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The Winds of Change: Have We Finally Reached the Nirvana of a More Sustainable Pressurized Metered Dose Inhaler?

Smalley N.

Respiratory Drug Delivery 2026. Volume 1, 2026: 22-0.

Abstract:

This review article discusses the ongoing transition to lower global warming potential (GWP) propellants used in pressurized metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) in the context of the global phasedown in the use of F-gases mandated by the Kigali amendment to the Montreal Protocol. More commonly now referred to by the industry as ‘next generation propellants’ or ‘NGPs’ these new propellants have up to 99% lower global warming potential when compared to the existing versions.

Based on a review of publicly available information, current industry progress towards a more sustainable pMDI product is described and economic, legislative and social factors which are seen to clearly be driving that transition are highlighted. This article also, however, considers those factors which may be limiting the speed of transition as the pMDI industry grapples with fulfilling its environmental obligations whilst, at the same time protecting both their business and the supply of critical medicinal products to patients.