AEROCHAMBER PLUS* FLOW-VU* Chambers are Bisphenol A (BPA) Free

LONDON, ON, March 17 /CNW/ - Trudell Medical International is pleased to announce that AEROCHAMBER PLUS* FLOW-VU* anti-static Valved Holding Chambers are Bisphenol A Free. As always, the AEROCHAMBER PLUS* FLOW-VU* Chambers also remain free of Phthalates, Latex, Lead and PVC (Polyvinyl chloride). Trudell has recognized that consumers are beginning to voice their desire for more BPA Free products. "As a developer of respiratory devices for a global market, it is critical that we proactively respond to any potential health concerns," says Mark Pickard, Vice-President and General Manager of Trudell Medical International.

The innovations in the AEROCHAMBER PLUS* FLOW-VU* Chambers have been inspired by our users. The product line features a number of enhancements such as the easier to see FLOW-VU* Indicator which is an important feedback tool for parents and caregivers to assure them that inhalation of the medication is performed correctly. The AEROCHAMBER PLUS* FLOW-VU* Chambers are more consumer friendly with a compact size for people on the go, visually appealing graphics and simplified user instructions. We believe that these innovations will continue to position the product as the global leader in the Valved Holding Chamber category.

AEROCHAMBER* Valved Holding Chambers are the No.1 Physician(1) and Pharmacist(2) recommended chambers in Canada.

    
    About Valved Holding Chambers
    -----------------------------
    

Valved Holding Chambers are used along with a pressurized Metered Dose Inhaler (also simply known as a 'puffer' or 'inhaler'). Aerosol inhalers are commonly prescribed to treat respiratory symptoms such as wheezing or shortness of breath sometimes associated with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Typical aerosol inhalers deliver a dose of medication at speeds up to 8.4 meters per second.(3) Understandably, users often find it difficult to time inhalation of the medication at just the right moment. In fact, one study showed that only 9% of users were able to use the aerosol inhaler correctly.(4) The AEROCHAMBER PLUS* FLOW-VU* Chambers contain and suspend the medication until the user is ready to inhale it. Using AEROCHAMBER PLUS* FLOW-VU* Chamber with an inhaler helps to deliver the medication deep into the lungs where it is needed while minimizing potential for side effects such as bad taste and hoarseness.

    
    About Bisphenol A
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Bisphenol A is an industrial chemical used in the manufacture of a hard plastic called polycarbonate, which is often the basis of many plastic consumer products. In addition, BPA containing epoxy resins are often used to line the inside of metal-based food and beverage cans.

BPA is an endocrine disruptor(5), which can mimic the body's own hormones and may be associated with negative health effects if the dosage is high.(6) Researchers and regulatory agencies have expressed some concerns regarding Bisphenol A content in plastics. Current findings indicate low health risks from exposure to BPA, but the scientific community has been unable to come to an agreement regarding appropriate safe levels for consumer products.

    
    About Trudell Medical International
    -----------------------------------
    

Based in London, Ontario, Trudell Medical International has a strong history of leadership in creating innovative aerosol drug delivery products that enhance the quality of life for people of all ages. In addition to the AEROCHAMBER PLUS* Brand of Valved Holding Chamber, Trudell Medical International also develops and manufactures the AEROECLIPSE* II Breath Actuated Nebulizer and AEROCOUNT* Dose Indicators. For more information please visit www.trudellmed.com.

    
    * trade mark or registered trade mark of Trudell Medical International
    or an affiliate of Trudell Medical International

    (1) The Medical Post's 2008 survey on OTC counselling and
        recommendations.
    (2) Drugstore Canada's 2008 survey on OTC counselling and
        recommendations.
    (3) Hochrainer D, Hölz H, Kreher C, Scaffidi L, Spallek M, Wachtel H.
        Comparison of the Aerosol Velocity and Spray Duration of Respimat(R)
        Soft Mist(TM) Inhaler and Pressurized Metered Dose Inhalers. J.
        Aerosol Med. Vol 18, Number 3, 2005: 273-282.
    (4) Plaza V, Sanchis J, CESEA Group. Medical Personnel and Patient Skill
        in the Use of Metered Dose Inhalers: A Multicentric Study.
        Respiration 1998; 65:195-198.
    (5  0 Okada H, Tokunaga T, Liu X, Takayanagi S, Matsushima A,
        Shimohigashi Y. Direct evidence revealing structural elements
        essential for the high binding ability of Bisphenol A to human
        estrogen-related receptor-gamma. Environ. Health Perspect.2008;116
        (1):32-38. 6 Lang IA, Galloway TS, Scarlett A; et al. Association of
        urinary bisphenol A concentration with medical disorders and
        laboratory abnormalities in adults. JAMA. 2008;300(11): 1303-1310.
    

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For further information: Media Contact Information: Mark Pickard, Vice President & General Manager, Trudell Medical International, 725 Third Street, London, ON, N5V 5G4, Phone: [phone] x 2201, Fax: [phone], Email: [email protected]