Abstract: A drug delivery device 10 has a support structure 20 and a medicine-laden member 100 affixed or otherwise attached to the support structure 20. The device 10 is sized to fit into the mouth and upon exposing the medicine-laden member 100 to saliva, medicaments 101 are released into the mouth. The drug delivery device 10 permits a new method of medication delivery. The method of oral transmucosal drug delivery has the steps of providing a drug delivery device 10 that fits into the mouth, the device 10 having a medicine-laden member 100; wearing the drug delivery device 10; activating release of medicine 101 by contact with saliva; and transmitting the released medicine 101 transmucosally to the bloodstream.

Abstract: A pacifier for administering medicine comprising: a ring; a nipple, where the nipple connects to the ring; a shield surrounds the nipple, where the shield abuts a connecting ring; a threaded ring extending from the shield and connects to the connecting ring; an opening within the threaded ring for the insertion of liquid medicine; and a hole at the tip of the nipple that allows for the passage of the medicine from the nipple for administration to an infant user. In one exemplary embodiment, a flavoring covers the surface of the nipple. The nipple may hold a predetermined amount of medicine.

Abstract: An emergency medication storage and integrated single use device for providing oral dissolving medications strips in a convenient transparent transfer environment. A thin card size dispenser holds a single medicated strip in user access orientation positioned for direct card insertion to the user's mouth assuring proper dispensing of the medication in an emergency situation.

Abstract: A method is disclosed in which a vapor-deposited coating or layer is directly or indirectly applied to at least a portion of the internal wall of the barrel of a capped pre-assembly comprising a barrel, optionally a dispensing portion, and a cap. The cap is secured to the barrel and at least substantially isolates the distal opening of the dispensing portion from pressure conditions outside the cap. A vapor-deposited coating or layer is applied directly or indirectly to at least a portion of the internal wall of the barrel while the pre-assembly is capped. The coating or layer is applied under conditions effective to maintain communication from the barrel lumen to the exterior via the front opening, optionally further via the dispensing portion lumen if present, at the end of the applying step. The capped pre-assembly can be pressure tested easily and rapidly, for example with a test duration between 1 and 60 seconds, to determine whether it has container closure integrity.

Abstract: A system and method of topically applying an anesthetic, or other medication, to one or both lips of the mouth. An applicator device is provided that has a curved first wall, a curved second wall, and a horizontal shelf that joins the first wall to the second wall. The first wall, the second wall and the horizontal shelf combine to define either one or two curved lip compartments. A volume of the anesthetic, or other medication, is placed within the curved lip compartments. The applicator device is partially placed in a person's mouth so that the second wall is positioned between the back of the lips and in front of the teeth. While in this position, the lip of the user passes into the curved lip compartment and is contacted by the anesthetic.

Abstract: A device for delivering an agent into breast milk while breastfeeding. In one embodiment, the device includes a breast shield modified to engage a non-woven material which has been impregnated with a milk soluble active agent such as sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS). A lactating animal, e.g. a woman, uses this agent-delivering breast shield during breastfeeding to administer prophylactic or therapeutic agents to a suckling infant. The inventions are particularly well suited to preventing transmission of HIV virus from mother to child. Alternatively, the agent-laden material could be used with a baby bottle nipple or pacifier.

Abstract: Embodiments of devices and system for controllable nasal delivery of materials are described. Methods of use of such devices and system and software for controlling the operation of such devices and systems are also disclosed.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for implementing or deploying medical or veterinary utility modules comprising a first module operable in a digestive or respiratory tract to engage a second module, optionally by a magnetic field. Alternatively or additionally, systems may be operable to remain in situ and also operable to permit a therapeutic material dispensation. In some contexts, for example, systems or methods may dispense a therapeutic material via a subject's throat or elsewhere in the digestive or respiratory tract.

Abstract: Appliances for oral use including compositions containing polymetal complexes useful in treating disorders of the oral mucosa, lips, and perioral region are described.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for implementing or deploying medical or veterinary utility modules (a) operable for mooring at least partly within a digestive tract, (b) small enough to pass through the tract per vias naturales and including a wireless-control component, (c) having one or more attachment protrusions positionable adjacent to a mucous membrane, (d) configured to facilitate redundant modes of attachment, (e) facilitating a “primary” material supply deployable within a stomach for an extended and/or controllable period, (f) moored by one or more adaptable extender modules supported by a subject's head or neck, and/or (g) configured to facilitate supporting at least a sensor within a subject's body lumen for up to a day or more.

Abstract: An apparatus for connection to a bottle to assist with pill ingestion includes a generally cylindrical hollow base portion manufactured from a first predetermined material and having a first predetermined size for insertion into a mouth of such bottle. A mechanism is disposed at a predetermined location on such base portion for sealingly engaging such base portion to an interior surface of such mouth of such bottle. A generally cylindrical hollow top portion is operably connected to such base portion closely adjacent an upper end of such base portion, such top portion is manufactured from a second predetermined material and has a second predetermined size and includes an open top end. A mesh material is fixedly disposed at a predetermined location within one of such base portion and such top portion for supporting at least one pill thereon.

Abstract: A probiotic composition including a probiotic microorganism embedded within a matrix, the matrix substantially maintaining the viability of said microorganisms. The matrix releases said microorganisms into and upon contact with a liquid carrier. The invention includes methods for manufacturing the composition, particular forms of the composition (2) and as apparatus for administration.

Abstract: A system comprising first and second drug delivery devices (1) based on the same technology platform, each comprising a main portion (3) with a reservoir holding a type of drug, a drug outlet, and drug expelling means for expelling drug from the reservoir through the drug outlet, as well as a cap (100) releasably mountable to the main portion to enclose the drug outlet, each cap comprising a unique user-identifiable marking indicating the corresponding type of drug. The cap and main portion of each drug delivery device comprise a pair of corresponding key structures preventing the first cap from being mounted on the second main portion, and the second cap from being mounted on the first main portion.

Abstract: An oral syringe of the type having a syringe barrel terminating in a syringe neck with a blunt orificed end is combined with a medication bottle provided with a self resealing elastomeric closure designed for admitting the syringe neck into the bottle while maintaining a sufficient liquid tight seal against the syringe neck to allow a dose of medication to be drawn from the bottle in an inverted condition of the bottle without significant leakage, the closure resealing itself upon withdrawal of the syringe neck.

Abstract: Disclosed is a straw that consists of a fluid tube including a upstanding continuous sidewall having a proximal end forming an outlet, and an opposing distal end forming an inlet. The outlet and the inlet allow liquids to be drawn through the fluid tube from the distal end to the proximal end under suction pressure. A port extends through the continuous sidewall adjacent the proximal end thereof. The outlet defines a first size, the inlet defines a second size, and the port defines a third size. The second size is at least one of equal to and greater than the first size, and the third size is at least one of equal to and greater than the first size.

Abstract: An oral administration device having a nipple member and a frangible seal is disclosed. An oral administration system having a nipple member and a syringe to fill the nipple member is disclosed. An oral administration device having a vacuum package surrounding the oral administration device is also disclosed.

Abstract: A dental device has a U-shaped carrier with at least one channel for embracing an arch of teeth. The carrier has recessed insets in the channel. Discrete inserts carrying a beneficial agent can fit into the insets and release the agent gradually. The device may be used in a therapeutic application and as an athletic mouthguard. Temporary blanks may be initially fitted in the insets while a portion of the mouthguard is softened before an arch of teeth is pressed into the channel to make a custom impression. The inserts possess different physical properties than the carrier and may be positioned and shaped to mechanically buffer teeth of the arch from mechanical shocks as well as release beneficial agents. The inserts may be replaced or refreshed to maintain the beneficial agent. A dental device having a core carrying a beneficial agent inside a liquid-permeable shell functions as an infant's teething device.

Abstract: Solid and semi-solid formulations are used for supralingual administration of vaccines to animals. The formulations, which comprise antigens dispersed in a solid or semi-solid matrix, or paste, are delivered via supralingual applicators. The supralingual applicators are designed so as to position the antigen-containing matrix directly on the dorsal surface of the tongue during vaccine delivery. Upon exposure to saliva and to suckling and/or licking action of the tongue, the matrix dissolves and releases antigens to the tongue. In some embodiments, the antigens are viruses, for example, attenuated viruses that are capable of infecting cells of the tongue, e.g. canine parvoviruses which infect basal tongue cells. The supralingual applicators are especially useful for the delivery of vaccines to newborn animals.

Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of intra-oral taste modification devices, both erodible and non-erodible, and methods for using the devices, and methods and kits for making the devices, for controlling food intake by reducing the desire to eat highly sweetened foods and refined carbohydrates.

Abstract: A patient hydration system comprises a bladder, a flexible tube, a safety guard, and a mouthpiece. The bladder can be a generally rectangular-shaped pouch designed to hold liquids. The bladder can have an attachment means whereby a retention member can be used to hang the bladder. The bladder has a port that allows the attachment of the flexible tube. The tube is also connected to the safety guard and mouthpiece. The contents of the bladder flow through the tube and out of the mouthpiece on demand. A keeper clip can be added in proximity to the mouthpiece. The safety guard provides a substantial handle for grasping and maneuvering the system, ensures that the mouthpiece is not inadvertently swallowed by the patient, and protects the mouthpiece from surface contamination if the mouthpiece is placed on a table, plate, etc.

Abstract: A fluid containment and dispensing system includes a sealed, variable-volume containment device having a movable plunger slidably mounted within a barrel, and a sealing head having a seal insert retained thereon. A seal arrangement includes a self-resealing cross-slit opening, an internal sealing ring for engaging a corresponding coupling of a compatible device, and a raised peripheral seal ring for sealing engagement with a closure lid.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for implementing or deploying medical or veterinary utility modules comprising a first module operable in a digestive or respiratory tract to engage a second module, optionally by a magnetic field. Alternatively or additionally, systems may be operable to remain in situ and also operable to permit a therapeutic material dispensation. In some contexts, for example, systems or methods may dispense a therapeutic material via a subject's throat or elsewhere in the digestive or respiratory tract.

Abstract: An oral fluid delivery device is provided with a body having a base and a nipple extending from the base. At least one channel projects through the nipple. A fluid reservoir has a proximal end that is secured to the base to form an integrated unit, and a distal end with a vent hole formed therethrough for equalizing pressure within the fluid reservoir. A valve is disposed between the fluid reservoir and the channel for restricting fluid flow through the channel. A piston may be disposed within the fluid reservoir and adapted for translating relative to the base corresponding to the amount of fluid contained within the fluid reservoir.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for oral application of a composition. The device comprises recess having an outer rim encompassing the recess. Within the recess, a composition is arranged. The composition comprises a gelling agent and an active agent. A cover member is attached to the rim and completely covers the recess. Thus, the cover member, together with the recess, retains the composition within the recess. The cover member has an outer surface opposed to an inner surface adjoining the recess. In order to allow preparation of the composition by adding water without the risk of losing some of the composition during preparation, the cover member comprises one or more openings for providing fluidic connection between the inner surface and the outer surface. Through this opening, water can enter for preparing the composition meanwhile the cover retains all composition within the recess. The invention further relates to a method for manufacturing the device.

Abstract: The invention provides a medicine dispenser device for liquids intended to be swallowed, particularly by children and patients who find it difficult to cooperate, the device comprising an elongated cylinder serving as a container for the liquid, the device being provided, in accordance with the requirements of its use and the type of liquid to be dispensed, with at least one dispensing exit outlet at the distal end of the cylinder, the cylinder having a longitudinal axis and the at least one dispensing outlet being positioned to direct at least one stream of dispensed liquid at an angle of between 20° and 170° relative to the distal end of the longitudinal axis of the container, the safety arrangement of the device being such that upon introduction of the distal end of the device into the mouth of a patient, the at least one stream of dispensed liquid is directed to exit towards at least one enveloping surface of the mouth cavity and not in a direction toward the patient's windpipe and the throat opening.

Abstract: A pill dispenser includes a housing having front, rear, and side walls defining a hollow interior. A pill holding member is removably coupled to the housing front wall and defines a frontward bore configured to receive a pill and being in operative communication with the housing front opening. An elongate plunger shaft having proximal and distal ends is positioned extends through the housing. The shaft is movable between a retracted configuration in which the distal end extends from the housing rear wall and an actuated configuration in which the distal end is adjacent the housing rear wall. A spring is positioned in the dispenser housing and operatively connected to the plunger shaft for selectively moving the plunger shaft between the retracted and actuated configurations so as to eject a pill from the holding member. The shaft may be retracted to selected positions before being spring actuated to dispense a pill.

Abstract: Devices and methods for a palatal patch include a tablet or strip having a bioadhesive component and an active component. The bioadhesive component allows for the palatal patch to be attached to an upper palate, and for the active component to be released into the oral cavity and/or GI tract. Compositions for the active component include compositions for treatment of halitosis, anti-acids, vitamins, anti-smoking agents, and others. A composition for treatment of halitosis includes at least one of Echinacea, Lavender, Mastic Gum and Sage. A device for delivery of the palatal patch to the upper palate includes a housing and a piston, the piston having a holder for the palatal patch, and wherein the piston may be configured to move distally so as to delivery the palatal patch to the upper palate.

Abstract: Topical mixtures with ranges of permeability which promote dermal healing, wound stage arrest, skin cooling, and patient comfort through pH adjustment, therapeutic ingredient carriage, water and oxygen delivery, with superior aesthetics and ease of cleaning features.

Abstract: A device for inserting a medicament within a body cavity of a mammal, the device including a cartridge for containing the medicament, the cartridge including a housing, a retractable chamber disposed within the housing and having a lumen sized to contain the medicament, a stationary member disposed within the lumen and having a sized to provide a sliding fit within the lumen to provide for retraction of the retractable chamber about the stationary member upon actuation of the device, and means for retracting the retractable chamber while maintaining the stationary member in a stationary position. The device further includes means for activating the means for retracting the retractable chamber. The device further includes an actuator, the actuator including a handle case having a proximal portion for gripping and a distal portion including means for attaching the actuator to a cartridge.

Abstract: The invention provides a packaging and administering device for administering a hydro-alcoholic solution by passing through a mucous membrane, the device comprising a deformable container for receiving at least one first fraction of the solution, a base that is secured to the container, and an administering tube that is secured to the base and that is suitable for receiving at least one second fraction of the solution, and that includes a cap. The tube includes a chamber for containing the at least one second solution and that is defined by two membranes, and the cap is movable in translation between two extreme positions and includes a needle for coming to pierce the two membranes in one of the extreme positions.

Abstract: An apparatus for connection to a bottle to assist with pill ingestion includes a generally cylindrical hollow base portion manufactured from a first predetermined material and having a first predetermined size for insertion into a mouth of such bottle. A mechanism is disposed at a predetermined location on such base portion for sealingly engaging such base portion to an interior surface of such mouth of such bottle. A generally cylindrical hollow top portion is operably connected to such base portion closely adjacent an upper end of such base portion, such top portion is manufactured from a second predetermined material and has a second predetermined size and includes an open top end. A mesh material is fixedly disposed at a predetermined location within one of such base portion and such top portion for supporting at least one pill thereon.

Abstract: A method ensuring accurate oral dosage of a liquid medication includes providing an oral dosing apparatus with a medication, the volume of the oral dosing apparatus accurately sized to provide an effective oral dose of medication, and instructing a user to fill the oral dosing apparatus with the medication for dispensation, the oral dosing apparatus including a visual indicator regarding the amount to fill.

Abstract: The invention described herein relates to an oral transmucosal solid dosage form useful in treating nicotine addiction or as a nicotine substitute or replacement. By virtue of the formulation in combination with nicotine, the invention transmucosally delivers an effective amount of nicotine to the recipient while permitting the accomplishing of such, and manufacture of such, using a relatively small, convenient and orally comfortable dosage form (e.g., tablet) size.

Abstract: An animal restraining device and method provide dual capability for restraining an animal and administering medications. A first embodiment provides an administration tube connected to a body with handles which can be grasped by user to position the device either for restraining or administering medications. A second embodiment is a continuous hook-shaped member having a hollow passageway in order to introduce medications. The second embodiment is reversible to place either end of the device in the animal's mouth for restraining or administering medications, depending upon the size of the particular animal. The method of restraint includes positioning the device in the animal's mouth and applying a force to elicit a natural response by the animal which causes the animal to pause or remain motionless for a period of time while a caregiver may treat or examine the animal.

Abstract: An airway implant device for maintaining and/or creating an opening in air passageways is disclosed. Methods of using the device are also disclosed.

Abstract: A feeding apparatus that has particular utility for feeding infants, small children and adults that are at risk for choking on soft food includes a mesh enclosure that is open at a first end and closed at a second end. A mesh holder engages and holds open the first open end of the mesh enclosure and has an opening communicating with the interior of the mesh enclosure through which food may be inserted into the mesh enclosure. A closure mechanism is mounted to the mesh holder for movement between a first open position wherein the opening is uncovered and food may be inserted or removed from the mesh enclosure and a second closed position wherein the food is secured within the mesh enclosure. The closure mechanism advantageously remains engaged with the mesh holder in both the first and second positions.

Abstract: A patient hydration system comprises a bladder, a flexible tube, a safety guard, and a mouthpiece. The bladder can be a generally rectangular-shaped pouch designed to hold liquids. The bladder can have an attachment means whereby a retention member can be used to hang the bladder. The bladder has a port that allows the attachment of the flexible tube. The tube is also connected to the safety guard and mouthpiece. The contents of the bladder flow through the tube and out of the mouthpiece on demand. A keeper clip can be added in proximity to the mouthpiece. The safety guard provides a substantial handle for grasping and maneuvering the system, ensures that the mouthpiece is not inadvertently swallowed by the patient, and protects the mouthpiece from surface contamination if the mouthpiece is placed on a table, plate, etc.

Abstract: The present invention provides a nasal clip including two parts which are both injection molded. The first part, the base with a holster cavity for the second piece, the scent bar, which is impregnated with an aromatic substance such as essential oils, or aromatic medications. The purpose of the holster cavity is to keep the scent bar away from the skin, since the oils can irritate the skin if in direct contact. The base is fashioned in a way with various openings in order to emit as much aroma as possible. The scent bar is formed of a porous material, such as a poly-olefin plastic that undergoes a process of impregnation on saturation with the aromatic substance. The concentration of each type of aromatic substance will determine the length of time the scent bar will be soaked with may range from as little as a few hours to as much as a week. The nature of the poly-olefin plastic is to naturally absorb up to 30% of the aromatic substance.

Abstract: A delivery system includes a material delivery system, wherein the delivery system is adapted to dispense a flowable material. Also included is a cover adapted to at least partially cover the material delivery system, and a messaging system adapted to play a message upon activation thereof.

Abstract: A disposable article of manufacture, adapted for use by an infant to provide an analgesic effect, comprises: (a) a dispensing device having a container portion for holding an analgesic liquid and a contiguous nipple-shaped portion designed to be sucked by an infant, for pacifying the infant while at the same time dispensing and administering the analgesic liquid to the infant through at least one opening in the nipple-shaped portion; and (b) a dose of the analgesic liquid, in sterile form, disposed in the container portion and/or the nipple-shaped portion of the dispensing device, the dose having a having a volume in the range of 1 to 10 ml and the analgesic liquid consisting essentially of a water solution of sucrose and having a sucrose concentration in the range of 20 to 60% w/v and (c) a removable article for sealing the opening in the nipple-shaped portion and the dose of analgesic liquid, thereby to prevent entry of bacteria into the analgesic liquid and prevent discharge of the analgesic liquid when

Abstract: A disposable mouthwash container for use at a location such as a restaurant or preparatory to a meeting, for quick and easy rinsing of the user's mouth and to receive the used mouthwash back into the same container and be re-sealed for disposal. Each embodiment of the invention seals the mouthwash liquid in a reservoir in the container and has an easily openable top and spout providing access to the mouthwash, and a return opening for directing the used mouthwash back into the container, which is reclosable for disposal. A quick-release split ring connection is provided for mounting the container on a key ring for ready availability, and a reflective tape mirror is provided on some embodiments to facilitate inspection after use.

Abstract: An applicator system with a pressurized medium and a valve for dispensing the medium, characterized in that the sprayhead has a sprayhead body, which includes an escape channel that is connected with the valve, and an outlet orifice in which the outlet channel empties, and a mouthpiece element is provided, which sits on the sprayhead body, whereas the outlet orifice and the mouthpiece element are arranged relative to each other, in order to bring the outlet orifice to the mouth of a user and to actuate the valve by the mouthpiece element.

Abstract: The invention provides a container for preparing and/or administering a very small volume of active principles in liquid form, the container comprising a head (12) suitable for taking up a conservation, first position P1 in which said head (12) is in a distal position relative to the container, and an administration, second position P2 in which said head (12) is in a proximal position relative to the container, said head (12) including a cannula (14) with at least one flow channel (16), its length being adapted so that the free end of the flow channel (16) can enable delivery by sublingual and/or paragingival permeation, while the container is being held in the hand.

Abstract: An anesthetic dispensing device (100) particularly adapted to apply anesthetic agent to the oral cavity and upper tracheal area of a medical patient prior to intubation of such patient. An exemplary dispenser (100) includes a handle (110) operably connected to a retractor (112) that carries an anesthetic dispensing device (104). A currently preferred dispensing device (104) includes a fluid-dispersing nozzle (118) in fluid communication with a syringe (116). Sometimes, an optical device (164) is coupled to the dispenser (100) to permit direct visualization of the application of anesthetic agent.

Abstract: A device (10) for oral administration of medications that comes in the form of an elongated tubular body includes an element (12, 14) that can enable a liquid to enter or exit at each end, a nonreturn valve (16) at one of the two ends, and at least one substrate (18) that consists of at least one neutral substrate (20) and a soluble coating layer (22) that has a different coloring from that of the neutral substrate and that contains at least one active ingredient.

Abstract: An oral care implement with a handle includes a head with a releasable material (e.g., an oral medicament) and a tissue cleaner for cleaning the soft tissues and removing odor-causing bacteria from the mouth. In one arrangement, the releasable material is disposed on the surface of the tissue cleaner. In one arrangement, the releasable material is disposed behind the tissue cleaner. In one arrangement, the releasable material is incorporated in the composition of the tissue cleaner.

Abstract: Mouth adapter (1) for oral administration of a fluid mixture, comprising a generally elongate body (10) having a proximally disposed handle end (12) and a distally disposed outlet end (11); a lumen (15) provided in said body (10) adapted for receiving a syringe (2), said syringe (2) comprising a tip (24) extending from a distal end wall (23); and an outlet (16) in communication with said lumen (15) provided in said outlet end (11), wherein said outlet end (11) has a rounded, smooth and substantially rigid outer surface (50), the mouth adapter (1) being provided with stop means (40, 41, 42, 43) for preventing said tip (24) from extending from the exterior surface of the outlet end (11).

Abstract: An oral appliance for administering a stimulus, such as a substance, to the mouth of a user includes a flexible tube having an inlet portion, a first curved portion forming an ear loop connected to the inlet portion, a second curved portion forming a lip bend connected to the first curved portion, and an outlet portion extending from the second curved portion. Alternatively, a mouthpiece for delivering a substance to the mouth of a user includes a housing having an inlet portion, a riser portion extending upwardly from the inlet portion and a curved outlet portion. A flexible tube is coupled to the housing. A method of delivering a substance to a predetermined location in a user's mouth includes disposing a flexible tube between a row of teeth and an interior surface of a cheek. The flexible tube has an exit port positioned in a rear portion of the user's mouth.

Abstract: A dose dispensing device such as a medicine dropper is improved by putting a dosing scale such as a body weight scale directly on the dose dispensing device. This improved device is used to simultaneously calculate and measure an exact dose of liquid medication, based on the body weight of the patient.

Abstract: A bottle for dispensing oral medication has a concavity in its side wall for partially receiving the cylindrical cross section of an oral medication syringe, and also has a syringe holder integrally formed with the bottle for retaining the syringe in the concavity, thereby to keep the syringe assembled to the bottle and readily available for dispensing the medication in the bottle. The concavity and the syringe holder may take different forms, including clip arms and holder sleeves integral with the bottle. The bottle and syringe make a compact assembly for convenient packaging, storage and handling.