The present invention relates to the delivery of opioids through an
inhalation route. Specifically, it relates to aerosols containing opioids
that are used in inhalation therapy. In a method aspect of the present
invention, an opioid is delivered to a patient through an inhalation
route. The method comprises: a) heating a composition, wherein the
composition comprises an opioid, to form a vapor; and, b) allowing the
vapor to cool, thereby forming a condensation aerosol comprising
particles with less than 5% opioid degradation products. In a kit aspect
of the present invention, a kit for delivering an opioid through an
inhalation route is provided which comprises: a) a thin coating of an
opioid composition and b) a device for dispensing said thin coating as a
condensation aerosol.