Iconovo launches improved versions of nasal ICOone® inhalers
Iconovo AB (publ), which develops complete inhalation products for a global market, today launches improved versions of nasal ICOone®. Both inhalers are designed for high technical performance and to minimize the risk of user error. The development of the improved nasal ICOone® inhalers has taken place within the framework of a successful development collaboration with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
ICOone® Nasal inhalers are the world's only inhalation-driven nasal powder inhalers. The design of the improved versions of nasal ICOone® inhalers are based on results from the successful user study conducted by Iconovo in 2022 and development work carried out at Iconovo and presented at the Respiratory Drug Delivery 2023 meeting.
The updated versions of ICOone® Nasal can deliver vaccines to both the upper and lower airways, which recently published scientific studies indicate can be more effective than injecting vaccines. Developing vaccines utilizing Iconovo's inhalers offers companies a distinctive advantage, enabling the delivery of medicine to both the upper and lower airways.
"We are proud to have been able to quickly develop our unique inhalation platforms for nasal powder administration that are suitable for vaccines as well as antiviral treatments and drugs that can offer a rapid systemic effect," says Johan Wäborg, CEO of Iconovo.
The purpose of the development collaboration between Iconovo and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is to establish a fast track for inhaled therapies that can improve global healthcare, especially in low- and middle-income countries, in the event of a new virus pandemic. Globally, there is a huge need for a non-invasive, effective, and cost-minimizing method for administering vaccines and biologics for prophylactic viral treatment. Inhaled vaccines reduce the need for injections, and hereby the management of hazardous waste and the need for cold chain storage and transportation.
As previously announced, Iconovo's nasal powder inhalers are also being evaluated in a feasibility project with ENA Respiratory. Within the framework of the project, ICOone® Nasal is being tested with INNA-051, a broad-acting immunomodulatory treatment in a new class that is being developed to prevent complications associated with viral respiratory infections.
About ICOone® Nasal
ICOone Nasal is a unique, patented nasal powder delivery device for single use. It is driven by the inhalation of the user that gives a natural distribution of the powder on the nasal mucosa. By adjusting the size of the particles, the drug can be targeted to stay in the nose, partially or completely, or to be transported further down the airways. The inhaler comes with an ultra-low manufacturing cost thanks to the smart design which also makes it easy and intuitive to use. The simple design also enables patients and caregivers to learn how to handle the nasal delivery device with minimal training. It is particularly suitable for short-term treatment and as-needed use.