The present invention relates to the delivery of sedative-hypnotics through
an inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing
sedative-hypnotics that are used in inhalation therapy. In a composition
aspect of the present invention, the aerosol comprises particles
comprising at least 5 percent by weight of a sedative-hypnotic. In a
method aspect of the present invention, a sedative-hypnotic is delivered
to a mammal through an inhalation route. The method comprises: a) heating
a composition, wherein the composition comprises at least 5 percent by
weight of a sedative-hypnotic, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the vapor
to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising particles,
which is inhaled by the mammal. In a kit aspect of the present invention,
a kit for delivering a sedative-hypnotic through an inhalation route to a
mammal is provided which comprises: a) a composition comprising at least 5
percent by weight of a sedative-hypnotic; and, b) a device that forms a
sedative-hypnotic containing aerosol from the composition, for inhalation
by the mammal.
