Characterization of lactose carrier for dry powder inhaler formulations

Title : Characterization of lactose carrier for dry powder inhaler formulations

Abstract:

Most dry powder inhalers are formulated by mixing micronized drugs with lactose as a carrier. Lactose is the major element in terms of weights in a dry powder inhaler formulation therefore, any changes in its physicochemical properties can affect drug detachment from the surface of the carrier hence, affect the performance of the dry powder inhaler. The aim of this study was to characterize the carrier using various analytical techniques such as atomic force microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, freeze fracturing and laser diffraction. This was carried out to ascertain the suitability of lactose as a carrier for dry powder inhalers. 

Audience take away:

• This work is novel. 
• The use of interesting analytical techniques which can benefit scientists working within the pharmaceutical, biological and chemical sectors.
• Obtain an understanding of how aerosols are formulated.
• To give an insight into the therapeutic aerosol. 

Biography:

Faiza Naseer is a PhD researcher at the University of Huddersfield working under the supervision of Dr El Hassane Larhrib. Prior to this, she completed her masters in pharmaceutical and analytical science also at the University of Huddersfield. During her masters, she gained the opportunity to carry out her research project within the inhalation field, where the passion to undertake a PhD in inhalation arose. She is currently working on engineering a lactose carrier which could be employed as a carrier in dry powder inhaler formulations.