Pulmonary drug delivery is currently the focus of research and development because of its potential to produce maximum therapeutic benefit to patients by directing the drug straight to the lung disease site. Among all the available delivery options, one popular, proven and convenient inhaler device is the capsule-based dry powder inhaler (cDPI) for the treatment of an increasingly diverse range of diseases. cDPIs use a hard capsule that contains a powder formulation which consists of a mixture of a micronized drug and a carrier usually the lactose, known for its good lung tolerance. The capsule is either inserted into the device during manufacturer or by the patient prior to use. After perforating, opening or cut the capsule in the device, patients take a deep and rapid breath to inhale the powder, using air as the vector of drug displacement. The system is simple, relatively cheap and characterized by a lower carbon footprint than that of pressurized metered dose inhalers. This article reviews cDPI technology, focusing particularly on the importance of capsule characteristics and their function as a drug reservoir in cDPIs.

Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) significantly impacts patients’ quality of life, yet there is a notable lack of studies addressing the disease burden and patients’ perspectives compared to other conditions such as asthma and allergies. This project aimed to gather insights from both patients living with CRSwNP and healthcare professionals (HCPs) involved in its management, with the goal of better understanding their experiences and identifying shared unmet needs and expectations. Method: Twelve CRSwNP patients participated in2 focus groups (open-ended questions) facilitated by a moderator. The insights gathered were presented to an expert board comprising HCPs and expert patients, both of whom are members of the PAG. Patients involved in the expert board enriched the qualitative data collection providing narratives of their personal experience. Results: A total of 24 patients with CRSwNP participated in the analysis, 124 qualitative insights, distinct observations, comments or experiences related to their conditions, were gathered. The main priorities expressed were to decrease invasive procedures; avoid chronicity/reduce relapses; and create more opportunities for patients to be heard. Conclusion: Participants expressed expectations that extended beyond disease management, emphasizing the importance of their active involvement in shaping healthcare strategies. This project highlights the critical need to actively listen to the experiences and unmet needs of both patients and HCPs, integrating their perspectives into healthcare strategies to deliver practical, patient-centered improvements in the management of CRSwNP.

Phase III studies have demonstrated that the anti-TSLP biologic tezepelumab significantly reduces asthma exacerbations in severe asthma, regardless of endotype. However, evidence on its use in near-fatal asthma is lacking. Tezepelumab's ability to reduce bronchial hyperresponsiveness and ILC2, eosinophil, and mast cell activation may contribute to attenuating severe exacerbations.