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Publication Number
US-11241383-B2
Publication Date
2022-02-08
Expiration Date
Abstract
Alprazolam formulated as an inhaled condensation aerosol and method for treating epilepsy and/or seizures.
Core Innovation
The disclosed method treats epilepsy in a subject with a predictable evolution of seizures by administering alprazolam by oral inhalation as a condensation aerosol. It is directed to cessation of an ongoing focal seizure before progression to status epilepticus. The background section is not included in the provided text, so the problem identified there is not explicitly described in patent.
The disclosure describes aerosol particles intended for deep-lung delivery and reports rapid plasma uptake and seizure-related electroencephalogram and photosensitivity effects within about two minutes. It also describes use of a breath-activated, single-use inhaler. In a five-subject photosensitive-epilepsy study, doses reduced photosensitivity, and no serious adverse events are reported.
Claims Coverage
The provided claims identify one independent claim, claim 1, with three main inventive features.
Treatment of a predictable evolution of seizures
The claim covers a method for treating epilepsy in a subject with a predictable evolution of seizures, where treatment is cessation of an ongoing focal seizure that has not yet progressed to status epilepticus.
Oral inhalation of alprazolam
The claim requires administering alprazolam by oral inhalation in the form of a condensation aerosol.
Production of an alprazolam condensation aerosol
The claim specifies producing the condensation aerosol by vaporizing an alprazolam-containing film and cooling the vapor to produce particles containing alprazolam. [procedural detail omitted for safety]
The independent claim combines treatment of an ongoing focal seizure before status epilepticus with oral inhalation of alprazolam as a condensation aerosol and a specified high-level aerosol-generation approach.
Stated Advantages
Provides rapid rescue treatment for an ongoing seizure.
Allows self-administration.
Avoids rectal or intravenous administration.
Documented Applications
Treatment of epilepsy in subjects with a predictable evolution of seizures, including cessation of an ongoing focal seizure before it progresses to status epilepticus.
Use in photosensitive epilepsy, including the reported reduction of photosensitivity in a five-subject study.
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