Interactive label for medication containers and dispensers

United States Patent [w]

de la Huerga

US005852590A [ii] Patent Number: [45] Date of Patent:

5,852,590 Dec. 22, 1998

[54] INTERACTIVE LABEL FOR MEDICATION CONTAINERS AND DISPENSERS

[76] Inventor: Carlos de la Huerga, 9190 N. Upper River Rd., River Hills, Wis. 53217

[21] Appl. No.: 832,613

[22] Filed: Mar. 28, 1997

Related U.S. Application Data

[60] Provisional application No. 60/033,491, Dec. 20, 1996.

[51] Int. CI. 6 G04B 37/00

[52] U.S. CI 368/10

[58] Field of Search 368/107-113, 10,

368/108; 221/2, 3, 15; 340/309.4; 364/569

[56] References Cited

U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS

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Primary Examiner—Bernard Roskoski
Attorney, Agent, or Firm—Sokol Law Office

[57] ABSTRACT

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 ol the invention, the interactive label is affixed to a vial ol a standard childprool 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 ol medication. A computer controlled locking assembly in the cap presents its removal before the prescribed time for taking the next dose ol 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 ol doses remaining in the container. The actual consumption information and inventory information is stored in the memory ol 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 ol medication. The blister pack is then placed in an automated dispenser.

60 Claims, 11 Drawing Sheets