Drug Delivery Systems

Drug delivery systems are a critical component of patient care. In drug delivery, the expectations of  "exact quantity on-time every time" call for equipment that is precise and reliable. Where the treatment of chronic conditions requires patient self-medication, the appropriate device must be robust, simple to use and, in effect, failsafe. Device disposability demands acceptable production economics at relatively large unit volumes.

Ticona’s range of engineering plastics offers several excellent candidates for these applications, particularly:

• Hostaform® MT™ and Celcon® MT™ acetal copolymers, also called polyoxymethylene (POM). These are easily-processed, highly-crystalline plastics delivering high strength, stiffness, toughness and lubricity over a broad range of temperatures and chemical environments. Common applications are in dispensers and dry powder and aerosol inhalers.
  
• Celanex® MT™ thermoplastic polyester, also known as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). Continuous use temperature ratings up to 140°C (284°F), chemical resistance, dimensional stability and excellent frictional properties in combination with POM parts lead to applications in mechanical components of drug delivery systems. Specialized filter media can also be produced from Celanex® PBT grade 2008 by melt blowing.
  
• Vectra® MT™ liquid crystal polymer (LCP) is an outstanding candidate for high precision parts requiring high stiffness in thin walls.  Common applications include needle-free syringes and internal components of dry powder inhalers.
  
• Fortron® MT™ polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) is a good choice where superior chemical resistance and good creep resistance under a continuous load are key requirements.

Naturally, Ticona’s medical technology grades offer compliance with the appropriate USP Class VI, ISO 10993 compatibility tests and FDA requirements, and  Drug and Device Master Files are active.