Inhalation device with a dose-timer, an actuator mechanism, and patient compliance monitoring means
US5284133A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 23, 1992 |
| Grant date | Feb 8, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 23, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2205/52
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An inhalation device is provided with a mechanism to assure patient compliance with a drug dosage regimen. The control mechanism includes a controller (24), a timer (26), an actuator (28) and a signalling device (30). The controller (24) is programmed or preset with a time and dosage schedule for the drug to be delivered. For example, the controller (24) may be programmed to allow for two puffs from an MDI every eight hours. The actuator (28) operates in conjunction with the timer (26) and prevents the inhalation device from being actuated after the programmed dosage has been administered at the prescribed interval. The actuator (28) could be an electronically controlled valve (58) or pawl (66) arrangement or other suitable mechanism. The signaling device (30) provides an audible, visual or tactile sensation during the time period prescribed for administration of the drug so that the patient is reminded to inhale his or her medicine at the prescribed time intervals. The history of actuation, non-actuation, and improper attempts at actuation can all be recorded and analyzed off-site at a later by a physician, pharmacist, or other authorized health care professional.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.