Respiratory Drug Delivery (RDD®) returned to India for a two-day conference held at the Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty, Kerala. RDD Asia 2018 attracted approximately 200 delegates representing 16 nations. The majority of participants were from India, augmented by 23% from Europe, 11% from the rest of Asia and 8% from the USA. The pharmaceutical industry was well represented (31%), but there were strong showings by instrument (10%) and service companies (27%) who support Pharma, and a smaller contingent of government and academic scientists (7%).
Science from Around the World
Delegates were warmly welcomed by the conference chairman, Richard Dalby (University of Maryland, USA), before enjoying an insightful and informative plenary lecture from Rob Price (University of Bath, UK) speaking on “Challenging the Bioequivalence Hurdles for OINDPs: Achieving Q3 Structural Equivalence”. Additional presentations from international experts were offered in sessions addressing Advancing Regulatory Science of Inhaled and Nasal Products, Predictive Models to Support Inhalation Science, and Satisfying Patient Needs in the Global Marketplace. The audience responded positively to the high quality of science presented, and to timely topics relevant to innovator and generic product developers. This was apparent from delegate feedback and audience engagement during podium sessions.
Networking
RDD Asia 2018 again underscored India’s emergence in inhaled and nasal pharmaceutical development and patient care. The Scientific Poster Session, Technology Exhibition and Workshops created opportunities for lively interchange of ideas and thought-provoking discussion. With 26 exhibiting companies and 6 Workshop presentations, RDD Asia 2018 continued its tradition of proving numerous networking opportunities among scientists and companies, including first-time and perennial RDD attendees. The companies sponsoring workshops were kept particularly busy by a full afternoon with conference delegates who chose to attend workshops matching their specific interests. The Workshop sessions, with their small group, hands-on demonstrations and/or case study format, were particularly suited to exchange of detailed ideas and quick acquisition of relevant new knowledge directly applicable to pulmonary and nasal drug delivery. Workshop have proven to be an excellent tool for connecting scientists and business professionals to their suppliers, service providers and regulators in a relaxed atmosphere that fosters open communication. Exhibitors were available throughout both conference days to answer questions about their products and services and some reported barely having time to eat as a result.
The spectacular views at the welcome reception on the rooftop terrace of the Grand Hyatt Hotel got the networking started, and the evening Gala fiesta dinner on Thursday, sponsored by Aptar Pharma, on the Palm Lawns of the hotel, provided attendees with ample opportunity to unite with old friends and form new partnerships. The live entertainment and excellent food ensured laughter, dancing and lively discussions continued long past the planned end of the event.
Conference Proceedings
Peer-reviewed speaker papers and poster abstracts were made available in print to all delegates with access also available online. Subscription access to the entire searchable database of over 2,300 RDD papers, and hard copies of all previous conference proceedings are available via www.rddonline.com together with links to educational presentations, Respiratory Drug Delivery: Essential Theory and Practice (available in English and Chinese), specialized aerosol testing equipment, plus a calendar of events relevant to the aerosol scientist or manager.
Future Conferences
The organizers thank the presenters, moderators, exhibitors, sponsors and all those in attendance who make the annual Respiratory Drug Delivery series a success. We hope to see you at Respiratory Drug Delivery Europe 2019, to be held in Lisbon, Portugal, May 7-10, 2019, and Respiratory Drug Delivery 2020, to be held at the JW Marriott Desert Springs, Palm Desert, California, April 26-30, 2020. RDD and the International Pharmaceutical Aerosol Consortium on Regulation and Science (IPAC-RS) will collaborate to develop a coordinated program and follow-on symposium (April 30 - May 1) that will address The Global Regulatory Landscape and Advances in Digital Technology: Transforming the Patient Experience with OINDPs.
