The Intelligent Pill Is Now a Reality

The convergence of drugs and devices takes another step forward with the iPill from Philips.

The iPill is a small capsule that contains a microprocessor, a battery, wireless radio, a pump and a drug reservoir to release medication in a specific area in the digestive tract.

It measures acidity with a sensor to determine its location and can then release drugs precisely where they are needed. Delivering drugs to treat digestive tract disorders such as Crohn’s disease directly to the location of the disease reduces dosage levels and side effects, says Philips. Capsules containing miniature cameras are already used as diagnostic tools, but they lack the ability to deliver drugs.

The iPill can also measure the local temperature and report it wirelessly to an external receiver. The current design is a prototype, but it is suitable for serial manufacturing, says the company.

Source: Reuters

Tags: Drug delivery, iPill, Philips