Jet injector with data logging system for use in compliance and dose monitoring programs

Abstract

An integral data logging system for a jet injector includes at least one electrical switch that changes state (e.g. from OFF to ON) during an injection procedure. The switch(es) are connected to an electrical circuit having a microprocessor, a clock and an electronic memory. When a switch changes state, this information along with the applicable date and time is recorded in the electronic memory. A communications link is provided to upload the stored data to a remote computer for subsequent manipulation and analysis to determine compliance with a prescribed dosing regimen. In one implementation, the injection duration is logged by using a trigger release switch and an end-of-stroke switch. The end-of-stroke switch is configured to change state after the drive bar of the injector transits through the injector tube. The injection duration is indicative of dose amount and can be used to distinguish between valid and invalid injections.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 10 / 123,870 filed Apr. 15, 2002, which is currently pending, and which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60 / 283,840 filed Apr. 13, 2001. The contents of application Ser. No. 10 / 123,870 are incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention pertains generally to injectors for delivering a medicament into a patient. More particularly, the present invention pertains to needle-free jet injectors that are useful as part of a compliance and dose monitoring program. The present invention is particularly, but not exclusively, directed to a jet injector having an integral system capable of producing and recording injection information for subsequent use in determining compliance with a prescribed dosing regimen. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Evaluating the effectiveness of drug therapies often requires information regarding dose administration. Some therapies requir...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

If the dosing regimens are not followed due to a noncompliant patient, then the effectiveness of the therapy can be significantly diminished and the patient's condition may fail to improve.

Money expended on ineffective treatments is wasteful, which is a growing concern with rising health care costs.

Growth hormone is a very expensive therapy costing over $10,000 per year.

Additionally, the insurance carrier may refuse to reimburse patients for therapies that are ineffective due to non-compliance.

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