PROGRAMMABLE TIME MOTORIZED TAMPERPROOF BLISTER PACK DOSAGE DISPENSER AND METHOD OF PREVENTING UNAUTHORIZED USE OF PHARMACEUTICALS AND OTHER ITEMS

摘要

A dispensing device for dispensing medications or other items required to be dispensed according to a predetermined schedule includes a mechanism for advancing a bandolier containing the medications or other items to a dispensing position only when activated by an authorized user at predetermined time intervals. Access to the bandolier is limited at all other times to personnel in a controlled facility. The dispensing device may be utilized to implement a method of controlling access to addictive prescription medications.

主权项

1. A dispensing device for dispensing controlled numbers of individual medication doses or other items at predetermined minimum intervals, comprising:
a casing including a compartment for installing one of a cartridge or bandolier, the cartridge or bandolier including a strip and a plurality of individual doses or items, wherein the cartridge or bandolier is locked in the casing; a strip advancing mechanism for advancing the strip to present one said individual dose or a predetermined number of said individual items for access by a patient; and a controller for preventing advancement of the strip unless predetermined criteria are met.