Phillips-Medisize working with Dance Biopharm on connected insulin inhaler

Phillips-Medisize has entered into an agreement with biotechnology company Dance Biopharm to develop a connected insulin inhaler.

The companies entered into a joint development (JDA) agreement to work on a connected version of the Dance 501 inhaler. Developed by Dance Biopharm, the small handheld electronic inhaler is designed to produce consistently sized particles of liquid insulin in the form of a soft mist. The Dance 501 has not yet been approved by any regulatory authority

Phillips-Medisize will work together with Dance Biopharm and bring its software and hardware capabilities to the device’s design. Phillips-Medisize will work on future enhancements to Dance’s devices as well as the commercial manufacture of Dance’s inhaled insulin device when it comes to market.

John Patton, chairman and chief executive officer of Dance Biopharm, said: “We believe our inhaled insulin product is state of the art and well-differentiated from powder based, non-electronic technology. It provides a platform for applying advanced digital medicine for diabetes management. We love Phillips-Medisize and the solutions they offer for this aspect of our product. Inhaled insulin offers the possibility of a cost effective, significant improvement in lifestyle – ease-of-use and compliance -- for diabetic patients all over the world. We believe that our convenient soft-mist product candidate may someday improve the lives of millions of patients.”

Bill Welch, chief technology officer, Phillips-Medisize, said: “Advancements in drug delivery device technology have created new ways to administer drugs, thereby improving reliability and therapy adherence. Dance’s breathable insulin technology will be a game changer for patients living with diabetes. Working closely with Dance to support a connected health strategy, product development, and manufacturing can enable faster global access to Dance’s innovative insulin delivery solution.”

It’s estimated that over 400 million people live with diabetes, a number that is expected to rise to 642 million by 2040. In 2015 diabetes was equivalent for $673 billion or 12% of global health expenditure.