Spray pattern as a screening tool during early development of nasal sprays

Evaluation of device/formulation compatibility during early development is key to producing a successful nasal spray product. However, traditional tests (such as shot weight) may provide limited information by focusing mainly on spray pump performance. Further, droplet size distribution testing may fail to provide accurate measurements for certain formulations, such as those based on ethanol. In contrast, spray pattern and plume geometry can offer comprehensive insight into overall spray characteristics via flow visualization and are highly sensitive to changes in critical parameters such as device design and formulation.