Patent Description:
Electronic vapour provision systems such as e-cigarettes generally contain a reservoir of liquid which is to be vaporised, typically containing nicotine. When a user inhales on the device, a heater is activated to vaporise a small amount of liquid, which is therefore inhaled by the user.

The use of e-cigarettes in the UK has grown rapidly, and it has been estimated that there are now almost three million people using them in the UK. E-cigarettes typically deliver a vapour containing nicotine and/or flavour to the user. For users requiring an experience of flavoured inhalation then a flavoured vapour may be provided either in combination with nicotine or, indeed, without the delivery of any nicotine.

Current e-cigarette formulations typically utilise glycerol and/or propylene glycol as the excipient substances. It is found that that levels of volatile ingredients, such as flavours and in particular menthol, in electronic cigarette liquids reduce over time during storage. The loss of flavours is found to have a negative impact on sensory experience for consumers. Furthermore, the application rate of flavours is constrained by a limited solubility in the electronic cigarette base fluid (typically a mixture of glycerol, water and propylene glycol, optionally together with nicotine).

<CIT> discloses an e-cigarette liquid formulation comprising nicotine, cyclodextrin, a flavour and a combination of water, glycerol and one or more hydrophilic solvents, such as glycerol and propylene glycol.

In one aspect there is provided a flavoured vaporisable formulation comprising.

The present invention further provides a process for forming a vapour, the process comprising.

The present invention further provides a contained flavoured vaporisable formulation comprising.

The present invention further provides an electronic vapour provision system comprising:.

The present invention further provides a process for reducing loss of flavour over time of a flavoured vaporisable formulation.

The present invention further provides use of one or more cyclodextrins for reducing loss of flavour over time of a flavoured vaporisable formulation, wherein the flavoured vaporisable formulation comprises.

As discussed herein the present invention provides a flavoured vaporisable formulation comprising (i) one or more solvents; (ii) a flavour; and (iii) one or more cyclodextrins; wherein the flavoured vaporisable formulation contains water in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation; wherein the flavoured vaporisable formulation further comprises nicotine.

The use of cyclodextrins to solubilise hydrophobic drugs has been documented in the pharmaceutical industry. Specifically, cyclodextrins have been used where drugs are designed for treatment of respiratory diseases and therefore intended for deep lung inhalation.

Furthermore, the use of cyclodextrins to encapsulate flavours is known in consumer products, albeit not for products designed for inhalation. However, whilst cyclodextrin has been generally used to address solubility issues, in systems where solubility of hydrophobic components is not of concern the use of solubilising agents such as cyclodextrin would not be necessary. We have found that in the field of electronic cigarettes containing water in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation the use of one or more cyclodextrins can be used to reduce the loss of flavour over time of a flavoured vaporisable formulation.

For ease of reference, these and further aspects of the present invention are now discussed under appropriate section headings. However, the teachings under each section are not necessarily limited to each particular section.

The flavoured vaporisable formulation comprises one or more cyclodextrins (which may be substituted or unsubstituted). In these aspects, the one or more cyclodextrins may be selected from the group consisting of unsubstituted cyclodextrins, substituted cyclodextrins and mixtures thereof. In these aspects, the at least one cyclodextrin may be an unsubstituted cyclodextrin. In these aspects, the one or more cyclodextrins may be selected from the group consisting of unsubstituted cyclodextrins. In these aspects, the at least one cyclodextrin may be a substituted cyclodextrin. In these aspects, the one or more cyclodextrins may be selected from the group consisting of substituted cyclodextrins.

In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are selected from the group consisting of unsubstituted (α)-cyclodextrin, substituted (α)-cyclodextrin, unsubstituted (β)-cyclodextrin, substituted (β)-cyclodextrin, unsubstituted (γ)-cyclodextrin, substituted (γ)-cyclodextrin, and mixtures thereof.

As discussed herein, we have found that each of the α, β and γ variants of cyclodextrin may be used and the most suitable one may be selected depending on the 'guest' components, such as the present flavours, to be complexed.

In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are selected from the group consisting of unsubstituted (α)-cyclodextrin, unsubstituted (β)-cyclodextrin, unsubstituted (γ)-cyclodextrin, and mixtures thereof.

In some aspects of the invention the flavoured vaporisable formulation may comprises one or more substituted cyclodextrins. In these aspects, or in aspects in which the one or more cyclodextrins may be substituted or unsubstituted, the one or more cyclodextrins may be selected from the group consisting of substituted (α)-cyclodextrin, substituted (β)-cyclodextrin, substituted (γ)-cyclodextrin, and mixtures thereof.

In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are selected from the group consisting of <NUM>-hydroxy-propyl-α-cyclodextrin, <NUM>-hydroxy-propyl-β-cyclodextrin, <NUM>-hydroxy-propyl-γ-cyclodextrin and mixtures thereof. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins is at least <NUM>-hydroxy-propyl-α-cyclodextrin. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins is at least <NUM>-hydroxy-propyl-β-cyclodextrin. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins is at least <NUM>-hydroxy-propyl-γ-cyclodextrin.

We have found that <NUM>-hydroxy-propyl derivatives of cyclodextrins, such as <NUM>-hydroxy-propyl-β-cyclodextrin are particularly preferred since these derivatives have increased solubility in water when compared to base cyclodextrins such as β-cyclodextrin.

The one or more cyclodextrins may be present in any suitable amount in the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

As discussed herein, the flavoured vaporisable formulation comprises one or more solvents. The one or more solvents may be any suitable solvents. In one aspect, the one or more solvents is selected from water, glycerol, propylene glycol and mixtures thereof. Other suitable solvents will be apparent to one skilled in the art.

The one or more solvents may be present in any suitable amount in the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more solvents is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

As discussed herein, in one aspect the solvent is at least glycerol. The glycerol may be present in any suitable amount in the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

As discussed herein, in one aspect the solvent is at least propylene glycol. The propylene glycol may be present in any suitable amount in the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

As discussed herein, the flavoured vaporisable formulation contains water in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. This amount includes <NUM>% water based on the vaporisable formulation and therefore the flavoured vaporisable formulation may contain water or may not contain water.

In one aspect the flavoured vaporisable formulation contains water. The water may be present in any suitable amount in the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation. In one aspect water is present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation.

In an alternative embodiment, the solvent comprises substantially no water. In this regard, it is noted that some formulations may be hygroscopic and as such water ingress into the formulation cannot be ruled out. Accordingly, by "substantially no water" it is meant that the amount of water present is less than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

As used herein, the terms "flavour" and "flavourant" refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, are add with the intention to create a desired taste or aroma in a product for adult consumers. Thus, whilst it is acknowledged that some other functional components of the formulation may contain components that have a perceptible flavour or aroma, such components are not added for this purpose and as such are not considered to be a "flavour" or "flavourant" in the context of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be understood that "flavours" or "flavourants" may well composed of one or more individual compounds that together form an identifiable flavour. As such, reference here to "flavour" or "flavourant" includes both singular and multi-component flavours.

As discussed here the flavoured vaporisable formulation of the present invention comprises one or more flavours.

In one aspect the flavoured vaporisable formulation of the present invention comprises only one flavour. In one aspect the flavoured vaporisable formulation of the present invention comprises more than one flavour. In one aspect the flavoured vaporisable formulation of the present invention comprises two or more flavours. In one aspect the flavoured vaporisable formulation of the present invention comprises only two flavours. In one aspect the flavoured vaporisable formulation of the present invention comprises three or more flavours. In one aspect the flavoured vaporisable formulation of the present invention comprises only three flavours. In one aspect the flavoured vaporisable formulation of the present invention comprises four or more flavours. In one aspect the flavoured vaporisable formulation of the present invention comprises only four flavours. In one aspect the flavoured vaporisable formulation of the present invention comprises five or more flavours. In one aspect the flavoured vaporisable formulation of the present invention comprises only five flavours.

In one aspect the one or more flavours are selected from the group consisting of extracts (e.g. liquorice, hydrangea, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, peach, apple, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, piment, ginger, anise, coriander, coffee, or a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha), flavour enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators or stimulators, sugars and/or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents. They may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example, oil, liquid, or powder.

In one aspect the one or more flavours are selected from the group consisting of (<NUM>-(para-)methoxyphenyl)-<NUM>-butanone, vanillin, γ-undecalactone, menthone, <NUM>-propenyl guaethol, menthol, para-mentha-<NUM>-thiol-<NUM>- and mixtures thereof.

In one aspect the flavour is at least menthol. In one aspect the flavour is only menthol. In one aspect menthol comprises at least 30wt. % of the flavours present in the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect menthol comprises at least 40wt. % of the flavours present in the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect menthol comprises at least 50wt. % of the flavours present in the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect menthol comprises at least 60wt. % of the flavours present in the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect menthol comprises at least 70wt. % of the flavours present in the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

In one aspect, at least one of the one or more flavours is hydrophobic. In one aspect each of the one or more flavours is hydrophobic.

The one or more flavours may be present in any amount to deliver the desired flavour to the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM>. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of no greater than <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of at least <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM>. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM>. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect the one or more flavours are present in a total amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

We have found that the addition of the one or more flavours in a molar excess with respect to the one or more cyclodextrins may result in the one or more flavours precipitating from the formulation. Therefore in one aspect, the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a molar excess with respect to the one or more flavours. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours is at least <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours is at least <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours is at least <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours is at least <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours is at least <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours is from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours is from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours is from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours is from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours is from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>.

The flavoured vaporisable formulation of the present invention may contain one or more further components. These components may be selected depending on the nature of the formulation. In one aspect, the flavoured vaporisable formulation further comprises an active agent. By "active agent" it is meant an agent which has a biological effect on a subject when the vapour is inhaled. The one or more active agents may be of synthetic or natural origin. The active could be an extract from a botanical, such as from a plant in the tobacco family. An example active is nicotine.

In one aspect, the active agent is at least nicotine. Thus, the present invention may provide a flavoured vaporisable formulation comprising a flavoured vaporisable formulation comprising (i) one or more solvents; (ii) a flavour; (iii) one or more substituted cyclodextrins; and (iv) nicotine. The present invention may further provide a flavoured vaporisable formulation comprising (i) one or more solvents; (ii) a flavour; (iii) one or more cyclodextrins, wherein the total content of cyclodextrins is at least 1wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation; and (iv) nicotine.

Nicotine may be provided at any suitable amount depending on the desired dosage to be inhaled by the user. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of no greater than <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of no greater than <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of no greater than <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of no greater than <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of no greater than <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of less than <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of less than <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to less than <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to less than <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to less than <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to less than <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to less than <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to less than <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to less than <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from <NUM> to less than <NUM> wt% based on the total weight of the flavoured vaporisable formulation.

As discussed herein, we have found that each of the α, β and γ variants of cyclodextrin may be used and the most suitable one may be selected depending on the 'guest' components, such as the present flavours, to be complexed. We have found that the β variant complexes well with nicotine and other structurally similar active substances, so a small inclusion level is likely. <NUM>-hydroxy-propyl-β-cyclodextrin complexes well with cyclic molecules which includes nicotine, but also key flavour components such as menthol and vanillin.

We have found that the addition of a combination of the one or more actives and the one or more flavours in a combined molar excess with respect to the one or more cyclodextrins may result in the actives and flavours precipitating from the formulation. Therefore in one aspect, the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a molar excess with respect to total combined amount of the one or more flavours and the one or more actives. In one aspect, the one or more cyclodextrins are present in a molar excess with respect to total combined amount of the one or more flavours and nicotine. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours and nicotine combined is at least <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours and nicotine combined is at least <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours and nicotine combined is at least <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours and nicotine combined is at least <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours and nicotine combined is at least <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours and nicotine combined is from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours and nicotine combined is from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours and nicotine combined is from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours and nicotine combined is from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>. In one aspect, the molar ratio of cyclodextrins to flavours and nicotine combined is from <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>.

As discussed herein, the present invention provides a process for forming a vapour, the process comprising.

The flavoured vaporisable formulation may be contained or delivered by any means. In one aspect the present invention provides a contained flavoured vaporisable formulation comprising.

The container may be any suitable container, for example to allow for the storage or delivery of the formulation. In one aspect the container is configured for engagement with an electronic vapour provision system. The container may be a bottle. The container may be configured to become fluidly in communication with an electronic vapour provision system so that formulation may be delivered to the electronic vapour provision system. As described above, the present disclosure relates to container which may be used in an electronic vapour provision system, such as an e-cigarette. Throughout the following description the term "e-cigarette" is used; however, this term may be used interchangeably with electronic vapour provision system.

As discussed herein, the container of the present invention is typically provided for the delivery of flavoured vaporisable formulation to or within an e-cigarette. The flavoured vaporisable formulation may be held within an e-cigarette or may be sold as a separate container for subsequent use with or in an e-cigarette. As understood by one skilled in the art, e-cigarettes may contain a unit known as a detachable cartomiser which typically comprises a reservoir of flavoured vaporisable formulation, a wick material and a device for vaporising the flavoured vaporisable formulation. In some e-cigarettes, the cartomiser is part of a single-piece device and is not detachable. In one aspect the container is a cartomiser or is part of a cartomiser. In one aspect the container is not a cartomiser or part of a cartomiser and is a container, such as a tank, which may be used to deliver flavoured vaporisable formulation to or within an e-cigarette.

In one aspect the container is part of an e-cigarette. In one aspect the present invention further provides an electronic vapour provision system comprising:.

In addition to the flavoured vaporisable formulation of the present invention and to systems such as containers and electronic aerosol provision systems containing the same, the present invention provides a process for reducing loss of flavour over time of a flavoured vaporisable formulation.

The process of the present invention may comprises additional steps either before the steps listed, after the steps listed or between one or more of the steps listed.

In addition to the flavoured vaporisable formulation of the present invention and to systems such as containers and electronic aerosol provision systems containing the same, the present invention provides use of one or more cyclodextrins for reducing loss of flavour over time of a flavoured vaporisable formulation, wherein the flavoured vaporisable formulation comprises (i) one or more solvents; and (ii) a flavour; and (iii) one or more cyclodextrins; wherein the flavoured vaporisable formulation contains water in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt. % based on the vaporisable formulation; wherein the flavoured vaporisable formulation further comprises nicotine.

The present invention will now be described in further detail by way of example only with reference to the accompanying figure in which:-.

The invention will now be described with reference to the following non-limiting example.

Base Formulation <NUM> was prepared containing:.

Into this base formulation was incorporated a variety of <NUM>-hydroxy-propyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-B-CD) and menthol amounts as described below:.

The products were subjected to visual inspection and the results given below. Solubilisation was considered to have occurred when substantially no menthol crystals could be visualised. Where the menthol crystals were considered to have solubilised the sample was given a Y (yes, solubilised). Where the menthol crystals were considered to have solubilised the sample was given a N (no, not solubilised).

Phase solubility was also studied and the results of this are shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

These analytical data support the solubility trend seen observationally in formulations i.e. menthol concentration is increased with increasing cyclodextrin concentration. A linear relationship of increased menthol concentration when increasing HP-B-CD concentration was observed. Approximately <NUM>% increase in menthol concentration was found from <NUM>%HP-B-CD to <NUM>%HP-B-CD.

In addition to Base Formulation <NUM> (described above), Base Formulation <NUM> was prepared containing:.

Base Formulation <NUM> and Base Formulation <NUM> containing <NUM>%, <NUM>% and <NUM>%w/w HP-B-CD were prepared. <NUM> of each base formulations were spiked with <NUM> menthol. and <NUM> of a flavour comprising essential oils. <NUM> headspace of volatile compounds was analysed to study whether cyclodextrins reduce the volatility of flavour compounds and thereby reduce flavour loss from cartomiser units. The method of analysis is shown in <FIG>. The concentrations of HPBCD used (w/w) were <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% and <NUM>% and the following procedure was followed:.

Claim 1:
A flavoured vaporisable formulation comprising
(i) one or more solvents;
(ii) a flavour; and
(iii) one or more cyclodextrins;
wherein the flavoured vaporisable formulation contains water in an amount of from <NUM> to <NUM> wt.% based on the vaporisable formulation;
wherein the flavoured vaporisable formulation further comprises nicotine.