EP1443996B1 — Aerosolization apparatus comprising connectable body and endpiece

USPTO Abstract

An aerosolization apparatus comprises a body having an inlet, an endpiece having an outlet, the endpiece being connectable to the body to define a chamber, wherein the chamber is sized to receive a capsule containing a pharmaceutical formulation in a manner which allows the capsule to move within the chamber. The apparatus further includes a connection mechanism to provide selective connection of the endpiece to the body, wherein a rotational force between the endpiece and the body is needed to connect or disconnect the endpiece from the body, the rotational force being applied about an axis passing through the chamber. When a user inhales, air enters into the chamber through the inlet so that the pharmaceutical formulation is aerosolized within the chamber and the aerosolized pharmaceutical formulation is delivered to the user through the outlet. The connection mechanism prevents inadvertent disconnection of the endpiece from the body.