A Breath of Fresh Air From CSMA's Inhaler Testing Team

CSMA Ltd, CERAM subsidiary and internationally renowned centre for surface and materials analysis, has developed a comprehensive package of testing services specifically designed to aid manufacturers of medical inhalers.

Using state-of-the-art imaging technology and surface analysis techniques, CSMA can provide valuable solutions for all aspects of the inhaler manufacturing chain, from initial drug delivery system research to component cleanliness validation and process troubleshooting.

Shaun Bainbridge, sales & marketing manager at CSMA, explains: “By using powerful ToFSIMS imaging technology we are able to map the distribution of active drugs on excipient carriers which can provide formulation teams with valuable information to develop efficient drug delivery mechanisms.

The bismuth cluster source we use for this particular type of work provides the highest sensitivity levels possible today, ensuring maximum research accuracy.”

CSMA's cleanliness validation services are equally valuable, with XPS surface analysis techniques making light work of quantifying contaminants that may be affecting the cleanliness levels of inhaler component parts and therefore their regulatory legality.

Finally, CSMA's team of experts can identify 'final link' issues in the inhaler manufacturing and supply chain, including potential packaging problems and the effectiveness of surface treatments.

To find out more about CSMA's services in the medical device sector, please contact Dr Justine Bentley on +44 (0)1782 764235 or email justinebentley@csma.ltd.uk

[September 2007]