Abstract: The present invention is method for switching a power supply associated with an instrumented medication package, such that energy contained in the power supply can be preserved until the instrumented medication package is dispensed to a patient. The switch may be formed by providing an exposed discontinuity on a trace forming a conductive path between the power supply and circuitry associated with the instrumented medication package. Bridging the discontinuity, such as by placing a conductive element across the discontinuity, allows the power supply to be conductively connected to the circuitry, such that the circuitry can perform its desired function.

Abstract: The present invention relates to assisting patients in the taking of medication, and to assisting third parties in accumulating information regarding patient medication intake. The invention may be embodied a system including a portable medication monitor used in association with an instrumented medication package to provide intake data acquisition and patient support functions. The system may further be connected to a computer or computer network allowing information distribution between the medication monitor and third parties, such as physicians or pharmacists.

Abstract: A system for managing delivery of medication is formed of a blister package that includes a plurality of cells wherein each cell is sealed by a breakable wall and holds a unit-dose of medication. A user gains access to the medication by puncturing the breakable wall. A severable conductor is positioned proximate to each breakable wall and ruptures upon puncturing. A monitoring circuit senses the puncturing of each of the severable conductors. An RF transmitter sends information corresponding to usage of each medication stored in the blister package to a remote information transceiver. The package may also be provided with environmental monitoring sensors to allow analytical determinations of medication expiration. The package may furthermore be provided with a power supply which conforms to the back side of the package and an antenna formed by a printing a conductive element on the back side of the package.