WO2024146917A1

WO2024146917A1 - Drug pad

Info

Publication number: WO2024146917A1
Application number: PCT/EP2024/050139
Authority: WO
Inventors: Maria Inês AMARO; Avril FEENEY; Christopher John BARROTT; Ella Esther INWALD
Original assignee: GH Research Ireland Ltd
Current assignee: GH Research Ireland Ltd
Priority date: 2023-01-04
Filing date: 2024-01-04
Publication date: 2024-07-11
Anticipated expiration: 2025-07-04
Also published as: EP4646253A1; CO2025010666A2; CR20250322A; CN120456942A; IL321595A; MX2025007791A; AU2024205965A1; KR20250133387A; TW202434218A

Abstract

A drug pad is operable to retain a drug. The drug pad includes a plurality of sintered metal fibers forming a plurality of pores, and a drug retained on the plurality of sintered metal fibers. The plurality of pores define a porosity of the drug pad.

Description

DRUG PAD

FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a drug pad. In at least one example, the present disclosure relates to a drug pad that retains a drug.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Inhalation of an aerosol including a drug is a technique to deliver drugs to a user. The aerosol is inhaled into the lungs of a patient, which leads to absorption of the drug into the bloodstream and systemic distribution.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] Further features of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure relates from reading the following specification with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0004] FIG. 1 A is an isometric view of a drug cartridge with a drug pad, according to at least one instance of the present disclosure;

[0005] FIG. IB is an isometric view of a drug cartridge with a layered mesh pad, according to at least one instance of the present disclosure;

[0006] FIG. 1 C is an isometric view of a plurality of layers of a layered mesh pad, according to at least one instance of the present disclosure;

[0007] FIG. ID is an isometric view of a drug cartridge with a metal foam pad, according to at least one instance of the present disclosure;

[0008] FIG. 2A is an enlarged view of sintered metal fibers of a drug pad;

[0009] FIG. 2B is a diagram of sintered metal fibers of a drug pad forming a pore;

[0010] FIG. 3A is a drug pad with a drug retained on the sintered metal fibers;

[0011] FIG. 3B is an isometric view of the drug pad;

[0012] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of the drug cartridge with the shell in a closed configuration;

[0013] FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a plurality of drug cartridges that are packaged for storing and/or transport; and [0014] FIG. 6 is a vaporizer operable to heat the drug pad to transition the drug to a vaporized form.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where appropriate, reference numerals have been repeated among the different figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the related relevant feature being described. The drawings are not necessarily to scale and the proportions of certain parts may be exaggerated to better illustrate details and features. The description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of the embodiments described herein.

[0016] Several definitions that apply throughout this disclosure will now be presented.

[0017] The term “coupled” is defined as connected, whether directly or indirectly through intervening components, and is not necessarily limited to physical connections. The connection can be such that the objects are permanently connected or releasably connected. The term “substantially” is defined to be essentially conforming to the particular dimension, shape or other word that substantially modifies, such that the component need not be exact. For example, substantially cylindrical means that the object resembles a cylinder, but can have one or more deviations from a true cylinder. The term “comprising” means “including, but not necessarily limited to”; it specifically indicates open-ended inclusion or membership in a so-described combination, group, series and the like.

[0018] As used herein, when referring to any numerical value, the term “about” means a value falling within a range that is ± 10 percent of the stated value.

[0019] Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, a further aspect includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms a further aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint and independently of the other endpoint. It is also understood that there are a number of values disclosed herein, and that each value is also herein disclosed as “about” that particular value in addition to the value itself. For example, if the value “10” is disclosed, then “about 10” is also disclosed. It is also understood that each unit between two particular units are also disclosed. For example, if 10 and 15 are disclosed, then 11, 12, 13, and 14 are also disclosed.

[0020] The term “vapor,” “vaporization,” “vaporized,” or any other variation of such terms, is defined as a substance (e.g., the drug) diffused or suspended in air, or turning a substance (e.g., the drug) into a form that can be diffused or suspended in air.

[0021] A drip pad has conventionally been used for filtration applications. The drip pad can be tightly packed stainless steel wire in a non-uniform and non-mesh form. However, a pad of sintered metal fibers with the specific features and properties as disclosed herein has provided unexpected results in retaining a defined amount of drug to be packaged, transported, and/or stored before being heated to vaporize the drug for administration. Additionally as disclosed drug pads of metal foam and a layered mesh pad also provide increased and unexpected performance as compared to a drip pad. The drug pad as provided herein efficiently stores, vaporizes, and produces aerosol for medical administration of the drug.

[0022] The problem solved by the disclosed subject matter included finding a solution where the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), or the drug, is sufficiently bonded to the drug pad to survive transport and storage, and also the API releases from the drug pad reliably and quickly enough when heated during the dose preparation process. The disclosed drug pad provides improved manufacturing quality and better consistency of delivered dose uniformity and particle size distribution. For example, a drip pad is a compressed tightly packed wire, which shows high variability in density and porosity, leading to variable dose vaporisation. Also, with the drip pad, there is poor adhesion of the API to the drip pad. Accordingly, conventionally, a solution containing the API must be applied to the drip pad shortly before use, increasing the usability hurdle and treatment variability. The presently disclosed technology provides greater control of manufacturing consistency and operational reliability. The presently disclosed technology includes a layered mesh pad, a metal foam pad, and sintered metal pad. These are collectively referred to as a drug pad. In some of the illustrated examples, only a sintered metal fiber pad is shown, but others of the present technology can be implemented instead. [0023] The presently disclosed drug pad(s) provides predictability as compared to the known drip pads. The drip pads have a high degree of variability as compared to one or more of the disclosed drug pads. One or more of the drug pads described herein also have an increased reproducible structure as compared to the known drip pad. Additionally, one or more of the presently disclosed drug pads also provides easier production with high throughput of production as compared to the drip pad that requires complicated wire folding yielding less reproducible construction, more complicated production, and increased irregularities. The presently disclosed drug pad provides enhanced and surprising results based on the high porosity and low thickness requirements as compared to the known drip pad. For example, the thickness can be half or a third of the thickness of the drip pad. At the same time, the porosity of one or more of the disclosed drug pads has an increased porosity. Furthermore, one or more of the disclosed drug pads provides enhanced vaporization efficiency.

[0024] Regarding the drip pad, the tightly packed stainless steel wire mesh is not sintered. The drip pad has a worse vaporization efficiency in comparison to the disclosed drug pad. For example, the drip pad after drying the drug retains residual liquid spanning the mesh cells. Additionally, the drip pad may not distribute the solution with the drug sufficiently across the drip pad. Accordingly, the drug may be vaporized directly from a liquid phase, including residual ethanol. Also, by being vaporized directly from a liquid phase, the vaporization efficiency is lacking, as it would take longer than 15 seconds, and in some instances longer than 18 seconds, to fully vaporize the drug, leaving a tar-like substance after vaporization. The drip pad can prevent 100 percent vaporization from being achieved. For example, less than 90 percent of the drug may be vaporized after 15 seconds of vaporization. In comparison, with the disclosed drug pad, greater than 90 percent vaporization efficiency can be achieved in under 12 seconds, and in some instances, even less time. The longer vaporization time of the drip pad leads to a greater volume of aerosol for inhalation. For example, the amount of aerosol volume needed for about 100 percent vaporization of the drug for the drip pad is about 3.6 liters in comparison to about 2 liters or less for the disclosed drug pad. Also, the drip pad is not suitable for dump dosing, and is only suitable for drop wise application of the drug.

[0025] A commonly described route of administration for drugs (e.g., 5-Methyoxy-N,N- Dimethyltryptamine, tetrahydrocannabinol, etc.) in the recreational context is inhalation into the lungs of aerosol including the drug ultimately leading to the absorption of the drug into the bloodstream and systemic distribution. The aerosol is most commonly generated by exposing drugcontaining materials to high temperatures over a longer period of time, e.g., in glass pipes using a torch lighter.

[0026] Based on their pharmacological activities, there are potential medical uses of drugs. For example, uses in human clinical trials and uses in an approved medical product for treatment of patients require administration of the drug in high purity and accurate dosing.

[0027] The above described recreational vaporization of a drug into an aerosol would be unsuitable for any medical application. It does not allow for the administration of defined amounts of the drug. In many recreational instances, even the exact drug content of the material subjected to vaporization and its purity are unknown. Additionally, the proportion of the drug which is recreationally vaporized into an aerosol may be likewise unknown, and the properties of the aerosol are ill-defined.

[0028] Further, as indicated above, the conditions currently applied in the recreational context involve the exposure of the drug to undefined high temperatures over a longer period of time. The exposure to undefined high temperatures induces the formation of thermal degradation products, which are also inhaled. The thermal degradation products have unknown pharmacological effects, and the thermal degradation products are potentially noxious and may cause a harsh taste. A further disadvantage of the conditions currently applied in the recreational context to generate the aerosol with the drug is that inhalation of the aerosol with the drug can often lead to coughing, which prevents intake of the total drug target dosage in a single inhalation and limits the exposure duration of the lung tissues with the drug and therefore absorption of the drug.

[0029] Each of the issues described above independently and in combination contributes to inefficient and unpredictable systemic delivery of the drug, which is not acceptable in the context of potential use of the drug as a medication, as it can lead to suboptimal clinical efficacy and increased risk for side effects. For potential medical uses, e.g., for use in human clinical trials or for use in an approved medical product for treatment of patients, for drugs with rapid absorption, distribution, and metabolism, the present disclosure provides the complete or almost complete target dosage of the drug to the patient in a single inhalation (i.e., within one deep breath), because the onset of effects is so rapid that the patient will often not be able to accurately perform a second inhalation (i.e., take a second deep breath). The drug must be provided under well-controlled, standardized, and reproducible conditions. With the disclosed drug pad, a comparatively low temperature can be utilized and still vaporize a large dose of the drug efficiently, while avoiding the combustion products of higher temperature vaporization. By being able to efficiently vaporize the drug from the drug pad, the aerosol produced can have a smaller volume (e.g., less than 3 liters, in some examples about 2 liters or less, in yet other examples less than 1.5 liters, still other examples less than 1 liter, and yet other examples about .5 liter) for the patient to complete a complete dosage in a single inhalation. Conventional drip pads have lesser vaporization efficiency than the disclosed drug pad and require longer time and thus more air to vaporize the drug, leading to volumes that are difficult to inhale in one breath.

[0030] Additionally, in many circumstances, the drug may need to be pre-packaged for transportation and storage. By retaining the drug on the drug pad prior to packaging, transportation, and/or storage, the dosage of the drug and the correct administration of the drug via the drug pad is ensured. Furthermore, the drug pad can retain the drug without leakage to ensure that the correct dosage of the drug is provided. The drug pad can also deliver the desired thermal energy to the drug retained thereon so that the drug efficiently vaporizes. Further, the drug pad can have sufficient porosity to permit air to flow therethrough to promote and release the vaporized drug.

[0031] Alternative solutions can include a pad with layered mesh (“layered mesh pad”) and a metal foam substrate (“metal foam pad”). The drug pad disclosed herein provides an appropriate mix of porosity, absorption capacity (e.g., drug retention without leaking), and vaporization efficiency. Additionally, the drug pad disclosed herein can be easily manufactured.

[0032] The layered mesh pad can include five layers of stainless steel mesh. The drug retention of the layered mesh pad can be improved through the choice of the number and type of mesh layers. The layered mesh pad can be configured to provide for a desired vaporization efficiency. The layered mesh pad can require controlled manufacturing for layer orientation, position and compression, and careful dosing.

[0033] The metal foam pad can include a highly open, three-dimensional, stainless-steel structure with random and interconnected pores. The metal foam pad performs better in comparison to the layered mesh pad and the drip pad, in that the metal foam pad has sufficient drug retention capacity and has high vaporization efficiency. Based on the performance, the metal foam pad can be considered the closest alternative to the disclosed sintered metal fiber pad. However, the metal foam pad is challenging to manufacture using stainless steel. Recent advances in continuous processes for spray-coating of pure foam coils with organic binder solutions, high-alloyed powders and subsequent heat treatment can solve the current manufacturing difficulties too. The metal foam can be changed in thickness and/or volume capacity of the metal foam pad to make it as effective as compared to the disclosed sintered metal fiber pad.

[0034] Accordingly, the disclosed drug pad provides a desired mix of porosity, absorption capacity (e.g., drug retention without leaking), and vaporization efficiency, along with easier manufacturing. The heterogenous structure of the drug pad was assumed to result in increased flow resistance, but results show that is not the case. Moreover, the heterogenous structure was assumed to result in increased flow resistance when utilizing multiple layers of the drug pad stacked on one another. However, it has been found that multiple layers of the drug pad do not significantly affect flow resistance and vaporization efficiency. Accordingly, multiple layers of the drug pad can be utilized. For example, if there was a need to reduce the diameter of the drug pad, multiple layers of the drug pad could be utilized to improve drug retention while still maintaining high vaporization efficiency. Also, the sacrifice between drug retention and vaporization efficiency, as with the layered mesh pad, does not occur with the disclosed drug pad. Further, the vaporization efficiency of the disclosed drug pad significantly outperforms the drip pad in terms of time to complete vaporization, which leads to significantly less inhaled volume of aerosol. Additionally, the disclosed drug pad is easier to manufacture with consistent results.

[0035] While the disclosure focuses on some highlighted comparisons with the layered mesh pad, the drip pad, and the metal foam pad, additional advantages of the disclosed drug pad are also found.

[0036] In some examples, types of layered mesh pads, metal foam pads, and the sintered metal fiber pad could be combined in a multi-layered drug pad. The resulting multi-layered pad has high vaporization efficiency and high drug retention without leaking.

[0037] FIG. 1 A illustrates a drug cartridge 10 with a drug pad 100 being a sintered metal fiber pad 11 operable to retain a drug. In at least one example, the drug can include 5-Methyoxy-N, N- Dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT). In some examples, the drug can include at least one of: cannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol, entactogen 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, ketamine, lysergic acid diethylamide, psilocybin, N,N-dimethyltryptamine, phenylalkylamine mescaline, other tryptamines, other ergolines, other serotonergic compounds, second generation psychedelics,, nicotine, pentamidine, and/or opioids such as fentanyl, morphine, naloxone, etc., for example for drug replacement therapy. In further examples, the drug can include a drug that is suited toward administration by inhalation e.g. drugs for which it may be preferable to bypass first pass metabolism and do not break down at temperatures required to achieve vaporization. Other suitable drugs that can be retained on a drug pad and vaporized for aerosol delivery to a patient can be utilized without deviating from the scope of the disclosure. The drug can be a freebase or come in the form of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt that provides for desired characteristics depending on the drug and vaporizer capabilities. In at least one example, the drug can be one of the above described drugs. The pharmaceutically acceptable salts include methane sulfonate, malate, meso-tartrate, xinafoate, malonate, glycolate, benzoate, or phosphate. The vaporizer can be one such as the one described herein with the ability to achieve vaporization temperatures including but not limited to about 260 degrees Celsius.

[0038] FIG. IB is an isometric view of a drug cartridge with a layered mesh pad 20, according to at least one instance of the present disclosure. The drug cartridge 10 as illustrated in FIG. IB can be sized and shaped like the one of FIG. 1A. The difference is that a layered mesh pad 20 is implemented in place of drug pad 100. The layered mesh pad can be used with the same drugs as well.

[0039] FIG. 1 C is an isometric view of a plurality of layers of a layered mesh pad 20, according to at least one instance of the present disclosure. The layered mesh pad 20 is created from a plurality of meshes 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 that are stacked together to form the layered mesh pad 20. The plurality of meshes 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 can differ in size of the mesh. For example, the layered mesh 20 as illustrated in FIG. 1C can include at least five different meshes 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 with the first 22 and last mesh 26 having a fine mesh spacing and middle meshes 23, 24, 25 having a larger mesh spacing. For example, the first middle mesh 23 can have a spacing that is twice that of the first mesh 22. The second middle mesh can have a spacing one and a half times that of the first mesh 22. The third middle mesh can have a spacing that is three times that of the first mesh 22. Other mesh sizes of the middle meshes 23, 24, 25 can be implemented too. The meshes can also be all of the same size. In other examples, the first mesh 22 and the last mesh 26 can have a larger mesh spacing with the middle meshes 23, 24, 25 having smaller spacing. Additionally, a grid of each of the meshes 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 can be oriented at different angles relative to a reference orientation. For example, the first mesh 22 can be rotated an angle a from the reference orientation, which can be for example a line that bisects the grid in a horizontal configuration. The second mesh 23 can be rotated an angle 0 from the reference orientation that is different from angle a. The third mesh 24 can be rotated an angle <5 that is different from the other two angles a, 0. The fourth mesh 25 can be rotated an angle 0 that is different from the other three angles a, 0, <5. In constructing the layered mesh pad 20, the layers are configured to be closely pressed against each other to prevent gaps from forming therebetween.

[0040] FIG. ID is an isometric view of a drug cartridge with a metal foam pad 30, according to at least one instance of the present disclosure. The metal foam pad 30 is characterized by being a three-dimensional structure constructed from stainless steel or another suitably thermally conductive material. The metal foam pad 30 structure can be designed to have random and interconnected pores. Thus, the metal foam pad 30 can have a large surface area, low flow resistance, and a unique structure for dosing. The metal foam pad 30 can be produced using continuous spray coating of binders, alloys and subsequent heating. In at least one example, the metal foam pad 30 can have a porosity greater than ninety percent.

[0041] The drug pad 100 can have a diameter 100D between about 20 millimeters to about 40 millimeters. In some examples, the drug pad 100 can have a diameter 100D between about 21 millimeters to about 30 millimeters. In some examples, the drug pad 100 can have a diameter 100D between about 25 millimeters to about 30 millimeters. In some examples, the drug pad 100 can have a diameter 100D of about 26 millimeters. In some examples, the drug pad 100 can have a diameter 100D of at least about 21 millimeters to sufficiently retain and dispense the drug upon vaporization.

[0042] The present disclosure can be implemented with layered mesh or metal foam of FIGs. 1B- C and ID respectively, but the remainder of the disclosure is described in regards to FIG. 1 A for simplification. As illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the drug pad 100 of FIG. 1A can include a plurality of sintered metal fibers 102 to form a plurality of pores 104. The drug pad 100 can be created via a layer-by-layer sintering process, from a non-woven mesh consisting of fibers 102. During sintering, for example as illustrated in FIG. 2B, the fibers 102 form necks 200 as the fibers 102 are sintered together. The sintered metal fibers 102 then form pores 104 between the fibers 102 which are operable to permit air to pass therethrough. Also, the drug can be retained on the sintered metal fibers 102, for example in the pores 104.

[0043] In at least one example, the plurality of sintered metal fibers 102 are made of stainless steel so that the sintered metal fibers 102 are operable to be heated to a vaporization temperature to vaporize the drug to transition to a vaporized drug and maintain compatibility with the drug. For example, in maintaining compatibility with the drug, the sintered metal fibers 102 being stainless steel can prevent and/or reduce degradation, decay, change in chemical composition, reduction in strength, and/or bacterial growth. Accordingly, the drug pad 100 with the drug retained thereon can be packaged, transported, and/or stored for an extended period of time before administration of the drug.

[0044] An unexpected result of having a porosity of the drug pad 100 greater than about 65 percent includes sufficiently retaining the drug for storage while permitting efficient vaporization and air flow for administration of the drug. In some examples, the porosity can be between 80 percent and 95 percent to permit air to flowthrough the sintered metal fibers 102 so that the drug is transported from the sintered metal fibers 102 along with the air. In some examples, the porosity can be greater than about 75 percent. In some examples, the porosity can be greater than about 87 percent. In some examples, the porosity can be about 90 percent.

[0045] The diameter 102D of the sintered metal fibers 102 can aid in the retention of the drug and/or the forming of the pores for the desired porosity. The diameter 102D of the sintered metal fibers 102 of the drug pad 100 can have an effect on whether there are liquid patches after the drug is dried on the drug pad 100 (e.g., the diameter can contribute to the minimization of liquid patches after drying). Drying of the drug on the pad is discussed further below. For example, the diameter 102D of the sintered metal fibers 102 can define the pores 104 in tandem with the manufacturing process parameters for sintering the fibers 102. Liquid patches may lead to the drug being vaporized directly from a liquid potentially with residual solvent. Accordingly, with more liquid patches, the aerosol may not have as high a purity of the vaporized drug as desired. In at least one example, the sintered metal fibers 102 can have a diameter 102D between about 35 micrometers and about 55 micrometers. In some examples, the sintered metal fibers 102 can have a diameter 102D between about 40 micrometers and about 50 micrometers. In some examples, each of the sintered metal fibers 102 can have a diameter 102D less than about 50 micrometers. In some examples, the sintered metal fibers 102 can have a diameter 102D between about 39 micrometers to about 41 micrometers.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 3 A, the drug 300 can be metered on the drug pad 100. In at least one example, the drug 300 deposited on the drug pad 100 can initially be in a liquid form. For example, the drug 300 can include the drug in a solution and/or suspension. In at least one example, a solvent, which can be either a non-aqueous solvent or an aqueous solvent depending upon the type of salt selected and required wetting factors, can be used with the salt form of the drug to create a liquid form. For example, the non-aqueous solvents can include acetone, butanone, ethyl acetate, 2-pr opanol, methanol, acetonitrile, isopropyl alcohol, and/or isopropyl acetate. Additionally, the selection of the solvent can depend on whether the drug pad 100, a layered mesh pad, and/or metal foam pad is selected. In at least one example, a combination of pads can be selected as well. For example, the drug pad 100 can be combined with the metal foam pad.

[0047] In at least one example, the drug 300 can be metered on the drug pad 100 by drop wise application. For example, the drop wise application can be done in a circular or randomly across the drug pad 100. In some examples, the drug 300 can be metered by drop wise application with pipetting. The drop wise application can also be described as a dump dosing in which pipetting is used as well. For example 50-250 microliters can be dispensed in a period of 2-15 seconds. In other examples automatic dosing can be at speeds as high as 300 microliters per second with a volume dosing of 200 microliters and not achieve a leak.

[0048] In some examples, the drug 300 can be metered on the drug pad 100 by dumping. For example, the entire volume of the drug 300 can be deposited substantially centrally onto the drug pad 100 over a period of less than about 12 seconds. In some examples, the drug 300 can be deposited over a period of less than about 10 seconds. In some examples, the drug 300 can be deposited over a period of less than about 8 seconds, In some examples, the drug 300 can be deposited over a period of less than about 5 seconds, In some examples, the drug 300 can be deposited over a period of less than about 4 seconds. In some examples, the drug 300 can be deposited over a period of about 1 second. In some examples, the drug 300 can be deposited over a period of less than about 1 second. In contrast, a conventional layered mesh pad may require at least 15 seconds to deposit the drug 300.

[0049] In at least one example, the sintered metal fibers 102 of the drug pad 100 are operable to retain about 50 microliters to about 350 microliters of the drug. In at least one example, the plurality of sintered metal fibers 102 of the drug pad 100 is operable to retain up to 250 microliters of solution of the drug 300.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 3 A, the drug 300 spreads through the drug pad 100 and the plurality of sintered metal fibers 102, but the boundary 302 of the drug 300 does not wick to the perimeter 110 of the drug pad 100. Accordingly, the drug pad 100 effectively receives, spreads, and retains the drug 300 within a desired portion of the drug pad 100. If the drug 300 wicked to the perimeter 110 of the drug pad 100, some of the drug 300 may leak out and/or through the drug pad 100. The drug 300 that leaks out of the perimeter 110 of the drug pad 100 and/or the drug 300 that is retained at the edges of the perimeter 110 of the drug pad 100 may not receive sufficient air flow to promote and release the drug 300 from the drug pad 100. For example, a shell 400 for a drug cartridge 10 (for example as illustrated in FIG. 4) may not form apertures 406 that correspond with the perimeter 110 of the drug pad 100, and air flow may not adequately flow across the perimeter 110 of the drug pad 100 to promote and release the drug 300 from the drug pad 100. Accordingly, an incorrect dosage of the drug 300 may be administered to the patient, so it is important that the drug 300 is retained in the drug pad 100 within the desired portion of the drug pad 100.

[0051] As illustrated in FIG. 3B, the drug pad 100 has a thickness 100T that allows for sufficient retention of the entire dosage of the drug while permitting efficient thermal transfer through the drug pad 100. In at least one example, the drug pad 100 has a thickness 100T between about 0.9 millimeters and about 1.5 millimeters. In some examples, the drug pad 100 can have a thickness 100T between about 0.6 millimeters to about 1.5 millimeters. In some examples, the drug pad 100 can have a thickness 100T between about 1.1 millimeters to about 1.45 millimeters. In some examples, the drug pad 100 can have a thickness 100T of about 1.3 millimeters. In some examples, the drug pad 100 can have a thickness 100T greater than 1.2 millimeters. The drug pad 100 as disclosed herein unexpectedly has a very small thickness while being able to sufficiently retain the entire dosage of the drug 300 without leakage (for example, no accidental admission or escape of the drug from the drug pad 100). A thicker pad with a lower porosity can produce the desired retention. Accordingly, with the drug pad 100, the desired dosage of the drug is administered.

[0052] Additionally, the diameter 100D as described above in relation to FIG. 1A can be reduced and additional layers of the drug pad 100 can be implemented. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the additional layers can be the drug pad 100, a layered mesh pad, and/or metal foam pad.

[0053] Additionally, the drug pad 100 can be characterized by an area density which is the mass per unit area. For example, the mass per unit area can be defined based on the area 101 of the drug pad 100 as illustrated in FIG. 3B. In at least one example, the drug pad can have an area density of 700 grams per meter squared to 1500 grams per meter squared. In other examples the range can be 900 grams per meter squared to 1425 grams per meter squared.

[0054] The drug pad 100 can have a variety of thicknesses, diameters, porosity, mass per unit area, and/or vaporization efficiency to provide the desired dosing of the drug pad 100 as described herein and providing the target aerosol volume. For example, a lower thickness with a lower area density can result in a higher porosity, but have a more difficult time in retaining the correct amount of volume of the drug during dosing. Additionally, the higher thickness with a high area density provides for enhanced drug retention during dosing but results in a lower porosity and vaporization efficiency. The ranges provide unexpected results given the thicknesses and porosity described herein. In at least one example the ranges can include a thickness 100T between about 0.9 millimeters and about 1.5 millimeters. Additionally, an area density can be between about 900 grams per meter squared and about 1500 grams per meter squared. In another example, the area density can be between about 930 grams per meter squared and about 1425 grams per meter squared. In another example, the area density can be about 1000 grams per meter squared. The fiber diameter can be about 40 micrometers. The diameter 100D of the drug pad 100 can be about 26 millimeters. The porosity can be above about 87 percent. These parameters result in a vaporization efficiency greater than about 97 percent at a temperature of 235 degrees Celsius using the freebase form of mebufotenin.

[0055] In at least one example, the sintered metal fibers 102 of the drug pad 100 are operable to retain 50 microliters to 250 microliters of the drug without the drug passing out of the drug pad 100. In at least one example, the plurality of sintered metal fibers 102 of the drug pad 100 is operable to retain up to 250 microliters of solution of the drug 300 without leaking. In at least one example, the drug pad 100 is operable to retain 200 microliters of solution of the drug 300 without leaking.

[0056] In at least one example, the drug pad 100 can have a weight between about 700 grams per meter squared and about 1400 grams per meter squared. Accordingly, the drug pad 100 is thin and light for efficient drug loading and efficient vaporization.

[0057] After the drug 300 is metered (for example, depositing a predetermined volume) on the drug pad 100, the drug 300 can be fixed to the drug pad 100. For example, the drug 300 can be dried so that the drug in a dry form is retained on the drug pad 100. When drying, the drug pad 100 and the drug 300 can be exposed to thermal energy. In at least one example, the sintered metal fibers 102 are heated and transport thermal energy to the drug 300. In some examples, heated air is passed through the pores 104 of the sintered metal fibers 102 to provide thermal energy to the drug 300. In some examples, both the sintered metal fibers 102 and the air provide the thermal energy to the drug 300. When drying, any solvent (for example, a non-aqueous solvent described above) in the solution and/or suspension can be removed or evaporated. Liquid patches are minimized, and the remaining drug on the drug pad 100 may be solidified and, in some examples, the drug may form crystals. Accordingly, the drug being administered to the patient has a higher percentage of purity.

[0058] In at least one example, the drying can be performed at temperatures between 50-100 degrees Celsius. In least one example, the drying can be performed at temperatures between SO- 95 degrees Celsius. In at least one example, the drying can be performed at temperatures between 50-60 degrees Celsius. The duration can be between 90-120 seconds. In at least one example the drying can be 55 degrees Celsius for 102 seconds. Additionally, the selection of the drying temperature can be based upon the salt, solvent, and melting point of the drug. In at least one example, the drying temperature is selected to be at least 15 degrees Celsius below the melting temperature of the drug. In some examples, the solvents can include non-aqueous solvents such as acetone, butanone, ethyl acetate, 2-pr opanol, methanol, acetonitrile, isopropyl alcohol, and/or isopropyl acetate. As described above, the pharmaceutically acceptable salts can include methane sulfonate, malate, meso-tartrate, xinafoate, malonate, glycolate, benzoate, or phosphate. In one example, the drug is a xinafoate salt of 5-MeO-DMT and a solvent can be isopropyl alcohol or ethanol. The xinafoate salt of 5-MeO-DMT (mebufotenin xinafoate) has a melting temperature of about 75 degrees Celsius and potential drying temperature of around 60 degrees Celsius and can be vaporized at 235 degrees Celsius. Additionally, a freebase form of mebufotenin can be used. In one example, the melting temperature for mebufotenin freebase can be about 67.5 degrees Celsius. An example solvent can be ethanol and a drying temperature can be about 55 degrees Celsius. The mebufotenin freebase can be vaporized between at about 235 degrees Celsius.

[0059] When mebufotenin malonate (with a melting temperature of around 100 degrees Celsius) is dissolved in the solvent isopropyl alcohol, a drying temperature can be selected as 85 degrees Celsius. When mebufotenin phosphate (with a melting temperature of around 110 degrees Celsius) is dissolved in the solvent isopropyl acetate a drying temperature can be selected as 95 degrees Celsius.

[0060] As presented herein, the solvents are non-aqueous, but the solvents could be aqueous. The non-aqueous solvents are selected to improve wettability of the drug pad. If an aqueous solvent is desired, the present disclosure implements a surface treatment for the drug pad. An example of the surface treatment can include an oxygen plasma treatment. Alternatively, a surfactant may be added to the solution to improve wettability. Implementing aqueous solvents also allows for a broader range of salts to be used.

[0061] In some examples, immediately following solvent removal, the drug 300 can be observed as an oily residue on the drug pad 100. The drug 300 can be highly soluble in absolute alcohol and the rapid removal of the solvent creates a highly supersaturated solution of the drug 300. The level of residual solvent, although not sufficient to maintain complete dissolution of the drug 300, is sufficient to maintain a high degree of supersaturation for a short period of time. The induction period can be about 10 seconds, from which point the first evidence of crystals on the drug pad 100 is observed. After observation of the initial crystal formation, the oily residue quickly solidifies, and the drug pad 100 is coated with the drug 300 in the solid state. In some examples, during vaporization, the solidified drug 300 may undergo a transition to an intermediate, oil-like or supersaturated liquid state prior to its subsequent transition to the vapor phase. In some examples, during vaporization, the solidified drug 300 melts and transitions to the vapor phase.

[0062] With the drug pad 100 as disclosed herein, these phase change transitions can occur more rapidly than other pads (e.g., the layered mesh pad and the drip pad).

[0063] Additionally, the as the drug is dispensed, the fiber diameter and capillary forces results in sufficient wetting of the drug pad 100. The drug 300 is then entrapped in the structure formed by the sintered metal fibers 102. As the drug dries on the drug pad 100, the coating of the sintered metal fibers 102 with solidified drug 300 results in adequately robust adhesion to withstand shock and vibration during transport. Additionally, the drug 300 is protected by the structure of the sintered metal fibers 102 of the drug pad 100.

[0064] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the drug pad 100 with the drug retained thereon can be received in a drug cartridge 10. The drug cartridge 10 can include a shell 400 that is operable to contain the drug pad 100. In at least one example, the shell 400 can include a top portion 402 and a bottom portion 404 that are operable to be coupled with one another to securely receive the drug pad 100. Both the top portion 402 and the bottom portion 404 can form a plurality of apertures 406 to permit air flow through the shell 400. Accordingly, air can flow through the bottom portion 404, through the drug pad 100, and out of the top portion 402. It will be appreciated that while four apertures 406 are depicted in the drug cartridge 10 of FIG 4, other cartridge configurations with other numbers of apertures are possible. [0065] In at least one example, the shell 400 can have a mass of less than 5 grams. Accordingly, the shell 400 and the drug pad 100 can be stored and transported with ease.

[0066] In at least one example, the shell 400 can be made of a material that transports thermal energy. For example, the shell 400 can be made of metal. Accordingly, the shell 400 can be heated, and the thermal energy can be conductively transferred to the sintered metal fibers 102 of the drug pad 100. The thermal energy can then be conductively transferred from the sintered metal fibers 102 to the drug.

[0067] Additionally, the selection of discs or other shapes of the drug pad 100 for installation within the drug cartridge 10, the quality of the drug pad 100 can be inspected. The drug pad 100 can be inspected to determine if there are any compressions located within the area of the drug pad 100. Additionally, the drug pad 100 can be inspected to determine if the drug pad 100 includes any creases. If there are creases or compressions, then the drug pad 100 can be rejected as it can impact the dosing of the drug pad 100. Furthermore, the drug pad 100 can be inspected to determine if edges have straight cuts. Additionally, the drug pad 100 can inspected to determine if there are no slag, lose fibers or discoloration.

[0068] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the drug cartridge 10 can be stored in packaging 500. The drug cartridge 10 can contain the drug pad 100 as described herein. Alternatively, the drug cartridge 10 can house layered mesh pad, a metal foam pad, and/or the drug pad. For simplicity of description as needed, the term drug pad 100 is used. For example, the packaging 500 can include a sealed plastic casing. The packaging 500 can enable the drug cartridge 10 and the drug pad 100 to be transported and/or stored for an extended period of time before the drug cartridge 10 is used for administration of the drug (e.g., being heated to release the drug). The packaging 500 can prevent air from passing through the shell 400 and drug pad 100 to ensure that the entire dosage of the drug remains on the drug pad 100. In at least one example, the packaging 500 can prevent bacteria and/or other particles from reaching the drug pad 100. In some examples, the packaging 500 can be a barrier to moisture.

[0069] As the drug cartridge 10 with the drug pad 100 has been pre-metered with the drug, the desired dosage of the drug can be administered to the patient when needed. However, in some examples, the drug can be provided separate from the drug pad 100 in a drug kit, and the drug can be deposited on to the drug pad 100 shortly before administration of the drug. [0070] When administering the drug, the drug on the sintered metal fibers 102 of the drug pad 100 can be exposed to thermal energy to transition the drug to a vapor phase as a vaporized drug. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the drug pad 100 with the drug cartridge 10 can be utilized with a vaporizer 600. The vaporizer 600 can be operable to heat the drug pad 100 to a vaporization temperature to transition the drug to the vapor phase as a vaporized drug. The vaporized drug is contained in a dosing chamber 650, which as illustrated is a bag that is inflated by the vapor and air. In other examples, the dosing chamber 650 can be other containers that allow for capture of the vapor. In heating the drug pad 100, the plurality of sintered metal fibers 102 can be heated and/or heated air can be passed through the plurality of sintered metal fibers 102. The efficiency of thermal transfer through the sintered metal fibers 102 results in unexpectedly enhanced vaporization efficiency and reduced time to administer the dosage of the drug as an aerosol. Additionally, the configuration of the drug pad 100 with the sintered metal fibers 102 and the desired porosity further provides enhanced vaporization efficiency. In at least one example, at least 90 percent of the drug retained on the plurality of sintered metal fibers 102 is transitioned to a vapor phase upon heating the plurality of sintered metal fibers 102 and/or having heated air pass through the plurality of sintered metal fibers 102. In some examples, at least 97 percent of the drug retained on the plurality of sintered metal fibers 102 is transitioned to a vapor phase upon heating the plurality of sintered metal fibers 102 and/or having heated air pass through the plurality of sintered metal fibers 102.

[0071] In at least one example, the drug cartridge 10 can be retained in a drug cartridge housing during storage, transport and use. When in use, the drug cartridge housing retaining the drug cartridge can be utilized with the vaporizer without the need for removal of the drug cartridge. Retaining the drug cartridge in the housing can for example make the cartridge easier to handle and/or for example render it more tamper resistant.

[0072] In at least one example, as the sintered metal fibers 102 are heated or independent from heating the sintered metal fibers 102, the vaporizer 600 can be operable to pass air through the plurality of pores 104 of the drug pad 100 to promote and release the vaporized drug from the drug pad 100 at the vaporization temperature. In at least one example, the vaporization temperature can be between 200 degrees Celsius to about 260 degrees Celsius. In some examples, the vaporization temperature can be about 235 degrees Celsius. With the porosity of the drug pad 100, aerosol with the desired dosage of vaporized drug can be produced with lower air flow rates from the vaporizer 600. Accordingly, the drug can be vaporized and administered as an aerosol efficiently and effectively.

[0073] As described above a range of pharmaceutically acceptable salts of the drug may be chosen to provide for the desired vaporization and drying characteristics. In one example, mebufotenin xinafoate allows for vaporization of the mebufotenin at temperatures ranging from 230 to 260 degrees Celsius. In another example, mebufotenin malonate provides for a similar range of vaporization temperatures. In yet another example, mebufotenin phosphate is compatible with a 260 degrees Celsius vaporization temperature. In at least some examples, the vaporization temperature can depend on the salt and solvent used. Additionally, as described above the temperature and drying time can likewise depend on the salt and solvent.

[0074] Numerous examples are provided herein to enhance understanding of the present disclosure. A specific set of statements are provided as follows.

[0075] Statement 1: A drug pad operable to retain a drug is disclosed, the drug pad comprising: a plurality of sintered metal fibers forming a plurality of pores; the plurality of pores defining a porosity of the drug pad; a drug retained on the plurality of sintered metal fibers.

[0076] Statement 2: A drug pad is disclosed according to Statement 1, wherein the porosity is about 90 percent to permit air to flow through the plurality of sintered metal fibers so that the drug is transported from the plurality of sintered metal fibers along with the air.

[0077] Statement 3: A drug pad is disclosed according to Statements 1 or 2, wherein each of the plurality of sintered metal fibers has a diameter between about 35 micrometers and about 55 micrometers.

[0078] Statement 4: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 1-3, wherein each of the plurality of sintered metal fibers has a diameter less than about 50 micrometers.

[0079] Statement 5: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 1-4, wherein at least about 90 percent of the drug retained on the plurality of sintered metal fibers is transitioned to a vapor phase upon heating the plurality of sintered metal fibers and/or having heated air passed through the plurality of sintered metal fibers.

[0080] Statement 6: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 1-5, wherein at least about 97 percent of the drug retained on the plurality of sintered metal fibers is transitioned to a vapor phase upon heating the plurality of sintered metal fibers and/or having heated air pass through the plurality of sintered metal fibers. [0081] Statement 7: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 1-6, wherein the plurality of sintered metal fibers is operable to retain about 50 microliters to about 350 microliters of the drug without the drug passing out of the drug pad.

[0082] Statement 8: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 1-7, wherein the plurality of sintered metal fibers is operable to retain up to about 250 microliters of solution of the drug without leaking.

[0083] Statement 9: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 1-8, wherein the plurality of sintered metal fibers is made of stainless steel so that the plurality of sintered metal fibers is operable to be heated to a vaporization temperature to vaporize the drug to transition to a vapor phase and maintain compatibility with the drug.

[0084] Statement 10: A drug pad is disclosed according to Statement 9, wherein the vaporization temperature is between about 200 degrees Celsius to about 260 degrees Celsius.

[0085] Statement 11: A drug pad is disclosed according to Statements 9 or 10, wherein the vaporization temperature is about 235 degrees Celsius.

[0086] Statement 12: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 9-11, wherein the drug pad is operable to be packaged and stored prior to being heated to release the drug.

[0087] Statement 13: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 1-12, wherein the drug pad has a diameter between about 20 millimeters to about 40 millimeters.

[0088] Statement 14: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 1-13, wherein the drug pad has a diameter between about 25 millimeters to about 30 millimeters.

[0089] Statement 15: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 1-14, wherein the drug pad has a thickness between about 0.6 millimeters and about 1.5 millimeters.

[0090] Statement 16: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 1-15, wherein the drug pad has a weight between about 700 grams per meter squared and about 1400 grams per meter squared.

[0091] Statement 17: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 1-16, wherein the drug includes at least one of: 5-Methoxy-N, N-Dimethyltryptamine, cannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol, entactogen 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, ketamine, lysergic acid diethylamide, psilocybin, N,N-dimethyltryptamine, phenylalkylamine mescaline, second generation psychedelics, tryptamines, ergolines, nicotine, pentamidine, opioids, fentanyl, morphine, naloxone, and/or serotonergic compounds.

[0092] Statement 18: A drug cartridge operable to retain and deliver a drug is disclosed, the drug cartridge comprising: a drug pad including a plurality of sintered metal fibers forming a plurality of pores; the plurality of pores defining a porosity of the drug pad; a drug retained on the plurality of sintered metal fibers; and a shell operable to contain the drug pad.

[0093] Statement 19: A method of preparing a drug pad for packaging and storage prior to releasing a drug retained on the drug pad is disclosed, the method comprising: obtaining a drug; obtaining a drug pad having a plurality of sintered metal fibers forming a plurality of pores, wherein the plurality of pores define a porosity of the drug pad; metering the drug on the drug pad; and retaining the drug on the drug pad.

[0094] Statement 20: A method is disclosed according to Statement 19, wherein the retaining the drug on the drug pad includes removing solvent in the drug.

[0095] Statement 21: A method of releasing a drug from a drug pad is disclosed, the method comprising: obtaining a drug pad having a drug stored thereon, the drug pad having a plurality of sintered metal fibers forming a plurality of pores, wherein the plurality of pores define a porosity of the drug pad; heating the drug pad to a vaporization temperature to transition the drug to a vapor phase as a vaporized drug; passing air through the plurality of pores of the drug pad to promote and release the vaporized drug from the drug pad at the vaporization temperature.

[0096] Statement 22: A drug kit is disclosed comprising: a drug; a drug pad operable to retain the drug, the drug pad including: a plurality of sintered metal fibers forming a plurality of pores; the plurality of pores defining a porosity of the drug pad, wherein the drug pad is operable to retain the drug in a solidified form on the plurality of sintered metal fibers and is operable to be heated to release the drug in a vaporized form.

[0097] Statement 23: A drug kit is disclosed according to Statement 22, further comprising a vaporizer operable to heat the drug pad to a vaporization temperature to transition the drug to a vapor phase as a vaporized drug.

[0098] Statement 24: A drug kit is disclosed according to Statement 23, wherein the vaporizer is operable to pass air through the plurality of pores of the drug pad to promote and release the vaporized drug from the drug pad at the vaporization temperature. [0099] Statement 25: A drug pad operable to retain a drug is disclosed, the drug pad comprising: a plurality of sintered metal fibers forming a plurality of pores; the plurality of pores defining a porosity of the drug pad, wherein the drug pad is operable to retain the drug on the plurality of sintered metal fibers and is operable to be heated to release the drug in a vaporized form.

[0100] Statement 26: The drug pad according to Statements 1-25, wherein a thickness of the drug pad is between about 0.9 millimeters and about 1.5 millimeters.

[0101] Statement 27: The drug pad according to Statements 1-26, wherein an area density of the drug pad is between about 900 grams per meter squared and about 1500 grams per meter squared. [0102] Statement 28: The drug pad according to Statements 1-27, wherein an area density of the drug pad is between about 930 grams per meter squared and about 1425 grams per meter squared. [0103] Statement 29: The drug pad according to Statements 1-28, wherein an area density of the drug pad is about 1000 grams per meter squared.

[0104] Statement 30: The drug pad according to Statements 1 -29, wherein a fiber diameter is about 40 micrometers.

[0105] Statement 31 : The drug pad according to Statements 1-30, wherein a diameter of the drug pad is about 26 millimeters.

[0106] Statement 32: The drug pad according to Statements 1-31, wherein the porosity of the drug pad is greater than 87 percent.

[0107] Statement 33: A drug pad operable to retain a drug is disclosed, the drug pad comprising: a plurality of sintered fibers forming a plurality of pores; the plurality of pores defining a porosity of the drug pad, wherein the porosity is greater than about 87 percent; a drug retained on the plurality of sintered fibers.

[0108] Statement 34: A drug pad is disclosed according to Statement 33, wherein the porosity is about 89 percent to permit air to flow through the plurality of sintered fibers so that the drug is transported from the plurality of sintered fibers along with the air.

[0109] Statement 35: A drug pad is disclosed according to Statements 33 or 34, wherein each of the plurality of sintered fibers has a diameter between about 35 micrometers and about 55 micrometers.

[0110] Statement 36: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 33-35, wherein each of the plurality of sintered fibers has a diameter less than about 50 micrometers. [0111] Statement 37: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 33-36, wherein at least about 90 percent of the drug retained on the plurality of sintered fibers is transitioned to a vapor phase upon heating the plurality of fibers and/or having heated air passed through the plurality of sintered fibers.

[0112] Statement 38: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 33-37, wherein at least about 97 percent of the drug retained on the plurality of sintered fibers is transitioned to a vapor phase upon heating the plurality of fibers and/or having heated air pass through the plurality of sintered fibers.

[0113] Statement 39: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 33-38, wherein the plurality of sintered fibers is operable to retain about 50 microliters to about 350 microliters of the drug without the drug passing out of the drug pad.

[0114] Statement 40: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 33-39, wherein the plurality of sintered fibers is operable to retain up to about 250 microliters of solution of the drug without leaking.

[0115] Statement 41: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 33-40, wherein the plurality of sintered fibers are made of stainless steel so that the plurality of sintered fibers are operable to be heated to a vaporization temperature to vaporize the drug to transition to a vapor phase and maintain compatibility with the drug.

[0116] Statement 42: A drug pad is disclosed according to Statement 41, wherein the vaporization temperature is between about 200 degrees Celsius to about 260 degrees Celsius.

[0117] Statement 43: A drug pad is disclosed according to Statements 41 or 42, wherein the vaporization temperature is about 235 degrees Celsius.

[0118] Statement 44: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 41-43, wherein the drug pad is operable to be packaged and stored prior to being heated to release the drug.

[0119] Statement 45: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 33-44, wherein the drug pad has a diameter between about 20 millimeters to about 40 millimeters.

[0120] Statement 46: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 33-45, wherein the drug pad has a diameter between about 25 millimeters to about 30 millimeters.

[0121] Statement 47: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 33-46, wherein the drug pad has a thickness between about 1.1 millimeters and about 1.5 millimeters. 1 [0122] Statement 48: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 33-47, wherein the drug pad has a weight between about 970 grams per meter squared and about 1400 grams per meter squared.

[0123] Statement 49: A drug pad is disclosed according to any of preceding Statements 33-48, wherein the drug includes at least one of: 5-Methoxy-N, N-Dimethyltryptamine, cannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol, entactogen 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, ketamine, lysergic acid diethylamide, psilocybin, N,N-dimethyltryptamine, phenylalkylamine mescaline, second generation psychedelics, tryptamines, ergolines, nicotine, pentamidine, opioids, fentanyl, morphine, naloxone, and/or serotonergic compounds.

[0124] Statement 50: A drug cartridge operable to retain and deliver a drug is disclosed, the drug cartridge comprising: a drug pad including a plurality of sintered fibers forming a plurality of pores; the plurality of pores defining a porosity of the drug pad, wherein the porosity is greater than about 87 percent; a drug retained on the plurality of sintered fibers; and a shell operable to contain the drug pad.

[0125] Statement 51 : A method of preparing a drug pad for packaging and storage prior to releasing a drug retained on the drug pad is disclosed, the method comprising: obtaining a drug; obtaining a drug pad having a plurality of sintered fibers forming a plurality of pores, wherein the plurality of pores define a porosity of the drug pad and the porosity is greater than about 87 percent; metering the drug on the drug pad; and retaining the drug on the drug pad.

[0126] Statement 52: A method is disclosed according to Statement 51, wherein the retaining the drug on the drug pad includes removing solvent in the drug.

[0127] Statement 53: A method of releasing a drug from a drug pad is disclosed, the method comprising: obtaining a drug pad having a drug stored thereon, the drug pad having a plurality of sintered fibers forming a plurality of pores, wherein the plurality of pores define a porosity of the drug pad and the porosity is greater than about 87 percent; heating the drug pad to a vaporization temperature to transition the drug to a vapor phase as a vaporized drug; passing air through the plurality of pores of the drug pad to promote and release the vaporized drug from the drug pad at the vaporization temperature.

[0128] Statement 54: A drug kit is disclosed comprising: a drug; a drug pad operable to retain the drug, the drug pad including: a plurality of sintered fibers forming a plurality of pores; the plurality of pores defining a porosity of the drug pad, wherein the porosity is greater than about 87 percent, wherein the drug pad is operable to retain the drug in a solidified form on the plurality of sintered fibers and is operable to be heated to release the drug in a vaporized form.

[0129] Statement 55: A drug kit is disclosed according to Statement 54, further comprising a vaporizer operable to heat the drug pad to a vaporization temperature to transition the drug to a vapor phase as a vaporized drug.

[0130] Statement 56: A drug kit is disclosed according to Statement 55, wherein the vaporizer is operable to pass air through the plurality of pores of the drug pad to promote and release the vaporized drug from the drug pad at the vaporization temperature.

[0131] Statement 57: A drug pad operable to retain a drug is disclosed, the drug pad comprising: a plurality of sintered fibers forming a plurality of pores; the plurality of pores defining a porosity of the drug pad, wherein the porosity is greater than about 87 percent, wherein the drug pad is operable to retain the drug on the plurality of sintered fibers and is operable to be heated to release the drug in a vaporized form.

[0132]

[0133] Although a variety of information was used to explain aspects within the scope of the appended claims, no limitation of the claims should be implied based on particular features or arrangements, as one of ordinary skill would be able to derive a wide variety of implementations. Further and although some subject matter may have been described in language specific to structural features and/or method steps, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to these described features or acts. Such functionality can be distributed differently or performed in components other than those identified herein. Rather, the described features and steps are disclosed as possible components of systems and methods within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A drug pad operable to retain a drug, the drug pad comprising: a plurality of sintered metal fibers forming a plurality of pores; the plurality of pores defining a porosity of the drug pad; a drug retained on the plurality of sintered metal fibers.

2. The drug pad of claim 1, wherein the porosity is about 90 percent to permit air to flow through the plurality of sintered metal fibers so that the drug is transported from the plurality of sintered metal fibers along with the air.

3. The drug pad of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of sintered metal fibers has a diameter between about 35 micrometers and about 55 micrometers.

4. The drug pad of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of sintered metal fibers has a diameter less than about 50 micrometers.

5. The drug pad of claim 1, wherein at least about 90 percent of the drug retained on the plurality of sintered metal fibers is transitioned to a vapor phase upon heating the plurality of sintered metal fibers and/or having heated air pass through the plurality of sintered metal fibers.

6. The drug pad of claim 1 , wherein at least about 97 percent of the drug retained on the plurality of sintered metal fibers is transitioned to a vapor phase upon heating the plurality of sintered metal fibers and/or having heating air pass through the plurality of sintered metal fibers.

7. The drug pad of claim 1, wherein the plurality of sintered metal fibers is operable to retain about 50 microliters to about 350 microliters of the drug without the drug passing out of the drug pad.

8. The drug pad of claim 1, wherein the plurality of sintered metal fibers is operable to retain up to about 250 microliters of solution of the drug without leaking.

9. The drug pad of claim 1, wherein the plurality of sintered metal fibers are made of stainless steel so that the plurality of sintered metal fibers are operable to be heated to a vaporization temperature to vaporize the drug to transition to a vapor phase and maintain compatibility with the drug.

10. The drug pad of claim 9, wherein the vaporization temperature is between about 200 degrees Celsius to about 260 degrees Celsius.

11. The drug pad of claim 9, wherein the vaporization temperature is about 235 degrees Celsius.

12. The drug pad of claim 9, wherein the drug pad is operable to be packaged and stored prior to being heated to release the drug.

13. The drug pad of claim 1, wherein the drug pad has a diameter between about 20 millimeters to about 40 millimeters.

14. The drug pad of claim 1, wherein the drug pad has a diameter between about 25 millimeters to about 30 millimeters.

15. The drug pad of claim 1, wherein the drug pad has a thickness between about 0.6 millimeters and about 1.5 millimeters.

16. The drug pad of claim 1, wherein the drug pad has a weight between about 700 grams per meter squared and about 1400 grams per meter squared.

17. The drug pad of claim 1, wherein the drug includes at least one of: 5-Methoxy-N, N- Dimethyltryptamine, cannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol, entactogen 3,4- methylenedioxymethamphetamine, ketamine, lysergic acid diethylamide, psilocybin, N,N- dimethyltryptamine, phenylalkylamine mescaline, second generation psychedelics, tryptamines, ergolines, nicotine, pentamidine, opioids, fentanyl, morphine, naloxone, and/or serotonergic compounds.

18. A drug cartridge operable to retain and deliver a drug, the drug cartridge comprising: a drug pad including a plurality of sintered metal fibers forming a plurality of pores; the plurality of pores defining a porosity of the drug pad; a drug retained on the plurality of sintered metal fibers; and a shell operable to contain the drug pad.

19. A method of preparing a drug pad for packaging and storage prior to releasing a drug retained on the drug pad, the method comprising: obtaining a drug; obtaining a drug pad having a plurality of sintered metal fibers forming a plurality of pores, wherein the plurality of pores define a porosity of the drug pad; metering the drug on the drug pad; and retaining the drug on the drug pad.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the retaining the drug on the drug pad includes removing solvent in the drug.

21. A method of releasing a drug from a drug pad, the method comprising: obtaining a drug pad having a drug stored thereon, the drug pad having a plurality of sintered metal fibers forming a plurality of pores, wherein the plurality of pores define a porosity of the drug pad; heating the drug pad to a vaporization temperature to transition the drug to a vapor phase as a vaporized drug; passing air through the plurality of pores of the drug pad to promote and release the vaporized drug from the drug pad at the vaporization temperature.

22. A drug kit comprising: a drug; a drug pad operable to retain the drug, the drug pad including: a plurality of sintered metal fibers forming a plurality of pores; the plurality of pores defining a porosity of the drug pad; wherein the drug pad is operable to retain the drug in a solidified form on the plurality of sintered metal fibers and is operable to be heated to release the drug in a vaporized form.

23. The drug kit of claim 22, further comprising a vaporizer operable to heat the drug pad to a vaporization temperature to transition the drug to a vapor phase as a vaporized drug.

24. The drug kit of claim 23, wherein the vaporizer is operable to pass air through the plurality of pores of the drug pad to promote and release the vaporized drug from the drug pad at the vaporization temperature.

25. A drug pad operable to retain a drug, the drug pad comprising: a plurality of sintered metal fibers forming a plurality of pores; the plurality of pores defining a porosity of the drug pad; wherein the drug pad is operable to retain the drug on the plurality of sintered metal fibers and is operable to be heated to release the drug in a vaporized form.