm to about 0.75 mm of water per mm.

As mentioned above, the relative RTD or RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be greater than about 0 mm of water per mm and less than about 3 mm of water per mm. Alternatively, the RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be greater than about 0 mm of water per mm and less than about 2.5 mm of water per mm. Alternatively, the RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be greater than about 0 mm of water per mm and less than about 2 mm of water per mm. The RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be greater than about 0 mm of water per mm and less than about 1 mm of water per mm. The RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be greater than about 0 mm of water per mm and less than about 0.75 mm of water per mm.

The RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be greater than or equal to 0.01 mm of water per mm. Thus, the RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be from about 0.01 mm of water per mm to about 3 mm of water per mm. Alternatively, the RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be from about 0.01 mm of water per mm to about 2.5 mm of water per mm. Alternatively, the RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be from about 0.01 mm of water per mm to about 2 mm of water per mm. The RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be from about 0.01 mm of water per mm to about 1 mm of water per mm. The RTD per unit length of the filter segment may be from about 0.01 mm of water per mm to about 0.75 mm of water per mm.

The draw resistance of the filter segment may be greater than 0 millimeters of water and less than approximately 20 millimeters of water. The draw resistance of the filter segment may be greater than 0 mm of water and less than approximately 15 mm of water. The draw resistance of the filter segment may be greater than 0 mm of water and less than approximately 10 mm of water. The draw resistance of the filter segment may be greater than 0 mm of water and less than approximately 10 mm of water.

The filter segment may be configured to withstand a force of up to approximately 15 Newtons applied to its upstream end without significant deformation in the longitudinal direction. As discussed above, the filter segment located downstream of the capsule must be configured to withstand the compressive force exerted by the capsule on the upstream end of the filter segment during activation of the capsule. Thus, the filter segment may be sufficiently rigid to withstand such activation of the capsule. The filter segment may comprise a rigid material.

The filter segment can be configured to withstand a force of up to about 12 newtons applied to the upstream end of the filter segment without significant deformation in the longitudinal direction. The filter segment can be configured to withstand a force of up to about 7 newtons applied to its upstream end without significant deformation. The filter segment can be configured to withstand a force of at least about 3 newtons applied to its upstream end without significant deformation. The filter segment can be configured to withstand a force of at least about 3 newtons to about 15 newtons applied to its upstream end without significant deformation. The filter segment can be configured to withstand a force of at least about 3 newtons to about 12 newtons applied to its upstream end without significant deformation. It has been found that ensuring that the filter segment can withstand any of such a range of forces applied to its upstream end ensures that the filter segment is not damaged during the capsule activation process, thus not adversely affecting the performance of the inhaler product and the user experience.

The expression "without significant deformation" is used in this document to mean a filter segment that does not deform plastically, irreversibly, or permanently.

It is advantageous that the filter segment is sufficiently rigid and strong to withstand a force of up to approximately 15 Newtons applied to its upstream end without plastic, irreversible or permanent deformation in the longitudinal direction. Any permanent deformation remaining in the filter segment after puncturing the capsule may adversely affect the overall performance and structural integrity of the inhaler product.

The filter segment may be formed from a fibrous material. The filter segment may be formed from a porous material. The filter segment may be formed from a biodegradable material. The filter segment may be made from a cellulose material, such as acetyl cellulose. The filter segment may be made from a polylactic acid-based material. The filter segment may be made from a bioplastic material, preferably a starch-based bioplastic material. The filter segment may be manufactured by injection molding or by extrusion. Bioplastic-based materials are advantageous because they can provide filter segment structures that are simple and inexpensive to manufacture with a specific and complex cross-sectional profile, which can contain a plurality of relatively large air flow channels passing through the filter segment material, which provides suitable RTD characteristics to ensure adequate consumption of the capsule, while being strong enough to withstand the forces experienced by the filter segment during capsule activation.

The filter segment may be made from a sheet of suitable material, corrugated, pleated, gathered, woven or bent into an element that forms a plurality of channels extending in the longitudinal direction. Such a sheet of suitable material may be formed from paper, cardboard, a polymer such as polylactic acid, or any other cellulose-based material, paper-based material or bioplastic-based material. The cross-sectional profile of such a filter segment may show the channels as randomly oriented.

The filter segment may be formed by any other suitable method. For example, the filter segment may be formed from a bundle of longitudinally extending tubes. The longitudinally extending tubes may be formed from polylactic acid. The filter segment may be formed by extrusion, casting, lamination, injection or milling of a suitable material. Thus, it is preferable that there is a small pressure drop (or RTD), not yet zero, from the upstream end of the filter segment to the downstream end of the filter segment.

The filter segment may comprise at least one filter channel (for air flow) extending along the filter segment. Preferably, at least one filter air flow channel extends along the entire length of the filter segment. At least one filter channel may have a substantially circular cross-section. At least one filter channel may have a substantially Y-shaped or T-shaped cross-section. The filter segment may comprise a plurality of such filter air flow channels extending along the filter segment. The filter segment may comprise at least three filter air flow channels. The presence of at least one filter air flow channel in the filter segment allows the filter segment to meet certain RTD values without losing the strength of the filter segment to withstand the capsule activation process.

The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of at least one filter channel to the total cross-sectional area of the filter segment may be at least 25%. In other words, the open area of the filter segment may be at least 25%. The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of at least one filter channel to the total cross-sectional area of the filter segment may be at least 50%. The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of at least one filter channel to the total cross-sectional area of the filter segment may be at least 75%. The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of at least one filter channel to the total cross-sectional area of the filter segment may be at least 80%. In addition, the filter segment itself may be porous. Providing a large proportion of filter channels or open area ensures that the RTD and RTD per unit length of the filter segment are low enough to ensure suitable consumption of the capsule.

Additionally, this also provides the possibility of a suitable rigid and durable material for the filter segment that can withstand the puncture force exerted on the capsule and filter segment, while also providing the possibility of providing low RTD characteristics.

The filter channels of the filter segment are preferably smaller than the capsule diameter. Accordingly, the width of the filter channel may be smaller than the capsule diameter. Such a capsule diameter refers to the largest diameter of the capsule. The width of the filter channel may be less than 6 mm, more preferably less than 5.5 mm, and even more preferably less than 5 mm.

The filter segment may not consist of a hollow tubular segment that defines a single unobstructed air flow path between its upstream and downstream ends and has a wall thickness of less than 1 mm. Such a hollow tubular segment would effectively provide an RTD and RTD per unit length of 0 mm of water. This value would be too small to provide a pleasant sensation for the user, and the hollow tubular segment may not be able to retain the capsule within the cavity during activation and use.

The Young's modulus (or elastic modulus) of the filter segment material may be greater than or at least approximately 10 MPa. Unless otherwise specified, the Young's modulus of the filter segment material is measured in accordance with ASTM E111-17. The Young's modulus (or elastic modulus) of the filter segment material may be greater than or at least approximately 20 MPa. The Young's modulus (or elastic modulus) of the filter segment material may be greater than or at least approximately 30 MPa. The Young's modulus (or elastic modulus) preferably refers to the Young's modulus of the component material along the longitudinal axis or direction of the component.

The capsule can be defined by having a certain piercing strength (in Newtons). The piercing strength of the capsule refers to a certain piercing or puncturing force (in Newtons) that is required to be applied to the capsule by a piercing element or needle in order to pierce or activate the capsule. Methods for measuring the piercing strength of the capsule are known to those skilled in the art. For example, the piercing strength of the capsule can be measured in accordance with ASTM F1306-16. The piercing element or needle can be from 27 gauge (outer diameter = 0.42 mm) to 4 gauge (outer diameter = 5 mm). For example, the piercing strength of the capsule provided as a sample can be measured using a piercing element or a hemispherical probe with a diameter of 3.2 mm (8 gauge).

The filter segment can be configured to withstand a force of at least approximately 50% of the capsule penetration strength applied to the upstream end of the filter segment without significant deformation. The filter segment can be configured to withstand a force of up to approximately 100% of the capsule penetration strength applied to the upstream end of the filter segment without significant deformation. The filter segment can be configured to withstand a force of up to approximately 200% of the capsule penetration strength applied to the upstream end of the filter segment without significant deformation. The filter segment can be configured to withstand a force of at least 50% of the capsule penetration strength to approximately 100% of the capsule penetration strength applied to the upstream end of the filter segment without significant deformation. The filter segment may be configured to withstand a force of at least 50% of the capsule's puncture strength to approximately 200% of the capsule's puncture strength applied to an upstream end of the filter segment without significant deformation.

The filter segment (or element) may extend from the cavity to the downstream end of the inhaler device. In other words, the length of the downstream section of the inhaler device is the same as the length of the filter segment.

The length of the filter segment may be greater than or at least approximately 10 mm. The length of the filter segment may be greater than or at least approximately 15 mm. The length of the filter segment may be greater than or at least approximately 20 mm. The length of the filter segment may be less than approximately 30 mm. The length of the filter segment may be approximately 10 mm to 30 mm. The length of the filter segment may be approximately 10 millimeters to approximately 20 millimeters.

Preferably, the length of the filter segment may be approximately 15 mm to 20 mm. The length of the filter segment may be approximately 17 mm.

The inhaler article may have an outer diameter in the range of about 6 mm to about 10 mm, or about 7 mm to about 10 mm, or about 7 mm to about 9 mm, or about 7 mm to about 8 mm, or about 7.2 mm. The inhaler article may have a length (along the longitudinal axis) in the range of about 40 mm to about 100 mm, or about 40 mm to about 80 mm, or about 40 mm to about 60 mm. Preferably, the length of the inhaler article is about 45 mm. Preferably, the length of the inhaler article is selected such that the mouthpiece end of the inhaler article protrudes from the holder of the inhalation system, which is described in more detail below.

An end plug (rear, forward, or upstream) may extend from the upstream end of the inhaler device to the cavity.

The end plug may define at least one air flow inlet (or air inlet) extending from an upstream end of the inhaler article or end plug to the cavity such that fluid communication is established between the cavity and the exterior of the inhaler article.

The end plug may define a central piercing channel extending from the distal end of the inhaler article to the capsule cavity. The end plug may comprise a central channel extending through the main part of the end plug. The central channel may be configured to provide access to the cavity for the piercing element, as described in the present invention. The central piercing channel of the end plug may be coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. The linear piercing channel may be configured with a size allowing the piercing element to pass through the linear piercing channel.

The end plug may comprise a resealable element located on or within the central channel. A resealable element, such as a septum or a resealable membrane, may be located at either end of the central piercing channel.

Advantageously, the provision of a piercing channel along the end plug allows for the capsule contained within the capsule cavity to be reliably pierced. In addition, the resealable element maintains the integrity of the required air flow structure within the capsule cavity.

The resealable element may seal the central channel. The resealable element may form a hermetic or airtight seal or barrier along the central channel. The central channel may be made of a pierceable material. The piercing element may pass through the resealable element and pierce the capsule in the capsule cavity. The resealable element may be resealed after the piercing element is pulled out or removed from the resealable element. The resealable elements or membranes may comprise a partition or a partition-like element. The resealable elements or membranes may be made of an elastic material such as rubber, silicone, metal foil with a polymer or latex layer, etc.

The end plug may comprise at least one air flow inlet channel allowing air to enter the cavity of the inhaler-type article.

At least one air flow inlet channel may extend in a direction that is tangential to the central channel. In such embodiments, air may enter the central channel via the side portion of the inhaler article. However, in the present invention, it is preferable that the air flow inlet channel extends along the main portion of the end plug in a direction that is not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article.

At least one air flow inlet channel can extend from the distal end or the distal end surface of the end plug to the inner end or the inner end surface of the end plug. The air flow inlet channel can extend along the length of the main part of the end plug. The air flow inlet channel can extend from the distal end or the distal end surface of the end plug to the inner end or the inner end surface of the end plug and define a curved, helical, spiral or arcuate trajectory. The air flow inlet channel can extend from the distal end or the distal end surface of the end plug to the inner end or the inner end surface of the end plug and define a curved, helical, spiral or arcuate trajectory along the outer surface of the main part of the end plug. At least one air flow inlet channel can extend both in the longitudinal direction along the end plug and in the circumferential direction around the end plug. In other words, at least one air flow inlet channel may extend in a direction that is not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the article in the form of an inhaler and an end plug. Accordingly, at least one air flow inlet channel may follow a spiral, helical, arcuate or curved profile along the outer surface of the main part of the end plug.

An air inlet channel, which is curved, helical, spiral or arcuate, can be designed to provide a swirled air flow structure inside the capsule cavity of the inhaler product. The air inlet channel can draw incoming air into the capsule cavity of the inhaler product from the distal end of the end plug. The air inlet channel can provide a rotational air flow or a swirled air flow, when air flows through the air inlet channels and through the capsule cavity. The air flow through the inhaler product preferably enters the inhaler product from the distal end surface or the distal end of the end plug of the inhaler product and moves along the longitudinal axis of the inhaler product to the mouth or the end located further downstream in the form of a swirled air flow structure. The inlet opening of the air flow channel can be formed in the distal end surface of the end plug. The distal end surface of the end plug may be orthogonal relative to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler-shaped product.

The air inlet channel may be constantly non-parallel to the longitudinal axis of the article in the form of an inhaler along the entire length of the air inlet channel. The air inlet channel may be parallel along a part of the length of the air inlet channel and non-parallel along the remaining part of the length of the air inlet channel. The air inlet channel may be parallel in the first part or an upstream part of the air inlet channel and non-parallel in the second part or a downstream part of the air inlet channel that opens into the cavity for the capsule. The second part may form approximately 50% or less, or from approximately 5% to approximately 50%, or from approximately 10% to approximately 30% of the total length of the air inlet channel.

The end plug may be inserted into the distal end of the inhaler article and may be secured to or within the inhaler article by a friction fit or an interference fit. A distal end portion of the inhaler article, such as a hollow tubular member (described below), may cooperate with the air inlet passage of the end plug to close the air inlet passage or to form the remainder of the air inlet passage.

The air inlet channel can extend over a distance along an arc, which is coaxial with the longitudinal axis. The air inlet channel can be curved relative to the longitudinal axis of the article in the form of an inhaler. The air inlet channel can extend along the circumference of the end plug, depending on the position along the end plug. The air inlet channel can extend along from about 5% to about 100% or from about 25% to about 50% of the circumference of the end plug. The air inlet channel can extend along the circumference of the end plug by the length of the arc (the distance when looking at the end plug from the far end surface) with a central angle (which can coincide with the longitudinal axis of the article in the form of an inhaler) in the range from about 5 degrees to about 360 degrees or from about 45 degrees to about 180 degrees, or from about 45 degrees to about 135 degrees.

The air inlet channel may enter the capsule cavity at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis. The air inlet channel may enter the capsule cavity at an angle in the range from about 5 degrees to about 89 degrees, or from about 45 degrees to about 89 degrees, or from about 60 degrees to about 89 degrees, or from about 70 degrees to about 88 degrees. The air inlet channel may have a first portion parallel to the longitudinal axis, and a second portion may exit into the capsule cavity at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis, as described above.

The end plug may comprise at least two or two or more air inlet channels formed in the main part of the end plug. The end plug may comprise at least three or three or more air inlet channels formed in the main part of the end plug. The air inlet channels may be arranged symmetrically relative to the end plug. The air inlet channels may be opposite to each other relative to the end plug along the length of the end plug. One or more air inlet channels may have a helical shape (forming part of a spiral). The helical air inlet channels may be arranged symmetrically along the length of the end plug and are preferably opposite to each other along the length of the end plug. Each of the air inlet channels may extend over a distance along an arc, each of which is coaxial with the longitudinal axis.

At least one air inlet channel (or air inlet opening) may comprise two air flow inlet channels configured to generate a swirling air flow within the cavity. This rotating or swirling air flow is transmitted to the capsule cavity of the inhaler-type article. The rotating or swirling air flow causes the capsule contained in the capsule cavity to rotate and release particles of the inhaled material into the rotating or swirling air flow, which is directed further along the flow path through the filter segment and to the consumer.

The end cap and the air inlet(s) defined thereon can be precisely designed and manufactured to impart the required air flow pattern through the capsule cavity of the inhaler product.

The main part of the inhaler article or "inhaler article" may have any suitable shape. The main part of the inhaler article or "inhaler article" may resemble a smoking article or a conventional cigarette in size and shape. The inhaler article may have a substantially uniform outer diameter along the length of the inhaler article. The inhaler article may have a substantially uniform inner diameter along the length of the inhaler article. The inhaler article may have any suitable cross-sectional shape. For example, the cross-section may be circular, elliptical, square or rectangular. The inhaler article preferably has a circular cross-section, which may be constant along the length of the inhaler article to form an elongated cylindrical main part.

The inhaler article may comprise a hollow tubular element extending from the upstream end of the inhaler article to the filter segment, so that the end plug and the capsule may be located inside the hollow tubular element. The hollow tubular element may be formed from a polymer or cellulose material or any other suitable material. The inhaler article may be formed from a biodegradable material. Preferably, the inhaler article may be formed from thick paper or cardboard. The hollow tubular element may have a uniform thickness along its length. The hollow tubular element may have a thickness in the range from about 1 mm to about 2 mm.

The end plug may comprise a rim portion having a larger diameter than the rest of the main portion of the end plug. The rim portion may function as a mechanical lock to ensure proper positioning of the end plug in the distal end portion of the hollow tubular element. The rim portion may adjoin the elongated article in the form of an inhaler. The rim portion may have a diameter that is from about 0.5 mm to about 1 mm larger than the diameter of the rest of the main portion of the end plug. The rim portion may have a diameter that is substantially similar or the same as the outer diameter of the hollow tubular element or the article in the form of an inhaler.

The inhaler article may comprise a filter wrapper surrounding a filter segment of a downstream section. The inhaler article may comprise a wrapper or wrapper of the inhaler article surrounding the hollow tubular element and the downstream section. The wrapper may secure the downstream section in axial alignment with the end plug. The wrapper may be formed from a biodegradable material. The wrapper may be formed from a paper wrapper.

The end plug may have a length in the range of about 3 mm to about 12 mm, or about 4 mm to about 10 mm, or about 5 mm to about 9 mm, or about 8 mm. The end plug may have an outer diameter sufficient to form a tight or friction fit with the inner diameter of the hollow tubular element. The end plug may have an outer diameter in the range of about 5 mm to about 10 mm, or about 6 mm to about 9 mm, or about 6.5 mm to about 8.5 mm, or about 7.5 mm. The length of the central channel may be equal to the length of the end plug.

The end plug may be located at the distal end of the main part. The end plug may define the distal end of the article in the form of an inhaler. Preferably, at least one air inlet of the end plug is located near the distal or upstream end of the article in the form of an inhaler. The central channel may comprise a first end defining the upstream boundary of the cavity for the capsule, and a second opposite end defining the distal end of the main part of the article in the form of an inhaler. Preferably, the second opposite end defines the open distal end of the main part of the article in the form of an inhaler. The central channel may extend along the longitudinal axis of the article in the form of an inhaler and define an opening at the distal end of the article in the form of an inhaler, which is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the article in the form of an inhaler.

Preferably, the end plug may comprise an open opening along the longitudinal axis and may not have a member blocking or closing the open distal end of the inhaler article to reduce the complexity of the inhaler article. The user may simply close or block the open distal end with the holder or the user's finger to direct the inhaled air flow substantially through the air inlet openings on the inhaler article once the capsule has been punctured.

Preferably, the end plug is formed from a biodegradable material. Preferably, the end plug comprises a fibrous material. Preferably, the end plug is made of a porous material. Preferably, the end plug is made of a cellulose material, such as acetyl cellulose. Preferably, the end plug is formed from a material based on polylactic acid. Advantageously, the end plug can be formed from materials used for assembling conventional cigarettes. Advantageously, the article in the form of an inhaler can be formed from biodegradable materials.

The air flow passing through the inhaler article preferably enters the inhaler article via the upstream end of the inhaler article through the air flow inlet channels and then along the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article, through the capsule cavity and the filter segment for exiting through the mouthpiece or the downstream end of the inhaler article.

The central channel may have a uniform internal or open diameter extending from the capsule cavity to the open distal end or the end located earliest in the flow direction of the inhaler article. The central channel may have a diameter that is at least about 50% or at least about 70%, or at least about 75% of the diameter of the inhaler article. The central channel may have a diameter in the range from about 3 mm to about 6.5 mm, or from about 4 mm to about 6 mm, or from about 5 mm to about 6 mm, or about 5.5 mm. Alternatively, the central channel may have a diameter in the range from about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm.

Preferably, the capsule is retained within the capsule cavity. The central channel may have a uniform diameter extending from the capsule cavity to the open distal end or the end located earliest downstream of the inhaler article or end plug. The central channel may have a diameter that is at least about 50% or at least about 70%, or at least about 75% of the diameter of the distal end of the main part. The central channel of the end plug may have a diameter that is in the range from about 50% to about 90% of the diameter of the capsule retained in the capsule cavity. Such a size of the central channel ensures that the capsule cannot fall out of the inhaler article through the central channel of the end plug.

As discussed above, the end cap may provide a rotating air flow or a swirling air flow when air is drawn through the air flow inlet channels of the end cap and through the capsule cavity. Advantageously, this swirling air flow created by the air flow inlet channels of the end cap is useful for efficient consumption of the capsule during consumption after puncturing the capsule. Advantageously, the "swirling" effect may cause shaking or rotation of the capsule to ensure that a portion or fraction of nicotine particles from the capsule are uniformly captured over two or more or five or more or ten or more inhalations or "puffs" by the user.

The inhalable material may contain nicotine. Preferably, the capsule contains pharmaceutically active particles.

The pharmaceutically active particles may comprise nicotine. The pharmaceutically active particles may have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of about 5 micrometers or less, or in the range of about 0.5 micrometers to about 4 micrometers, or in the range of about 1 micrometer to about 3 micrometers.

Preferably, the inhaler product effectively delivers nicotine particles to the lungs at inhalation or air flow rates that are within the inhalation or air flow rates of a typical smoking regime. The inhaler delivers the nicotine product using an inhaler product that is shaped like a typical cigarette. The inhaler product or inhalation system described herein can deliver dry powder to the lungs at inhalation or air flow rates that are within the inhalation or air flow rates of a typical smoking regime. The consumer can take multiple inhalations or "puffs," with each "puff" delivering a small amount of dry powder contained within a capsule contained within a capsule cavity. The inhaler product can be shaped like a typical cigarette and can simulate the process of typical smoking. The inhaler product can be simple to manufacture and convenient for the consumer to use.

Directing the air flow through the capsule cavity of the inhaler product may cause the capsule contained therein to rotate during inhalation and consumption. The capsule may contain particles containing nicotine (also referred to as "nicotine powder" or "nicotine particles") and optionally particles containing a flavoring substance (also referred to as "flavoring particles"). Rotation of the punctured capsule may cause the nicotine particles released from the punctured capsule to be suspended and aerosolized into the inhaled air moving through the inhaler product. The flavoring particles may be larger than the nicotine particles and may facilitate the transport of nicotine particles into the user's lungs, while the flavoring particles preferably remain in the user's oral or buccal cavity. The nicotine particles and optionally the flavor particles may be delivered by the inhaler product at inhalation or air flow rates that are within the inhalation or air flow rates of normal smoking.

The term "nicotine" refers to nicotine and nicotine derivatives such as pure nicotine, nicotine salts, etc.

The term "flavoring agent" or "flavoring substance" refers to organoleptic compounds, compositions or materials that modify and are intended to modify the taste or aroma characteristics of nicotine during its consumption or inhalation.

According to another aspect of the present invention, an inhalation system is provided, comprising an article in the form of an inhaler, as described herein, and a holder for accommodating the article in the form of an inhaler. The holder comprises a casing defining a cavity of the casing, made with the possibility of accommodating the article in the form of an inhaler. The holder comprises a piercing element made with the possibility of passing into the cavity of the casing and piercing the capsule of the article in the form of an inhaler.

The holder may contain a piercing element extending into the cavity of the casing, designed with the possibility of piercing the capsule of the product in the form of an inhaler.

A holder for an inhaler product may be combined with an inhaler product (described herein) containing a capsule to activate the inhaler product by puncturing the capsule, which ensures reliable activation of the capsule (by puncturing the capsule with the puncturing element of the holder) inside the inhaler product and release of particles contained inside the capsule and enabling the product to deliver the particles to the consumer. The holder is separate from the inhaler product, but the consumer may use both the inhaler product and the holder when consuming particles released inside the inhaler product. A plurality of these inhaler products may be combined with the holder to form a system or kit. One holder may be used on 10 or more, or 25 or more, or 50 or more, or 100 or more, inhaler-type articles to activate (puncture or pierce) the capsule contained within each inhaler-type article and provide reliable activation, and optionally a visual indication (marking) for each inhaler-type article of activation of the inhaler-type article.

The holder for the product in the form of an inhaler comprises a casing comprising a casing cavity for accommodating the product in the form of an inhaler, and a sleeve configured to hold the product in the form of an inhaler inside the casing cavity. The sleeve comprises a sleeve cavity and is configured to move inside the casing cavity along the longitudinal axis of the casing. The sleeve comprises a first open end and a second opposite end. The first open end is configured to accommodate the distal end of the product in the form of an inhaler. The second opposite end of the sleeve is configured to contact the distal end of the product in the form of an inhaler. The second opposite end of the sleeve is configured to direct substantially all inhaled air to pass through the product in the form of an inhaler, through at least one air inlet opening extending in a direction that is not parallel to the central channel.

The inhalation system comprises the article described in this document in the form of an inhaler with a capsule located inside the cavity for the capsule, and a holder in which the article in the form of an inhaler is placed. The holder comprises a casing having a casing cavity for accommodating the article in the form of an inhaler, and a sleeve configured to hold the article in the form of an inhaler inside the casing cavity. The sleeve comprises a sleeve cavity, and the sleeve is configured to move inside the casing cavity along the longitudinal axis of the casing. The sleeve comprises a first open end and a second opposite end. The first open end is configured to accommodate the article in the form of an inhaler, and the second opposite end of the sleeve is configured to contact the distal end of the article in the form of an inhaler.

The method includes inserting the inhaler article into the sleeve of the holder for the inhaler article, as described in this document, until the distal end of the inhaler article contacts the second opposite end of the sleeve. The inhaler article has a main part, wherein the main part extends along the longitudinal axis of the inhaler from the mouthpiece end to the distal end, the length of the main part and a capsule placed inside the main part of the inhaler article. Then moving the inhaler article and the sleeve in the direction of the piercing element until the piercing element pierces the capsule. Then drawing air into the second opposite end of the holder sleeve to direct the inhaled air flow into the air inlet openings on the inhaler article to form a rotational or swirling air flow through the cavity of the inhaler article. This swirling inhaled air flow is transferred to the capsule cavity while the inhaler product is positioned inside the inhaler product holder. The consumed inhaler product can then be removed from the holder and discarded. A new inhaler product can then be inserted into the holder and the process repeated.

The inhaler article described herein may be combined with a piercing element or a holder containing a piercing element for delivering nicotine particles from a capsule to a user. The piercing element or piercing device (or holder) may be separate from or not form a part of the inhaler article. Several inhaler articles may be combined with a piercing element or piercing device (or holder) to form a kit.

The holder comprises a casing having a casing cavity for accommodating an article in the form of an inhaler, and a sleeve configured to hold the article in the form of an inhaler inside the casing cavity. The sleeve comprises a sleeve cavity, and the sleeve is configured to move inside the casing cavity along the longitudinal axis of the casing. The sleeve comprises a first open end and a second opposite end. The first open end is configured to accommodate the article in the form of an inhaler, and the second opposite end of the sleeve is configured to contact the distal end of the article in the form of an inhaler.

Preferably, the second opposite end of the sleeve is configured to direct substantially all of the inhaled air to pass through the inhaler article, at least one air inlet opening extending in a direction that is not parallel to the central channel.

Advantageously, the holder can cooperate with the inhaler article to direct substantially all of the inhaled air flow through the air inlet openings of the end plug of the inhaler article.

Preferably, the holder additionally comprises a piercing element attached to the inner surface of the casing and extending from it. The piercing element is designed with the possibility of passing through the second opposite end of the sleeve and into the cavity for the capsule for piercing the capsule along the longitudinal axis of the casing.

The capsule may be sealed inside the inhaler product prior to consumption. For transportation and storage, the inhaler product may be contained within a sealed or airtight container or bag. The inhaler product may comprise one or more peelable sealing layers to cover one or more air inlet channels at the distal end or an air outlet at the mouthpiece end of the inhaler product. This may ensure that the inhaler product maintains proper hygiene and freshness or may prevent the capsule from drying out and becoming hard and brittle.

The capsule may rotate about its longitudinal or central axis when air is drawn through the inhaler article. The capsule may be formed from an air-impermeable material that substantially retains particles within the capsule. The capsule may be designed to be pierced or punctured by a piercing element when the capsule is in the capsule cavity. The piercing element may be separate or integrated with the inhaler article. The capsule may be formed from any suitable material. The capsule may be formed from a metal or polymeric material that serves to retain contaminants outside the capsule, but may be pierced or punctured by a piercing element prior to consumption to allow the release of nicotine particles from the interior of the capsule. The capsule may be formed from a polymeric material. The polymeric material may be hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). The capsule may be of any suitable size. The capsule can be a size 1-4 capsule, or a size 3 capsule, or a size 3 capsule.

The system may comprise a separate piercing element, such as a metal or rigid needle. The piercing element may form a single opening through the capsule located in the capsule cavity. The piercing element may be designed to pass through the end plug, more precisely through its central piercing channel, and into the capsule cavity.

A holder for an inhaler product may be combined with an inhaler product (as described herein) containing a capsule to activate the inhaler product by puncturing the capsule, which ensures reliable activation of the capsule (by puncturing the capsule with the puncturing element of the holder) inside the inhaler product and release of particles contained inside the capsule and enabling the product to deliver the particles to the consumer. The holder is separate from the inhaler product, but the consumer may use both the inhaler product and the holder when consuming particles released inside the inhaler product. A plurality of these inhaler products may be combined with the holder to form a system or kit. One holder may be used on 10 or more, or 25 or more, or 50 or more, or 100 or more, inhaler-type articles to activate (puncture or pierce) the capsule contained within each inhaler-type article and provide reliable activation, and optionally a visual indication (marking) for each inhaler-type article of activation of the inhaler-type article.

The holder for the product in the form of an inhaler comprises a casing comprising a casing cavity for accommodating the product in the form of an inhaler, and a sleeve configured to hold the product in the form of an inhaler inside the casing cavity. The sleeve comprises a sleeve cavity and is configured to move inside the casing cavity along the longitudinal axis of the casing. The sleeve comprises a first open end and a second opposite end. The first open end is configured to accommodate the distal or upstream end of the product in the form of an inhaler. The second opposite end of the sleeve is configured to contact the distal end of the product in the form of an inhaler. The second opposite end of the sleeve is configured to direct substantially all inhaled air to pass through the product in the form of an inhaler, at least one air inlet opening extending in a direction that is not parallel to the central channel of the end plug.

The inhalation system may comprise the article described in this document in the form of an inhaler with a capsule located inside the cavity for the capsule, and a holder in which the article in the form of an inhaler is placed. The holder comprises a casing having a casing cavity for accommodating the article in the form of an inhaler, and a sleeve configured to hold the article in the form of an inhaler inside the casing cavity. The sleeve comprises a sleeve cavity, and the sleeve is configured to move inside the casing cavity along the longitudinal axis of the casing. The sleeve comprises a first open end and a second opposite end. The first open end is configured to accommodate the article in the form of an inhaler, and the second opposite end of the sleeve is configured to contact the distal end of the article in the form of an inhaler.

The holder may further comprise a piercing element attached to the inner surface of the casing and extending from it. The piercing element may be configured to pass through the second opposite end of the sleeve and into the cavity for the capsule to pierce the capsule along the longitudinal axis of the casing.

The holder may further comprise a spring element configured to shift the sleeve in the direction of the open proximal end of the casing and between the relaxed and compressed positions. The spring element may be contained within the cavity of the casing (also referred to as the cavity for the inhaler-type article) of the holder and compressed as the movable sleeve and the inhaler-type article move in the direction of the piercing element.

The spring element may be located between the bushing and the distal end of the casing and be in contact with the bushing and the distal end of the casing. The spring element may be located between the distal end of the bushing and the distal end of the casing. The spring element may be in contact with the distal end of the bushing and the distal end of the casing. The spring element may be placed around the piercing element. The spring element may be coaxial with the piercing element. The spring element may be a conical spring.

The spring element biases the inhaler product away from the piercing element. When used, the user may insert the inhaler product into the inhaler product cavity of the holder. The spring may be compressed, allowing the inhaler product to move toward the far end of the inhaler product cavity. Ultimately, the piercing element may penetrate the capsule located inside the inhaler product. The user may then release the inhaler product, allowing the spring to bias the inhaler product toward the near end of the inhaler product cavity and away from the piercing element. The user may then inhale at the near end of the inhaler product.

The sleeve may define a first air inlet zone comprising at least one air opening passing through the sleeve. The first air inlet zone is located near the near end of the sleeve. The first air inlet zone is configured to provide air flow from the inner part of the sleeve into the air flow channel formed between the sleeve and the inner surface of the casing. The sleeve may comprise a second air inlet zone comprising at least one air opening passing through the sleeve. The second air inlet zone is located near the far end of the sleeve. The second air inlet zone is configured to provide air flow from the air flow channel into the inner part of the sleeve.

The holder may comprise a marking element that extends into the cavity of the casing (or the article in the form of an inhaler). The marking element may be designed to mark the surface of the article in the form of an inhaler. The marking element may extend orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the holder or the article in the form of an inhaler. The marking element may be designed to mechanically mark the outer surface of the article in the form of an inhaler. For example, the marking element may be designed to scratch, incise, scrape, notch, fold or bend the outer surface of the article in the form of an inhaler. The marking element may have a sharp end designed to scratch the outer surface of the inhaler when placed inside the cavity of the casing. The marking element may apply color to the outer surface of the article in the form of an inhaler when it is placed in the cavity of the casing. The marking element may mark the outer surface of the inhaler product when the piercing element penetrates the capsule placed inside the inhaler product. This indicates that the inhaler product has been activated and can be consumed by the user. This may also advantageously prevent the user from attempting to reuse the inhaler product that has already been activated.

The marking element may extend orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the holder or the article in the form of an inhaler. The marking element may be formed from a rigid material designed to provide a visual indication that the marking element was in contact with the outer surface of the inhaler. The marking element may be attached to the casing of the holder. The marking element may form a mounting pin, as described above.

The marking element can pass through at least a part of the thickness of the holder. The marking element can pass through the sleeve. The marking element can pass into the cavity of the casing and into the sleeve. The marking element can extend beyond at least the sleeve by a marking distance, so that the marking element is in contact with the outer surface of the inhaler when the article in the form of an inhaler is placed inside the cavity of the casing. The marking element can be aligned with and coupled with the elongated slot of the sleeve.

The capsule may contain pharmaceutically active particles containing nicotine (also referred to as "nicotine powder" or "nicotine particles") and optionally particles containing a flavoring substance (also referred to as "flavoring particles"). The capsule may contain a predetermined amount of nicotine particles and optional flavoring particles. The capsule may contain a sufficient amount of nicotine particles to provide at least 2 inhalations or "puffs" or at least about 5 inhalations or "puffs" or at least about 10 inhalations or "puffs". The capsule may have a sufficient amount of nicotine particles to provide from about 5 to about 50 inhalations or "puffs" or from about 10 to about 30 inhalations or "puffs". Each inhalation or "puff" can deliver from about 0.1 mg to about 3 mg of nicotine particles into the user's lungs, or from about 0.2 mg to about 2 mg of nicotine particles into the user's lungs, or about 1 mg of nicotine particles into the user's lungs.

The nicotine particles may have any suitable concentration of nicotine based on the particular formulation used. The nicotine particles may contain from at least about 1% by weight nicotine up to about 30% by weight nicotine, or from about 2% by weight to about 25% by weight nicotine, or from about 3% by weight to about 20% by weight nicotine, or from about 4% by weight to about 15% by weight nicotine, or from about 5% by weight to about 13% by weight nicotine. Preferably, each inhalation or "puff" may deliver from about 50 to about 150 micrograms of nicotine to the user's lungs.

The capsule may contain or include at least about 5 mg of nicotine particles or at least about 10 mg of nicotine particles. The capsule may contain or include less than about 900 mg of nicotine particles or less than about 300 mg of nicotine particles, or less than 150 mg of nicotine particles. The capsule may contain or include from about 5 mg to about 300 mg of nicotine particles or from about 10 mg to about 200 mg of nicotine particles.

When flavor particles are mixed or combined in a capsule with nicotine particles, the flavor particles may be present in an amount that ensures that the desired flavor is delivered to the user with each inhalation or "puff."

The nicotine particles may have any suitable size distribution for delivery by inhalation preferably to the user's lungs. The capsule may contain particles other than nicotine particles. The nicotine particles and other particles may form a powder system.

The capsule may contain or hold at least about 5 mg of dry powder (also referred to as a powder system) or at least about 10 mg of dry powder. The capsule may contain or hold less than about 900 mg of dry powder or less than about 300 mg of dry powder, or less than about 150 mg of dry powder. The capsule may contain or hold from about 5 mg to about 300 mg of dry powder or from about 10 mg to about 200 mg of dry powder, or from about 25 mg to about 100 mg of dry powder.

The dry powder or powder system may have at least about 40%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 80% by weight of the powder system contained in nicotine particles having a particle size of about 5 micrometers or less, or in the range of about 1 micrometer to about 5 micrometers.

The nicotine-containing particles may have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of about 5 micrometers or less, or in the range of about 0.5 micrometers to about 4 micrometers, or in the range of about 1 micrometer to about 3 micrometers, or in the range of about 1.5 micrometers to about 2.5 micrometers. The mass median aerodynamic diameter is preferably measured using a cascade impactor.

The particles containing the flavoring substance may have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of about 20 micrometers or more, or about 50 micrometers or more, or in the range of about 50 to about 200 micrometers, or about 50 to about 150 micrometers. The mass median aerodynamic diameter is preferably measured using a cascade impactor.

The dry powder may have an average diameter of about 60 micrometers or less, or in the range of about 1 micrometer to about 40 micrometers, or in the range of about 1.5 micrometers to about 25 micrometers. The average diameter refers to the average diameter per unit mass, and is preferably measured using laser diffraction, laser diffusion, or an electron microscope.

The nicotine in the nicotine powder system or particles may be pharmaceutically acceptable free nicotine or a nicotine salt or a nicotine salt hydrate. Suitable nicotine salts or nicotine salt hydrates include, for example, nicotine pyruvate, nicotine citrate, nicotine aspartate, nicotine lactate, nicotine bitartrate, nicotine salicylate, nicotine fumarate, nicotine monopyruvate, nicotine glutamate or nicotine hydrochloride. The compound combined with nicotine to form a salt or salt hydrate may be selected based on its expected pharmacological effect.

The nicotine particles preferably comprise an amino acid. Preferably, the amino acid may be leucine, such as L-leucine. By providing an amino acid, such as L-leucine, with the nicotine-containing particles, the adhesive forces of the nicotine-containing particles can be reduced, and the attraction between the nicotine particles can be reduced, and thus the agglomeration of the nicotine particles can be reduced. Similarly, the adhesive forces to the flavor-containing particles can also be reduced, and thus the agglomeration of the nicotine particles with the flavor particles is reduced. The powder system described herein can thus be a free-flowing material and have a stable relative particle size of each powder component even when the nicotine particles and the flavor particles are combined.

Preferably, the nicotine may be a surface-modified nicotine salt, wherein the nicotine salt particle comprises a coated particle or a composite particle. A preferred coating material or composite material may be L-leucine. One particularly useful nicotine particle may be nicotine bitartrate with L-leucine.

The powder system may contain a plurality of flavor particles. The flavor particles may have any suitable size distribution for delivery upon inhalation selectively to the oral or buccal cavity of the user.

The powder system may contain at least about 40%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 80% by weight of a plurality of particles of the flavoring substance of the powder system contained in particles having a particle size of about 20 micrometers or more. The powder system may contain at least about 40%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 80% by weight of a plurality of particles of the flavoring substance of the powder system contained in particles having a particle size of about 50 micrometers or more. The powder system may contain at least about 40%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 80% by weight of a plurality of particles of the flavoring substance of the powder system contained in particles having a particle size in the range from about 50 micrometers to about 150 micrometers.

The flavor-containing particles may comprise a compound for reducing the adhesive forces or surface energy and the resulting agglomeration. The flavor-containing particle may be surface-modified with a compound for reducing adhesion to form a coated flavor-containing particle. One preferred compound for reducing adhesion may be magnesium stearate. By providing a compound for reducing adhesion, such as magnesium stearate, to the flavor-containing particles, in particular by coating the flavor-containing particles, the adhesive forces of the flavor-containing particles may be reduced and the attraction between the flavor-containing particles may be reduced and, thus, the agglomeration of the flavor-containing particles may be reduced. Thus, the agglomeration of the flavor-containing particles with the nicotine particles may also be reduced. The powder system described herein can thus have a stable relative particle size of the nicotine-containing particles and the flavor-containing particles, even when the nicotine particles and the flavor-containing particles are combined. The powder system can preferably be free-flowing.

Conventional dry powder inhalation formulations contain carrier particles that serve to enhance fluidization of the active particles, since the active particles may be too small to be exposed to the air flow through the inhaler alone. The powder system may contain carrier particles. These carrier particles may be a saccharide such as lactose or mannitol, which may have a particle size greater than about 50 micrometers. The carrier particles may be used to improve dose uniformity by acting as a diluent or bulking agent in the formulation.

A powder system used with the nicotine powder delivery system described herein may be free of a carrier or substantially free of a saccharide, such as lactose or mannitol. The absence of a carrier or substantially free of a saccharide, such as lactose or mannitol, may allow nicotine to be inhaled and delivered to the user's lungs at inhalation or air flow rates that are similar to inhalation or air flow rates in a typical smoking regimen.

The nicotine particles and the flavoring agent may be combined in a single capsule. As described above, both the nicotine particles and the flavoring agent may have reduced adhesion forces, resulting in a stable particle composition in which the particle size of each component does not change substantially upon combination. Alternatively, the powder system comprises nicotine particles contained in one capsule and flavoring agent particles contained in a second capsule.

The nicotine particles and the flavor particles may be combined in any suitable relative amount so that the flavor particles are perceived by the user when consuming the nicotine particles. Preferably, the nicotine particles and the flavor particles comprise at least about 90 wt.%, or at least about 95 wt.%, or at least about 99 wt.%, or 100 wt.% of the total weight of the powder system.

The inhaler and inhalation system may be less complex and have a simplified air flow path compared to conventional dry powder inhalers. Preferably, the rotation of the capsule within the inhaler product results in the aerosolization of the nicotine particles or powder system and may help maintain a free-flowing powder. Thus, the inhaler product may not require the increased inhalation rates typically used in conventional inhalers to deliver the above-described nicotine particles deep into the lungs.

The inhaler product may use a flow rate of less than about 5 L/min, or less than about 3 L/min, or less than about 2 L/min, or about 1.6 L/min. Preferably, the flow rate may be in the range of about 1 L/min to about 3 L/min or about 1.5 L/min to about 2.5 L/min. Preferably, the inhalation rate or flow rate is close to the Health Canada smoking regimen value, which is about 1.6 L/min.

The inhalation system may be used by the consumer in a manner similar to smoking a conventional cigarette or vaping an electronic cigarette. Such smoking or vaping may be characterized by two stages: a first stage in which a small volume containing the entire amount of nicotine required by the consumer is drawn into the oral cavity, followed by a second stage in which this small volume containing an aerosol containing the required amount of nicotine is further diluted with fresh air and drawn deeper into the lungs. Both stages are controlled by the consumer. During the first stage of inhalation, the consumer can set the amount of nicotine to be inhaled. During the second stage, the consumer can set the volume to dilute the first volume to be drawn deeper into the lungs, maximizing the concentration of the active agent delivered to the surface of the respiratory tract epithelium. This smoking mechanism is sometimes called "puff-inhale-exhale".

The dry powder used in conjunction with the dry powder inhaler of the invention may eliminate or substantially reduce any exhalation of pharmaceutically active particles during the "exhalation" phase. Preferably, substantially all or at least about 99%, or at least about 95%, or at least 90% of the pharmaceutically active particles have a particle size that provides delivery to the lungs, but is not small enough to be exhaled during quiet breathing. The size of the pharmaceutically active particles may be in the range of from about 0.75 micrometers to about 5 micrometers, or from 0.8 micrometers to about 3 micrometers, or from 0.8 micrometers to about 2 micrometers.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

Example 1. An article in the form of an inhaler having an upstream end and a downstream end, wherein the article in the form of an inhaler comprises an upstream section, wherein the upstream section comprises an end plug; a downstream section located downstream relative to the upstream section and at a distance from the upstream section, wherein the downstream section comprises a filter segment, a mouthpiece segment, a support segment, a downstream segment, or a retaining segment, wherein the draw resistance per unit length of the filter segment, mouthpiece segment, support segment, downstream segment, or retaining segment is greater than 0 millimeters of water per millimeter and less than 3 millimeters of water per millimeter; a cavity defined between the upstream section and the downstream section, wherein the cavity can be configured to be in fluid communication with the outside of the inhaler article; and a capsule containing an inhalable material, wherein the capsule is located in the cavity.

Example 2. An article in the form of an inhaler according to example 1, where the draw resistance per unit length of the filter segment, the mouthpiece segment, the support segment located further along the flow of the segment or the holding segment is greater than 0 millimeters of water per millimeter and less than 1 millimeter of water per millimeter.

Example 3. An article in the form of an inhaler according to example 1 or 2, wherein the filter segment, the mouthpiece segment, the support segment, the downstream segment, or the holding segment is designed to withstand a force of up to 15 newtons applied to its upstream end without significant deformation.

Example 4. An article in the form of an inhaler according to any previous example, wherein the Young's modulus of the material of the filter segment, mouthpiece segment, support segment, downstream segment or retention segment is greater than or at least 10 MPa.

Example 5. An article in the form of an inhaler according to any previous example, where the draw resistance of the filter segment, the mouthpiece segment, the support segment, the downstream segment, or the holding segment is greater than 0 millimeters of water and less than 10 millimeters of water.

Example 6. An article in the form of an inhaler according to any previous example, wherein the length of the filter segment, the mouthpiece segment, the support segment, the downstream segment, or the retention segment is from 10 millimeters to 20 millimeters.

Example 7. The inhaler article of any preceding example, wherein the filter segment, mouthpiece segment, support segment, downstream segment, or retaining segment extends from the cavity to the downstream end of the inhaler article.

Example 8. An inhaler article according to any preceding example, further comprising a hollow tubular member extending from an upstream end of the inhaler article to a filter segment, a mouthpiece segment, a support segment, a downstream segment, or a retaining segment, wherein the end plug and the capsule are located within the hollow tubular member.

Example 9. The inhaler article of example 8, wherein the inhaler article comprises a wrapping material surrounding the hollow tubular member and the downstream section, wherein the wrapping material secures the downstream section in axial alignment with the hollow tubular member.

Example 10. An inhaler article according to any preceding example, wherein the end plug defines at least one air flow inlet passage extending from an upstream end of the end plug to the cavity such that fluid communication is established between the cavity and the exterior of the inhaler article.

Example 11. An article in the form of an inhaler according to example 10, where at least one inlet channel for an air flow comprises two inlet channels for an air flow, designed with the possibility of creating a swirling air flow inside the cavity.

Example 12. An article in the form of an inhaler according to any previous example, wherein the filter segment, mouthpiece segment, support segment, downstream segment or retention segment comprises at least one air flow channel of the filter extending along the filter segment, mouthpiece segment, support segment, downstream segment or retention segment.

Example 13. An article in the form of an inhaler according to any example, wherein the inhaled material contains nicotine.

Example 14. An article in the form of an inhaler according to any previous example, wherein the end plug comprises a central channel passing through the end plug, wherein the central channel is designed with the possibility of providing access to the cavity for the piercing element.

Example 15. An inhalation system comprising an article in the form of an inhaler according to any of the previous examples and a holder for placing the article in the form of an inhaler, wherein the holder comprises a casing defining a cavity of the casing made with the possibility of placing the article in the form of an inhaler; and a piercing element made with the possibility of passing into the cavity of the casing and piercing the capsule of the article in the form of an inhaler.

The invention will now be further described with reference to the figures, in which:

Fig. 1 shows a cross-sectional image of a product in the form of an inhaler according to the present invention;

Fig. 2 is a perspective view in section of the article in the form of an inhaler according to the present invention;

Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an inhalation system according to the present invention;

Fig. 4 is a plan view of the inhalation system; and Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 are each front elevation views of different embodiments of a filter segment used in the inhaler article of the present invention.

Fig. 1 and 2 show an article 10 in the form of an inhaler according to the present invention. The article 10 in the form of an inhaler extends between its upstream end 1 and its downstream (brought to the mouth) end 2. The article 10 in the form of an inhaler comprises an upstream section 3 and a downstream section 4, located downstream relative to the upstream section 3 and at a distance from the upstream section 3. A cavity 7, designed to accommodate a capsule 9 containing an inhalable material, is located between the upstream and downstream sections 3, 4 of the article 10 in the form of an inhaler. The inhalable material contains nicotine.

As shown in Fig. 1 and 2, the upstream section 3 comprises an end plug 5, and the downstream section 4 comprises a filter segment 6. The end plug 5 extends from the upstream end 1 of the inhaler article 10 to the cavity 7 or an upstream portion thereof. The filter segment 6 extends from the cavity 7 or a downstream portion thereof to the downstream end 2 of the inhaler article 10.

The article 10 in the form of an inhaler additionally comprises a hollow tubular element 12, a filter wrapper 14 surrounding a filter segment 6, and a common wrapper 8 covering both the hollow tubular element 12 and the filter segment 6. The hollow tubular member 12 comprises both an end plug 5 and a cavity 7. The hollow tubular member 12, the downstream end of the end plug 5 of the upstream section 3, and the upstream end of the filter segment 6 define the cavity 7. The end plug 5 is retained to the hollow tubular member 12 by a tight fit or friction fit provided between the end plug 5 and the hollow tubular member 12. The downstream end of the hollow tubular member 12 is adjacent to the upstream end of the filter segment 6 of the downstream section 4. The filter segment 6 and the filter wrap 14 together form the downstream section 4. The common wrap 8 surrounds both the hollow tubular member 12 and the downstream section 4. The wrap 8 secures section 4 located further downstream in axial alignment with hollow tubular element 12.

In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1 and 2, the overall length of the inhaler article 10 is approximately 45 mm. The length of the end plug 5 is approximately 8 mm, the length of the cavity 7 is approximately 20 mm, and the length of the filter segment 6 is approximately 17 mm. The length of the hollow tubular element 12 surrounding both the end plug 5 and the cavity 7 is from approximately 25 mm to approximately 28 mm. The inner diameter of the hollow tubular element 12 is approximately 6.6 mm, and the outer diameter of the hollow tubular element 12 is approximately 7.1 mm. The length of the wrapping material 8 is approximately 45 mm. The length of the filter wrap 14 is approximately 17 mm. The diameter of the inhaler article 10 is approximately 7 mm. The relative RTD or RTD per unit length of the filter segment 6 is approximately 0.02 mm of water per mm. The RTD of filter segment 6 is approximately 0.34 mm of water. The diameter of capsule 9 is approximately 6 mm, and the length of capsule 9 is approximately 16 mm.

The end plug 5 forms a central channel or passage 55 passing through the centre of the main part of the end plug 5 from the upstream end of the end plug 5. The central channel 55 of the end plug 5 is open at the upstream end and is closed by a resealable element 54 at its downstream end. The downstream end of the central channel 55 and the resealable element 54 adjoin the cavity 7. The central channel 55 of the end plug 5 is configured to provide access to the cavity 7 for a piercing element shown in Fig. 3. Such a piercing element is configured to pierce the membrane 54 and pass into the cavity 7 and pierce or puncture the capsule 9 in order to activate it for consumption. The length of the central channel 55 is the same as the length of the end plug 5. The diameter of the central channel 55 is less than approximately 6 mm. The central channel is designed to accommodate a piercing element or needle from 27 gauge (outer diameter = 0.42 mm) to 4 gauge (outer diameter = 5 mm).

The end plug 5 comprises at least one inlet channel 51, 52 for an air flow, passing from the end of the end plug 5 located upstream of the flow to the cavity 7, so that a fluid communication can be established between the cavity 7 and the outer part of the article 10 in the form of an inhaler. As shown in Fig. 2, at least one air flow channel comprises two inlet channels 51, 52 for air flow, passing along a spiral or helical trajectory along and partially around the outer surface of the end plug 5. The inlet channels 51, 52 pass both in the longitudinal and in the circumferential directions defined by the end plug 5. In other words, each of the inlet channels 51, 52 passes in a direction that deviates from a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the article 10 in the form of an inhaler and the end plug 5. Thus, the inlet channels 51, 52 are not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the article 10 in the form of an inhaler. The inlet channels 51, 52 pass along a helical trajectory around the end plug 7. As a result, the inlet channels 51, 52 are designed with the possibility of generating a swirling air flow inside the cavity 7. The swirling air flow is intended for shaking and rotating the capsule 9 inside the cavity 7, as a result of which the inhaled material, after puncturing the capsule 9, is released further along the flow in the direction of the mouthpiece or the end 2 of the article 10 in the form of an inhaler located further along the flow.

Fig. 3 and 4 show an inhalation system 100 comprising an article 10 in the form of an inhaler and a holder or device 120 for accommodating the article 10 in the form of an inhaler. The holder 120 comprises a casing 122 defining a cavity in the casing made with the possibility of accommodating the article 10 in the form of an inhaler. The cavity 125 of the casing is made with the possibility of accommodating the end 1 of the article 10 in the form of an inhaler located upstream of the flow.

The holder 120 also comprises a piercing element 110 adapted to pass into the cavity 125 of the casing and to pierce the capsule 9 of the article 10 in the form of an inhaler. During use, the piercing element 110 is positioned so that it is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the article 10 in the form of an inhaler and the center of the central channel 55 of the end plug 5. When the consumer pushes the article 10 in the form of an inhaler further into the cavity 125 of the casing, the piercing element 110 can pass into the cavity 7 of the article 10 in the form of an inhaler, passing through the central channel 55 and the resealable element 54 of the end plug 5, as shown in Fig. 3. When the capsule 9 is activated (or punctured), the user can draw in through the mouth end or the downstream end 2 of the inhaler article 10, either when it is placed in the holder 100 or when the inhaler article 10 is removed from the holder 100 after the capsule has been activated, and the user closes the punctured central channel 55 so that air flows through the air inlet channels 51, 52.

The holder 120 also comprises a marking element 130. The marking element 130 is designed to mark or provide an indication on the outer wrapper 8 of the product 10 in the form of an inhaler that the product 10 in the form of an inhaler has been used up. The marking element 130 can be activated by activating the piercing element 110.

The holder 120 also comprises a sleeve 124 configured to hold the article 110 in the form of an inhaler in the cavity 125 of the casing. The sleeve 124 comprises a sleeve cavity and is configured to move inside the cavity 125 of the casing along the longitudinal axis of the casing 122 of the holder 100. The sleeve 124 comprises a first open end and a second opposite end. The first open end is configured to accommodate the end 1 of the article 10 in the form of an inhaler located upstream. The second opposite end of the sleeve 124 is configured to adjoin the end 1 of the article 10 in the form of an inhaler located upstream. The piercing element 110 is configured to pass through the second opposite end of the sleeve 124 in order to pass into the article 10 in the form of an inhaler and ultimately pierce the capsule 9.

The piercing element 110 is attached to the inner part of the casing 122 of the holder and is designed with the possibility of passing into the cavity 125 of the casing and the cavity of the sleeve along the longitudinal axis of the holder 120.

The holder 120 comprises a spring element 115, designed with the possibility of shifting the sleeve 124 and the article 10 in the form of an inhaler, located in the cavity of the sleeve, away from the piercing element 110 and towards the entrance to the cavity 125 of the casing. To activate the capsule, the consumer can move the article 10 in the form of an inhaler and, as a consequence, the sleeve 124 further into the cavity of the casing, so that the piercing element 110 is inserted deeper into the article 10 in the form of an inhaler and ultimately activates the capsule 9 of the article 10 in the form of an inhaler. After the capsule 9 has been activated or punctured accordingly, the consumer may stop advancing the inhaler article 10, and the spring element 115 will advance or bias the sleeve 124 and the inhaler article 10 away from the far end of the cavity 125 of the casing and toward the entrance to the cavity 125 of the casing. The consumer will be able to determine by sound or tactile feedback that the capsule 9 has been successfully punctured by the piercing element 110.

The filter segment 6 of the article 10 in the form of an inhaler comprises at least one channel 16 for the filter air flow, extending along the filter segment 6. Fig. 5 shows an embodiment of the filter segment 61, comprising a single Y-shaped channel 161 for the air flow. The Y-shaped channel 161 can be considered as consisting of three channels connected together along the central axis of the filter segment 61 by a central channel to form a single Y-shaped channel 161 for the air flow. The cross-sectional area of the channel 161 for the air flow is at least 25% of the total cross-sectional area of the filter segment 61. The filter segment 61 is made of acetyl cellulose tow or other suitable materials. The RTD per unit length of the filter segment 61 is approximately 0.02 mm of water per mm.

Fig. 6 shows an embodiment of a filter segment 62 comprising three air flow channels 162. As shown in Fig. 6, the air flow channels 162 are circular and arranged in a triangular formation. The total cross-sectional area of the air flow channels 162 is at least 10% of the total cross-sectional area of the filter segment 62. The filter segment 62 is made of acetyl cellulose tow or other suitable materials.

Fig. 7 shows an embodiment of a filter segment 63 comprising five air flow channels 163. As shown in Fig. 7, the air flow channels 163 are in the form of annular sectors and are uniformly distributed around the circumference near the outer periphery of the filter segment 63. The total cross-sectional area of the air flow channels 163 is at least 10% of the total cross-sectional area of the filter segment 63. The filter segment 63 is made of acetyl cellulose tow or other suitable materials. The RTD per unit length of the filter segment 63 is approximately 0.05 mm of water per mm.

Fig. 8 shows an embodiment of a filter segment 64 comprising seven air flow channels 164. The total cross-sectional area of the air flow channels 164 is at least 75% of the total cross-sectional area of the filter segment 64. The filter segment 64 is made of a bioplastic material. The RTD per unit length of the filter segment 64 is approximately 0.01 mm of water per mm.

Fig. 9 shows an embodiment of a filter segment 65 formed from a bundle of polylactic acid fibers extending in the longitudinal direction along the filter segment 65. Gaps (not shown) between the fibers effectively provide channels for air flow. The cross-sectional area of the filter segment 65 occupied by the fibers is at least approximately 95% of the total cross-sectional area of the filter segment 65. The RTD per unit length of the filter segment 65 is approximately 0.6 mm of water per mm.

Fig. 10 shows an embodiment of a filter segment 65 comprising a roll of corrugated sheet material based on paper. Gaps extending in the longitudinal direction within the twisted corrugated sheet material are formed along the entire length of the filter segment 65. The RTD per unit length of the filter segment 65 is approximately 0.25 mm of water per mm.

For the purposes of the present description and the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, amounts, percentages, etc., are to be understood as modified in all instances by the term "about". Also, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and include any intermediate ranges therebetween that may or may not be specifically listed herein. Therefore, in this context, the number A is understood as A + 10% of A. In this context, the number A may be considered to include numerical values that are within the normal standard error for measuring the property that the number A modifies. The number A, in some instances, when used in the appended claims, may vary by the percentages listed above, provided that the amount by which A varies does not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and include any intermediate ranges therebetween that may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims (20)

1. An article in the form of an inhaler having an end located upstream of the flow and an end located downstream of the flow, wherein the article in the form of an inhaler comprises: an upstream section containing an end plug; a downstream section located downstream of the upstream section and at a distance from the upstream section, wherein the downstream section comprises a filter segment, wherein the resistance to draw per unit length of the filter segment is greater than 0 millimeters of water per millimeter and less than 3 millimeters of water per millimeter, and wherein the filter segment is configured to withstand a force of up to 15 newtons applied to its upstream end without deformation; a cavity defined between the upstream section and the downstream section, wherein the cavity is configured to be in fluid communication with the outer portion of the inhaler article; and a capsule containing an inhalable material, the capsule being located in a cavity. 2. An inhaler product according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the draw resistance per unit length of the filter segment is greater than 0 millimeters of water per millimeter and less than 1 millimeter of water per millimeter. 3. An article in the form of an inhaler according to any of the preceding paragraphs, characterized in that the Young's modulus of the filter segment material is greater than 10 MPa. 4. An inhaler product according to any of the preceding paragraphs, characterized in that the resistance to drawing of the filter segment is greater than 0 millimeters of water and less than 10 millimeters of water. 5. An inhaler product according to any of the preceding paragraphs, characterized in that the length of the filter segment is from 10 to 20 millimeters. 6. An inhaler product according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filter segment extends from the cavity to the downstream end of the inhaler product. 7. An inhaler article according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a hollow tubular element extending from an upstream end of the inhaler article to the filter segment, wherein the end plug and the capsule are located within the hollow tubular element. 8. An article in the form of an inhaler according to claim 7, characterized in that the article in the form of an inhaler comprises a wrapping material surrounding the hollow tubular element and the downstream section, wherein the wrapping material secures the downstream section in axial alignment with the hollow tubular element. 9. An inhaler article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the end plug defines at least one air flow inlet channel extending from an upstream end of the end plug to the cavity for fluid communication between the cavity and the exterior of the inhaler article. 10. An article in the form of an inhaler according to claim 9, characterized in that said at least one inlet channel for an air flow comprises two inlet channels for an air flow, designed with the possibility of generating a swirling air flow inside the cavity. 11. An article in the form of an inhaler according to any of the preceding paragraphs, characterized in that the filter segment comprises at least one channel for the air flow of the filter, passing along the filter segment. 12. An inhaler product according to any of the preceding paragraphs, characterized in that the inhaled material contains nicotine. 13. An article in the form of an inhaler according to any of the preceding paragraphs, characterized in that the end plug contains a central channel passing through the main part of the end plug, wherein the central channel is designed with the possibility of providing access to the cavity for the piercing element. 14. An inhalation system comprising an article in the form of an inhaler according to any of the preceding paragraphs and a holder for placing the article in the form of an inhaler, wherein the holder comprises: a casing defining a casing cavity configured to receive an article in the form of an inhaler; and a piercing element designed to pass into the cavity of the casing and pierce the capsule of the product in the form of an inhaler.