We therefore developed a LAIV formulation, the physicochemical properties of which were known. Estimates for methods and temperatures of filtration, expected losses in processing, procedures for setting titres and use of a diluting medium were based on experience with Selleckchem BMN 673 the measles vaccine. Results of subsequent studies on this ‘plug in’ approach matched scientifically predicted expectations. Being a pandemic vaccine, there was a need for it to be available in multi-dose vials for mass campaigns as well as in single doses for the commercial market. The vaccine was to be reconstituted with water and administered using a system that ensures accurate measurement of dose, maximum

reusable parts and for multi-dose vials, no shared contact of the device among recipients. However, certain hurdles were encountered such as producing water for inhalation for the single-dose diluent as the interaction of water for inhalation in such small volumes with type 1 glass vials resulted in conductivity shifts. While it is possible to overcome this issue with more expensive type 1 vials treated with ammonium sulphate, regulatory agencies need to review if this AZD2281 mouse increase in cost is justified, as conductivity is not as relevant a parameter for intranasal administration as it is for parenteral administration. An intranasal spray, rather than drops, was developed in order to maximize the coverage

area and reduce the potential of pulmonary entrainment in recipients in the upright position. The development of the device presented major challenges since it had to be inexpensive and have a dead volume <100 μL (a loss of vaccine easily compensated

by increasing the titre). Existing snap-on metered dose sprays did not fit SII’s 13 mm vials and would not guarantee that a consistent dose could be safely administered to multiple recipients. Therefore, a spray device fitted to the tip of a syringe was employed (Fig. 2). The syringe measured the dose accurately, and the spray device, in conjunction crotamiton with the syringe, generated a spray that maximized coverage and ensured sufficient positive displacement. This eliminated the need for the recipient to lie down during administration. Regarding packaging, there was a concern that vaccinators might mistake the vaccine as an injection if a needle is provided, especially since training in the field is not always optimum. The package was made needle free by developing a “needle-free transfer device” that cannot be used to inject the vaccine accidentally. This device is attached to a syringe to draw water from the vial, add it to the vaccine container and to withdraw the reconstituted vaccine. Similarly, the diluent was called “sterile water for inhalation” (SWFInh) instead of “water for injection” to avoid errors. Sterile water for inhalation is covered in the US pharmacopoeia.