In a monumental step toward sustainable respiratory healthcare, DevPro Biopharma and Bespak have unveiled DP007, a pioneering formulation of albuterol in a pressurized metered dose inhaler (pMDI). This innovative inhaler, developed in collaboration with Honeywell, boasts comparable performance to the widely-used Ventolin® HFA while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The completion of early feasibility studies marks a pivotal moment in the pharmaceutical industry's quest for eco-conscious healthcare solutions. With COPD affecting an estimated 384 million individuals worldwide and asthma impacting about 262 million, the transition to low-global warming potential (GWP) inhalers is both urgent and imperative.

CEO of DevPro Biopharma, Colin Reisner, emphasized the pressing need for environmentally friendly alternatives, stating, "Albuterol pMDIs account for approximately 45% of all pMDIs used globally, contributing substantially to global warming." With over 60 million prescriptions written annually in the US alone, the environmental impact of these life-saving inhalers cannot be overstated.

The groundbreaking formulation incorporates Honeywell’s Solstice® Air (HFO-1234ze(E) cGMP), a hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) propellant renowned for its near-zero GWP. Bespak, leveraging its expertise in inhaler development and manufacturing, spearheaded the formulation's creation at its Research Triangle Park, NC facility, under an exclusive agreement with DevPro Biopharma.

Chris Hirst, CEO of Bespak, echoed Reisner's sentiments, affirming the company's commitment to environmental stewardship. "We’re committed to leading the transition to low-GWP propellants in pMDIs to help halt the global warming caused by greenhouse gases," stated Hirst. "Our goal now is to transition as many pMDI products as possible to meet the requirements of evolving global legislation."

The unveiling of DP007 is set to take center stage at the 2024 Respiratory Innovation Summit, hosted by the American Thoracic Society during their International Conference at the San Diego Convention Center. The preliminary results of the early feasibility studies, showcasing the inhaler's efficacy and environmental benefits, will be presented on May 18.

This monumental development not only promises to revolutionize respiratory care but also underscores the pharmaceutical industry's commitment to sustainability. With clinical studies slated to commence by year-end, DP007 is poised to pave the way for a new era of climate-friendly healthcare, ensuring a healthier future for both patients and the planet.