초록 ▼

An electrotransport system (20) for delivery of a drug through the skin (63) of a patient includes a tactile signal generator (36) for generating and transmitting a tactile signal to the skin of a patient upon the occurrence of an event associated with the operation of the system. The tactile signal

An electrotransport system (20) for delivery of a drug through the skin (63) of a patient includes a tactile signal generator (36) for generating and transmitting a tactile signal to the skin of a patient upon the occurrence of an event associated with the operation of the system. The tactile signal may be an electric AC signaling current (Sr, Sp) applied through the skin, ie, an electric current different from the therapeutic electrotransport drive current. The electric signaling current is preferably a pulsed current of sufficient frequency and amplitude to allow the patient to feel it. The tactile signal may alternatively be generated by an electromechanical device in contact with the skin such as a piezoelectric vibrating element or magnetodynamic element such as a solenoid driven pin. The waveform of the tactile signaling current preferably has a zero average current component such that no net therapeutic drug is delivered by the tactile signal current. In certain cases, the tactile signaling current may contribute to electrotransport drug delivery.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An electrotransport drug delivery system which can signal, to a patient wearing the system, an occurrence of an event or condition associated with operation of the system, comprising:an electrotransport drug delivery system including a pair of electrodes, at least one of

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An electrotransport drug delivery system which can signal, to a patient wearing the system, an occurrence of an event or condition associated with operation of the system, comprising:an electrotransport drug delivery system including a pair of electrodes, at least one of which having a reservoir attached thereto, through which an electrotransport drug delivering current is applied to the patient;a sensor connected to the system for sensing an event or condition associated with the operation of the system;a tactile signal generator connected to the system, responsive to the sensor, for generating and transmitting an electric tactile signaling current through the pair of electrodes to the patient, the signaling current having a magnitude and waveform shape which is capable of being felt by the patient and which delivers little to no net drug to the patient.