Biotech Molecules Delivered by HFA MDI Inhalation; 3M DDS Research Shows Viability Using Time-Tested Technology.

Business Editors & Health/Medical Writers

ST. PAUL, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 11, 2002

3M Drug Delivery Systems (DDS) Division has announced the results of its initial evaluation of hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) based metered dose inhalation (MDI) systems for delivery of biotech molecules. Using novel particle engineering technology in the production of respirable particles, allied with an extensive MDI formulation expertise, 3M has demonstrated that selected therapeutic protein molecules retained their activity for periods of up to six months in the HFA MDIs.

"To date, little emphasis has been placed on the pressurized MDI as a delivery system for proteins," said Beth Brown, research specialist with 3M DDS. "We believe our results demonstrate that a very simple alternative approach to delivering biotech molecules, which presents good shelf life characteristics, may be feasible."

The 3M DDS work is viewed as important for several reasons. MDI delivery is a well-understood, time-tested technology that is clinically sound. Physicians and patients have accepted MDIs since their introduction in 1956 because they are non-invasive and easy to use. The prospect of delivering new biotech pharmaceuticals by HFA MDI inhalation systems could prove to be a major advantage in the marketing of future products. The majority of current biotech products are delivered by injection or infusion. However, several biotech drug makers are exploring new ways to deliver existing products.

Frank Koppenhagen, senior scientist with 3M DDS, who also worked on the studies in the United Kingdom, stated that the investigations covered an assessment of particle size reduction processes, novel particle engineering technologies, dispersion in HFA propellant systems, and the effect of storage on protein stability. "We achieved successful results in all of these parameters and have demonstrated the clear potential of MDIs in the delivery of proteins. We view this as an extremely exciting result for future biotech development," said Koppenhagen.

The pulmonary delivery route clearly offers advantages to the patient for systemic delivery of biopharmaceutical products compared with conventional routes. The availability of a relatively large surface area, thin epithelial barrier and a low proteolytic enzyme activity level all contribute to the benefits of the pulmonary approach.

About 3M DDS

3M DDS is a global leader in the development of inhalation and transdermal technologies. As the creator of the first metered dose inhaler (MDI), the division has a 45-year history of medical innovation, including introduction of the world's first HFA inhalers. Today, 3M DDS components and services are used in over 50 percent of all global MDI devices. Likewise, the company also pioneered the Latitude transdermal drug delivery system, a drug-in-adhesive platform, that can be customized for a variety of therapeutic agents, while delivering medication through a patient's skin for up to a week. Over 80 percent of transdermal systems in the U.S. contain at least one 3M DDS component.

About 3M

3M is a $16 billion diversified technology company with leading positions in health care, safety, electronics, telecommunications, industrial, consumer and office, and other markets. Headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, the company has operations in more than 60 countries and serves customers in nearly 200 countries. 3M businesses share technologies, manufacturing operations, brands, marketing channels and other important resources. 3M is one of the 30 stocks that make up the Dow Jones Industrial Average and also is a component of the Standard & Poor's 500 Index. For more information about 3M go to www.3M.com or www.3M.com/profile/pressbox/index.jhtml.

3M and Latitude are trademarks of 3M company.