Low-Cost, Needle-Free and Non-Refrigerated Treatment for Postpartum Hemorrhage

This project will involve the development of a novel aerosol delivery system for oxytocin that can be inhaled by patients from a simple, disposable device immediately after childbirth. This approach will remove the need for sterile conditions and trained health workers for administration of oxytocin. It will eliminate the risk of needle-stick injuries, transmission of blood-borne viruses and the costs associated with disposal of sharps and biohazard waste materials, as well as provide a more stable formulation of the drug that does not require cold-chain storage. This project will lead to increased access to proven evidence-based strategies for the prevention and treatment of post-partum hemorrhage for women in remote, rural communities. The product will be low-cost and have an immediate, substantial impact on maternal mortality and is not dependent on material resources, electricity, clean water or transportation to hospitals.