DEVICE FOR CONTROLLED DELIVERY OF LIQUIDS

摘要

A controlled release device for delivering a liquid substance to a patient at a predetermined time following administration comprises a male hydrogel plug (2) engaged in the neck (4) of a female body (6). The liquid substance (12) is contained within a container (10) formed of a water-soluble material retained within the device, thereby preventing interference or interaction of the liquid with the remainder of the device. When the device is placed in an aqueous environment (e.g., the gastrointestinal tract) the hydrogel plug swells and disengages after a predetermined time, exposing the water-soluble container to the aqueous environment, and dissolution thereof to release the liquid.