United States Patent 9,119,554: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 9,119,554, titled "Pharma-informatics system," represents a significant innovation in the field of pharmaceuticals and healthcare technology. This patent, granted to inventors who developed a system for detecting the physical delivery of pharmaceutical agents, has far-reaching implications for patient compliance, drug administration monitoring, and the fight against illicit drug use.
Background and Motivation
The need for accurate and reliable methods to monitor drug administration has long been a challenge in healthcare. Traditional methods often rely on patient or clinician reporting, which can be inaccurate due to various factors such as patient compliance issues or mental capacity limitations. The invention described in US Patent 9,119,554 addresses these challenges by providing a system that automatically detects and records the physical delivery of pharmaceutical agents.
Key Components of the Invention
Compositions and Systems
The patent describes compositions that include an active pharmaceutical agent, an identifier, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. These compositions are designed to be disrupted upon administration to the body, such as through ingestion or injection, which triggers the identifier to report the delivery event[1].
Electronic Microchip Technology
A crucial aspect of this invention is the use of electronic microchips embedded within the pharmaceutical pills. These microchips are completely encased within the pill structure and can be interrogated using RF energy before ingestion. This technology allows for the unique identification of each pill and the automatic detection of its delivery into the body[1].
Smart Box and Interrogation System
The system includes a "smart box" that can interrogate each pill to ascertain its address and write a distinctive product number or code. This ensures that every pill has a unique identifier, which is particularly important for controlled substances to prevent illicit use[1].
Claims of the Patent
Automatic Detection and Reporting
The patent claims cover the automatic detection and reporting of pharmaceutical delivery events without requiring patient or clinician input. This feature is critical for ensuring accuracy and compliance, especially in cases where mental capacity is a concern[1].
Unique Identification
Each pill is provided with a unique identifier, which can be detected electrically or optically. This allows for precise tracking of the pill from manufacture to administration, helping to curb the illegal use of controlled substances[1].
Emergency and Clinical Applications
The system provides a record for emergency room technicians and doctors, enabling them to quickly ascertain a patient's medication history, including the last medication taken and dosage events within a specified time frame before admission[1].
Patent Landscape and Related Technologies
Prior Art and Innovations
The invention builds upon prior art in the field of pharmaceutical delivery systems but introduces significant innovations. The use of electronic microchips and the smart box interrogation system are novel features that enhance the accuracy and efficiency of drug administration monitoring[1].
Global Implications
The technology has global implications, particularly in the fight against illicit drug use. By providing a means to identify the source of controlled substances, it helps law enforcement agencies to track and curb the illegal distribution of these drugs[1].
Economic and Social Impact
Healthcare Efficiency
The automatic detection and reporting system can significantly improve healthcare efficiency by reducing errors in medication administration and enhancing patient compliance. This can lead to better health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs[1].
Law Enforcement
The ability to track controlled substances from authorized pharmacists to end-users can help in reducing the illicit use of these substances, thereby contributing to public safety and health[1].
Technical Details and Implementations
Electronic Circuits and Signal Generation
The patent includes detailed descriptions of various electronic circuits and signal generation methods used in the invention. Figures such as FIGS. 6A to 6D and FIGS. 11A to 13B provide insights into the fabrication and implementation of these circuits[1].
Interrogation and Data Storage
The system involves the transmission of RF energy to interrogate the microchip in the pill, which then reports back with its unique identifier. This information is stored and can be accessed by healthcare providers or law enforcement agencies as needed[1].
Future Developments and Challenges
Integration with Existing Systems
Future developments may involve integrating this technology with existing healthcare information systems to enhance its utility and accessibility. However, challenges such as data privacy, regulatory compliance, and cost-effectiveness will need to be addressed[1].
Ethical Considerations
The use of microchips in pharmaceuticals raises ethical considerations, such as patient privacy and the potential for misuse of the technology. These issues will need to be carefully managed as the technology becomes more widespread[1].
Key Takeaways
- Automatic Detection: The system automatically detects and reports the physical delivery of pharmaceutical agents without requiring patient or clinician input.
- Unique Identification: Each pill is provided with a unique identifier, enhancing tracking and compliance.
- Clinical and Emergency Applications: The system provides critical information for emergency room technicians and doctors.
- Global Implications: It helps in curbing the illicit use of controlled substances.
- Economic and Social Impact: Improves healthcare efficiency, reduces errors, and enhances public safety.
FAQs
Q: What is the primary innovation of US Patent 9,119,554?
A: The primary innovation is the use of electronic microchips embedded in pharmaceutical pills to automatically detect and report the physical delivery of these agents.
Q: How does the smart box interrogation system work?
A: The smart box interrogates each pill using RF energy to ascertain its unique identifier and writes a distinctive product number or code.
Q: What are the implications for law enforcement?
A: The system helps law enforcement agencies track controlled substances from authorized pharmacists to end-users, reducing illicit use.
Q: How does this technology improve healthcare efficiency?
A: It reduces errors in medication administration, enhances patient compliance, and provides critical information for healthcare providers.
Q: What are some of the ethical considerations associated with this technology?
A: Ethical considerations include patient privacy and the potential for misuse of the technology.
Cited Sources
- US9119554B2 - Pharma-informatics system - Google Patents[1]
