초록 ▼

This invention relates to a multi-piece, automated medication container having a first piece with an interactive label and a machine readable and writable electronic memory strip. The memory strip contains prescription information, medication information and program codes that are downloaded to a se

This invention relates to a multi-piece, automated medication container having a first piece with an interactive label and a machine readable and writable electronic memory strip. The memory strip contains prescription information, medication information and program codes that are downloaded to a second piece having a computer processor. In one embodiment of the invention, the interactive label is affixed to a vial of a standard childproof container. The vial is sealed by an automated cap. The automated cap includes sensors for reading the information and codes on the memory strip and a memory for storing the information and codes. The automated cap also includes a display for visually or audibly indicating desired information to the patient, such as when to take the next dose of medication. A computer controlled locking assembly in the cap presents its removal before the prescribed time for taking the next dose of medication. The sensors also obtain actual medication consumption information based on when the container is opened. This actual consumption information is used to keep inventory information regarding the number of doses remaining in the container. The actual consumption information and inventory information is stored in the memory of the cap or sent to the interactive label to update the memory strip. The memory strip can also contain contraindication information for downloading to a personal home computer or a hospital or nursing home computer. In an other embodiment, the interactive label is affixed to a blister pack containing individual doses of medication. The blister pack is then placed in an automated dispenser.

대표청구항 ▼

[ I claim:] [1.] A medication container for containing doses of medication, said medication container comprising:a first piece having inside and outside surfaces, said inside surface defining a compartment, and said compartment containing the medication;a machine readable and writable, memory strip

[ I claim:] [1.] A medication container for containing doses of medication, said medication container comprising:a first piece having inside and outside surfaces, said inside surface defining a compartment, and said compartment containing the medication;a machine readable and writable, memory strip containing prescribed dosing regimen information for the medication, said memory strip being secured to said first piece in a predetermined location;a second piece adapted for removable securement to said first piece, said second piece having a sensor positioned to communicate with said memory strip when said second piece is secured to said first piece, said second piece having a computer processor, a timing device and a communication device, said timing device, communication device and sensor being in electrical communication with said computer processor, said prescribed dosing regimen information in said memory strip being transmitted to said computer processor when said first piece is secured to said second piece, said computer processor using said prescribed dosing regimen information and said timing device to develop a predetermined time to take the medication, and said computer processor communicating said predetermined time to said communication device; andwherein movement of said second piece causes a disruption in said communication to said computer processor, said timing device obtaining disruption time information corresponding to said movement of said second piece, and said disruption time information being recorded in said memory strip.