rotahaler

The Rotahaler is a type of dry powder inhaler (DPI) designed to deliver medication directly to the lungs for the treatment of respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Developed by Allen & Hanburys (now part of GlaxoSmithKline), it was introduced in the 1960s as an alternative to nebulizers and metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), offering a more portable and convenient method of administration.

The Rotahaler operates by using a rotating mechanism to dispense a precise dose of dry powder medication from a capsule. The user inserts a pre-filled gelatin capsule into the device, pierces it with a small blade, and then inhales sharply through the mouthpiece. The inhalation process draws the powder from the capsule into the lungs. This design eliminates the need for propellants, which are used in MDIs, and avoids the risk of coordination errors between actuation and inhalation.

The device is compact, lightweight, and does not require coordination between pressing a button and breathing, making it particularly suitable for patients who struggle with MDI techniques. However, it requires a strong inhalation effort to ensure proper drug delivery, which may be challenging for some users, particularly children or those with severe airflow obstruction.

The Rotahaler was widely used in the mid-to-late 20th century but has largely been phased out in favor of newer DPI technologies, such as the Diskhaler and Turbuhaler, which offer similar benefits with improved ease of use and patient compliance. Despite its discontinuation in many markets, it remains a historical example of early dry powder inhaler design and continues to be referenced in discussions about respiratory medication delivery systems.