Abstract: A device for dispensing pills includes a set of pill canisters, each having a machine-readable canister identifier. The device for dispensing pills further includes a reader adapted to read the machine-readable canister identifier and a selector interfaced to the reader. An active pill canister from the plurality of pill canisters is selected by the selector using data from the reader to determine which of the plurality of pill canisters is at a target location. A control is provided for releasing a desired quantity of pills from the selected pill canister at a target location into a target package.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for dispensing sheet material from a roll which include a low-material sensing system. The low-material sensing system provides an indication when the sheet material approaches depletion or is depleted so that the depleted sheet material roll can be replaced with a full roll. The low-material sensing system determines that the sheet material is depleted or near depletion by comparing the rotational speed of a sheet material roll from which the sheet material is unwound with the speed of the motor which produces movement of the sheet material roll when power is supplied to the motor. The sheet material roll speed increases as material is unwound while the motor speed remains relatively constant. A low-material indication is provided when the comparison reaches a threshold representative of the low-material state.

Abstract: An integrated medication management and compliance system for enabling a care provider to remotely manage and deliver individual doses of therapeutic products to a patient, in a non-sequential fashion. The system includes delivery apparatus remotely located from the care provider, wherein the apparatus stores a plurality of sealed unit dose packages that are delivered to a patient at a scheduled dosing time. The delivery apparatus is coupled to a control facility and to a computer terminal of the care provider by way of a secure communications network. The system enables the patient's medication regimen to be remotely tailored in real-time to accommodate fluid medical conditions.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a partition plate capable of efficiently cleaning a medicine remaining in a V-measure. The partition plate comprises: a slide member (8) which is installed so as to be capable of reciprocating along side plates and has a guide reception part (11); and a partition member (9) which has a guide part (18) removably guided by the guide reception part (11) of the slide member (8) and reciprocates together with the slide member (8) while maintaining such a state so as to be parallel with an end plate (5).

Abstract: A self-contained, fully automated system for dispensing medicants into vials. Prescriptions are entered using a built-in workstation. Vials of several sizes are each contained in preloaded cassettes. Upon command from a computer, a vial is released and labeled with the prescription information. A robotic system moves the labeled vial to the output chute of one of many automated dispensing units that has previously been commanded to count a predetermined number of tablets, pills, or capsules. The filled vial is robotically moved to an optional capping station where a cap is applied if needed. The vial is then moved to an output region where it is sorted with other prescriptions for a customer. The prescription may be checked using the built-in computer workstation. Optionally, the automated dispensing system may be linked to pharmacy control software.

Abstract: A device for dispensing pills includes a set of pill canisters and a control for releasing a desired quantity of pills from a selected pill canister at a target location. A frame is situated beneath the target location. The frame is adapted to accept and hold a selected platen of a set of platens and to move the selected platen in both an X axis and a Y axis. The selected platen holds and supports a target container into which the desired quantity of pills is deposited.

Abstract: A management apparatus, a charging object apparatus and a management system and method by which a product of an object of use can be used in an efficiency as high as possible when it is used commonly by a plurality of people.

Abstract: This invention focuses on resolving outstanding problems of pharmaceutical dispensing systems. A need for dispensing of both medicaments and pre-packed medications has been addressed. This invention comprises an accurate counting system for multiple concurrently dispensed medicaments. Accurate, high speed medicament dispensing with little or no jam ups is achieved. Self recovery is provided to prevent medicament over counts. Machine self learn modes replace manual intervention by pharmacy personnel. Concurrent multi-tasking is provided and a quick action robotic arm further expedites the dispensing process. A touch screen computer is provided for coordinating the individual modules and overall control. The apparatus covers internal security and restricts access to unauthorized persons.

Abstract: A medicine supply apparatus for filling medicines into containers has a plurality of reception compartments into which each of a plurality of medicines are to be respectively selectively fed by a user based on prescription data stored in a processor, a discharge apparatus for discharging the medicines from each of the reception compartments, and filling apparatus for filling the medicines discharged from the reception compartments into containers. An LED lamp is identifiably related to each of the plurality of reception compartments to indicate the reception compartment into which a particular medicine is to be fed based on the prescription data and a control device controls the discharge apparatus to discharge the medicine from the reception compartment and the filling apparatus.

Abstract: An integrated medication management and compliance system for enabling a care provider to remotely manage and deliver individual doses of therapeutic products to a patient, in a non-sequential fashion. The system includes delivery apparatus remotely located from the care provider, wherein the apparatus stores a plurality of sealed unit dose packages that are delivered to a patient at a scheduled dosing time. The delivery apparatus is coupled to a control facility and to a computer terminal of the care provider by way of a secure communications network. The system enables the patient's medication regimen to be remotely tailored in real-time to accommodate fluid medical conditions.

Abstract: This invention is a fault tolerant computer controlled automatic medication dispenser with a unique dispensing system. This dispensing system enables a large number of detachable medication filled dispensing wheels to be vertically stacked and held in a fixed position; and then be automatically dispensed one dispensing wheel. The patient's medication can be dispensed for a few days, weeks, and or many months without a refill. These medication filled dispensing wheels are stored and held in a fixed position within the dispenser.

Abstract: An automated supplies cabinet dispenses supply items that are stored in a rack of drawers within a locking cabinet. A robotic transfer mechanism fetches the drawer containing the desired supply items, and brings it to an access portal at the front of the cabinet. A sliding door opens automatically to provide access. The supply articles can be RFID tagged and an RFID reader provides for automatic inventory updating when the articles are taken. The racks can take the form of carts that wheel into place in the cabinet. A light curtain disposed at the access portal can block movement of the door and of the transfer mechanism if it detects a hand reaching in. The cabinet provides an audit trail and facilitates inventory control and patient billing.

Abstract: A medicament dispensing cabinet is comprised of a frame, at least one controller, and a plurality of drawers each movably carried by the frame and each defining a plurality of dispensing cells. A plurality of removable dispensing devices is provided with each one carried by one of the dispensing cells. Each of the dispensing cells further comprises a motor for providing rotary motion to one of the removable dispensing devices in response to the controller, a sensor operating in conjunction with the controller for counting medicament dispensed from one of the removable dispensing devices, a chute for receiving medicament dispensed from one of the removable dispensing devices and a chute gate for controlling access to the chute. The cabinet may additionally comprise a chute gate release responsive to the controller for controlling the chute gate and a chute gate sensor connected to the controller and responsive to the position of the chute gate.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a vending system wherein a monitoring system verifies that a product ordered by a vending customer is actually delivered through a delivery area to the customer. If the product ordered is unavailable either because of an out of stock situation or a blockage of the deliver path for that product, the present invention allows the customer to request a refund or order a second product. Additionally, the present invention helps to prevent theft of product from the vending system.

Abstract: A device is provided for insertion into a drinking vessel to prevent accidental or deliberate contamination of the contents of the vessel, the device may be inserted on the drink production line or at the point of sale of the drink, in either embodiment the vessel is provided to the consumer with the device in place.

Abstract: The medication apparatus includes a mobile housing assembly and a plurality of tray members supported therein for rotation on a central mounting assembly. A lockable access door is present in the housing assembly for controlled access to the trays. A tray locking assembly locks and unlocks the trays individually in a plurality of angular positions so that each of the compartments on a particular tray member can be presented before the door. A drive assembly selectively engages and rotates each tray individually when the tray is unlocked. A control system, including a stored program, identifies a compartment associated with a particular patient or associated with particular medications, unlocks the tray associated with the desired compartment, and rotates the tray to present the compartment before the access door, which is then unlocked and openable.

Abstract: An inventory control and prescription management and dispensing system including a dispensing vault for storing and dispensing prescriptions in communication with a central computer system which communicates with prescription providers, insurance companies and other third parties. The vault includes robotic means for dispensing pre-filled prescriptions with the aid of RFIDs, barcodes or other means for verifying the medication to be dispensed. The vault uses patient biometrics, a patient registration system, insurance information and doctor information to process the transaction and dispense a specifically labeled pre-filled prescription to the patient.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a medication dispenser having a refrigerated compartment and a plurality of access doors that provide access to a limited portion of the refrigerated compartment. A plurality of turntables are rotatably disposed within the refrigerated compartment. The turntables receive at least one medication in a predetermined location, and each turntable aligns with an access door. The dispenser further includes a computer system that receives input selecting a first medication to be dispensed and outputs a first signal in response to the input. A controller is operably coupled to the refrigerated compartment and receives the first signal from the computer system. The controller outputs a second signal to rotate a turntable such that the first medication is positioned adjacent an access door, and the controller outputs a third signal to unlock the adjacent access door.

Abstract: A beverage vending machine installation comprising a cabinet and a trolley unit, the cabinet defining a void in which, in use, the trolley unit can be positioned. The cabinet has an opening and at least one door moveable between open and closed positions. A trolley unit comprises at least one beverage vending machine. The trolley unit is moveable relative to the cabinet between an installed position and an uninstalled position. In the installed position the trolley unit is positioned within the void of the cabinet such that at least one door may be closed to allow operation of the vending machine installation. In the uninstalled position, the trolley unit is removed from the cabinet after opening at least one door to allow access to the trolley unit.

Abstract: A device for dispensing pills includes a set of pill canisters and a control for releasing a desired quantity of pills from a selected pill canister at a target location. A frame is situated beneath the target location. The frame is adapted to accept and hold a selected platen of a set of platens and to move the selected platen in both an X axis and a Y axis. The selected platen holds and supports a target container into which the desired quantity of pills is deposited.

Abstract: A system and method for storing items and tracking usage of items in a user configurable medication dispensing cabinet is disclosed. Items are stored in a tray or drawer having user-adjustable storage spaces. A graphical user interface comprising a touch screen enables users to rapidly customize the layout of storage spaces, which allows a wide variety of shapes and sizes of items to be stored in the tray. A kit of items that are identified in advance may be removed more efficiently by ordering removal based on the location of the storage spaces in which the items are stored. Items not identified in advance may be removed and tracked more efficiently through the use of the graphical user interface or a scanner for reading machine-readable identification tags on the items or the storage spaces. Bar codes and RFID devices are contemplated for use as identification tags.

Abstract: The system for controlling and tracking medical items (830) includes a plurality of medical item storage cabinets (878). Each cabinet includes a plurality of doors (888-894). The doors control access to shelves (902, 904) and support modules (1210). Shelves and support modules include user interfaces (938, 1214). Authorized users desiring to take medical items from storage locations in cabinets for use in treating patients are enabled to provide inputs through a display terminal (880) adjacent to cabinets and/or interfaces to indicate the taking of medical items. Storage cabinets include visual indicators so that users may be guided to find a selected medical item for which information is input at an associated display terminal. Alternatively, authorized users gain access to the interior of the cabinet and indicate through appropriate inputs through interfaces on the shelves the types and quantities of items being taken.

Abstract: A method of dispensing medicaments may employ a drug dispensing device comprised of an upper hopper having an upper opening for receiving a medicament and a lower opening. The drug dispensing device also includes a lower hopper having an upper opening and a lower opening in a bottom portion thereof. The upper hopper defines a bulk storage chamber and the lower hopper defines a dispensing chamber. A rotatable dispensing disc is positioned in a lower portion of the dispensing chamber for dispensing medicament from the drug dispensing device through the lower opening in the lower hopper. A regulator is situated between the bulk storage chamber and the dispensing chamber for controlling the rate at which medicament moves from the storage chamber to the dispensing chamber.

Abstract: An apparatus for counting pharmaceutical units is provided having a supporting deck assembly, a hopper, a cylindrical chamber and a transport ring positioned between the hopper and the cylindrical chamber, wherein the hopper has a tilted floor, which can be shaken or vibrated to discharge the units on to a transport ring, and the transport ring is sloped downward from its inner to outer perimeter, which brings the units into contact with the undulating surface of the walls of the cylindrical chamber to promote singulation prior to counting.

Abstract: A candy vending machine that manufactures candy tablets from candy powder by a process that is visible to a customer. A feed tube is filled with candy powders of different flavors and colors from candy powder containers by the action of motorized augers. A tableting machine receives candy powder from the feed tube to compress the candy powder into candy tablets. One or more flavor selection buttons signal a computer system to activate the candy powder containers to transfer the candy powder to the feed tube, to deliver the candy powder from the feed tube to the tableting machine, and to deliver the candy tablets to a tablet chute. The tablet chute delivers the candy tablets to a candy tablet container provided to a customer. Sensing mechanisms determine the presence of the candy powder in the candy powder containers and in the feed tube.

Abstract: An apparatus for storing and dispensing of a plurality of items of stock (34) such as pharmaceuticals comprises a plurality of storage regions (20), e.g. shelves (26) and a dispensing station (48). The storage regions (20) are arranged to circulate around a continuous path (10) such that each storage region (20) is periodically brought into alignment with the dispensing station (48) so as to allow items to be removed from the storage region (20) at the dispensing station (48).

Abstract: An oxygen vending machine receives payment from a user. The payment is validated for appropriateness and sufficiency. If a valid payment is made, then concentrated oxygen is provided to a nipple or coupling located in an accessible place. In addition, a packaged breathing device, such as a nasal cannula, is dispensed. The user retrieves the packaged nasal device and uses it to direct the concentrated oxygen from the nipple into the user's nose or mouth. The user may select the particular breathing device which is to be dispensed. The flow of concentrated oxygen to the nipple is ceased after a predetermined period of time has passed.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are described for ensuring that blood transfused into a patient is the correct blood for that patient, and that a complete audit trail is created that will allow later tracing of blood from donation through to transfusion.

Abstract: Automatic flower-selling equipment comprises a housing including a casing having a selecting partial unit situated thereon and defining a storage space suitable for storing and protecting flowers, a bearing unit situated in the storage space for displaying flowers, a moving unit connected to the bearing unit, and a control unit connected to the moving unit. The control unit is connected to the selecting partial unit, and the bearing unit has a supporting column rotatably attached to the housing and supporting structures attached at different vertical positions to the supporting column. The supporting structures have a supporting tray suitable for supporting flowers and several separating sheets dividing the supporting trays into parts, and at least one delivery door each delivery door being connected to a delivery outlet for removing chosen flowers.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention relates to an assembly comprising a plurality of bins with a plurality of lids associated therewith. Each of the bins has a lock assembly that includes a catch operable to lock the lid in its closed position and a mechanical indicator responsive to the catch. Another aspect of the invention relates to an automated dispensing cabinet that includes a control computer and a plurality of drawers having a plurality of row assemblies therein. Each row assembly has bins that include a tabbed lid, a lock assembly with a catch operable to engage and disengage the tab, and an indicator responsive to the lock assembly. Methods for dispensing from and restocking the remote dispensing systems are also given, as well as a method for indicating which item is to be dispensed from one of a plurality of bins.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an automated system for pharmaceutical singulation, counting and dispensing, whereby a bulk of stored pharmaceutical units are singulated into a single file line for counting and dispensing. With reference to the drawings, the pharmaceutical singulation, counting and dispensing system comprises generally, a deck assembly (A), a cylindrical chamber (B), a rotatable transport ring (C), a plurality of adjustable fingers (D), an adjustable reciprocating member (E), an adjustable rotatable member (F), a counting system (G), a hopper (H), and a control system (I).

Abstract: Disclosed is an information input device for a tablet automatic packing machine capable of easily and directly storing tablet information in a memory chip and updating/reading the tablet information in/from the memory chip at a user side.

Abstract: A system is described for managing data and information in a healthcare environment, such as a hospital. A handheld code scanner reads codes and either accepts data, or performs instructions based on the read code. The code scanner wirelessly transmits the codes or data to a central server which acts on the read code to carry out necessary functions. The system is useful for tracking patient data, such as for delivery of medicine. In addition, since the system can carry out instructions, it is useful for allowing healthcare workers to quickly and conveniently perform their duties without the necessity of sitting at a computer terminal.

Abstract: Disclosed is an information input device for a tablet automatic packing machine capable of easily and directly storing tablet information in a memory chip and updating/reading the tablet information in/from the memory chip at a user side. The information input device includes a plurality of cassette supporters each of which has a first connector on the upper surface thereof and a memory chip mounted and electrically connected on and to the first connector.

Abstract: A system for dispensing pill- or capsule-form medications (61) in desired doses (60). The system comprises a dispensing device (35), which includes a cartridge (20, 40) rotatable relative to a housing or frame (10) and provided with discrete dosage compartments (27, 47) for desired doses of medication. The cartridge (20, 40) is manipulated by elements (18, 18a, 18b; 14a, 14b, 15, 18, 19), whereby each separate dosage compartment (27, 47) is rotatable relative to the housing or frame (10) to a dispensing point (4, 12) for the dose of medication (60). A signalling device (75, 76) producing a sound and/or light signal activates at pre-programmed times. An electronics unit (19, 55) containing a dispensing program is reprogrammable by means of an external programming device (36, 66, 101, 102).

Abstract: A shelf system with computer-controlled compartment displays, whereby the displays indicate a number of articles to picked out of the compartment. The shelf system has a plurality of sliding shelves in that the shelves have at least one display element in their frontal area for order picking data. The shelf system is configured in such a way that a data exchange between the display elements and the control computer can take place irrespective of the relative position of the shelf vis-à-vis the other components of the shelf system.

Abstract: Disclosed is an information input device for a tablet automatic packing machine capable of easily and directly storing tablet information in a memory chip and updating/reading the tablet information in/from the memory chip at a user side.

Abstract: A prescription drug storage and dispensing arrangement allows prescriptions stored, as they are filled, in a cabinet for customer pickup. The prescriptions are placed into receptacles such as pharmacy envelopes and placed on carriers, e.g., hanger bars, that are transported on a conveyor within the cabinet. The conveyor brings one carrier at a time to an access opening for loading or retrieving of a pharmacy envelope. In one embodiment the hanger bars are rods with spaced annular recesses defining bag positions. Scissors-action arms may be used to suspend the hanger rods from the conveyor webs. The identity of each pharmacy envelope and the location of the respective bar on said conveyor and the bag position are stored in a computer, with information identifying the customer order. When the customer arrives to pick up the prescription, the customer data is entered and the conveyor automatically moves to position the respective hanger bar at the access opening.

Abstract: A carousel used in a restocking system is comprised of a drive track. A plurality of bins are arranged into rows, with the rows being driven by said drive track. A drive mechanism, e.g. an electric motor, drives the drive track. A sensor is provided to sense the position of the rows of bins. A processor is responsive to the sensor and data representative of a plurality of picks for more than one order for controlling the drive mechanism. By combining picks from different orders into a batch, the time spent driving the rows and time between picks is minimized. The carousel may be divided into a plurality of columns, each with its own drive track, drive mechanism, and sensor, to enable several rows to be brought into a pick position simultaneously. Various methods and forms of restocking packages are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and system for the efficient bulk package delivery for recipients. Items ordered by different customers from different retailers, suppliers or manufacturers can be organized by common item identifiers and shipped in bulk from retailers or manufacturers, to an origination regional distribution center. The items can be sorted at the origination regional distribution center in bulk based on the location of destination regional distribution centers that can serve destination centralized pickup locations chosen by the customers placing the orders for those items. Ordered items can be sorted by recipient and the destination centralized pickup location specified in the customer's order and packed into recipient-specific packages at the destination regional distribution center.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for verification of the identity of a patient undergoing treatment administered by a medical treatment practitioner in a treatment room. An identifying element such as patient chart or patient photograph is provided for the patient which includes a patient identifier, e.g., a barcode, capable of being read by a reader device located within the treatment room. In use, the patient identifier is read by the reader device in the treatment room and a characteristic audio signal, previously assigned to the patient and known to the patient, is generated in response to the reading of the identifying element when there is a match between the patient identifier and a stored identifier for the patient. Treatment of the patient is at least temporarily withheld if any audio signal generated in response to reading of the patient identifier by the reader device is not the characteristic audio signal assigned to the patient. A special patient chart with a removable identifier can be used.

Abstract: A carousel used in a restocking system is comprised of a drive track. A plurality of bins are arranged into rows, with the rows being driven by said drive track. A drive mechanism, e.g. an electric motor, drives the drive track. A sensor is provided to sense the position of the rows of bins. A processor is responsive to the sensor and data representative of a plurality of picks for more than one order for controlling the drive mechanism. By combining picks from different orders into a batch, the time spent driving the rows and time between picks is minimized. The carousel may be divided into a plurality of columns, each with its own drive track, drive mechanism, and sensor, to enable several rows to be brought into a pick position simultaneously.

Abstract: A carousel used in a restocking system is comprised of a drive track. A plurality of bins are arranged into rows, with the rows being driven by said drive track. A drive mechanism, e.g. an electric motor, drives the drive track. A sensor is provided to sense the position of the rows of bins. A processor is responsive to the sensor and data representative of a plurality of picks for more than one order for controlling the drive mechanism. By combining picks from different orders into a batch, the time spent driving the rows and time between picks is minimized. The carousel may be divided into a plurality of columns, each with its own drive track, drive mechanism, and sensor, to enable several rows to be brought into a pick position simultaneously. Various methods and forms of restocking packages are also disclosed.

Abstract: A carousel used in a restocking system is comprised of a drive track. A plurality of bins are arranged into rows, with the rows being driven by said drive track. A drive mechanism, e.g. an electric motor, drives the drive track. A sensor is provided to sense the position of the rows of bins. A processor is responsive to the sensor and data representative of a plurality of picks for more than one order for controlling the drive mechanism. By combining picks from different orders into a batch, the time spent driving the rows and time between picks is minimized. The carousel may be divided into a plurality of columns, each with its own drive track, drive mechanism, and sensor, to enable several rows to be brought into a pick position simultaneously. Various methods and forms of restocking packages are also disclosed.

Abstract: A carousel used in a restocking system is comprised of a drive track. A plurality of bins are arranged into rows, with the rows being driven by said drive track. A drive mechanism, e.g. an electric motor, drives the drive track. A sensor is provided to sense the position of the rows of bins. A processor is responsive to the sensor and data representative of a plurality of picks for more than one order for controlling the drive mechanism. By combining picks from different orders into a batch, the time spent driving the rows and time between picks is minimized. The carousel may be divided into a plurality of columns, each with its own drive track, drive mechanism, and sensor, to enable several rows to be brought into a pick position simultaneously. Various methods and forms of restocking packages are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for dispensing pill- or capsule-form medications (61) in desired doses (60). The system comprises a dispensing device (35), which includes a cartridge (20, 40) rotatable relative to a housing or frame (10) and provided with discrete dosage compartments (27, 47) for desired doses of medication. The cartridge (20, 40) is manipulated by elements (18, 18a, 18b; 14a, 14b, 15, 18, 19), whereby each separate dosage compartment (27, 47) is rotatable relative to the housing or frame (10) to a dispensing point (4, 12) for the dose of medication (60). A signalling device (75, 76) producing a sound and/or light signal activates at pre-programmed times. An electronics unit (19, 55) containing a dispensing program is reprogrammable by means of an external programming device (36, 66, 101, 102).

Abstract: A novel concept is applied to the conventional vending machines in order to enhance the serviceability of the vending machines dramatically. The item-selector comprising a keypad or the like is made moveable so that it can ‘walk with customer’ as the customer walks up and down the vending machine in an effort to determine a right item for him. In this way, the customer does not have to walk between the item he wants to buy and the item-selector. Also, by making the moveable item-selector accompanied by a video camera, preferably with two-way communication capability, personal attention and service by an attendant located in a remote office becomes possible.

Abstract: A medication dispensing cart has a pull-out drawer, and a conveyor that transports a number of removable medication bins within the cart, one at a time, to the position of the drawer. An on-board processor controls operation of the bin conveyor mechanism whose pathway can be a serpentine (folded) loop. The drawer slide engages the bin located at the drawer position, and the bin can be pulled forward from said conveyor and pushed back onto the conveyor. The bins can be lifted out when the drawer is opened. A 2-D bar code symbol or other machine-readable code, positioned on the bin, contains data identifying the contents of the bin and the associated patient. A reader device reads the coded symbol and transfers data for that bin to an on-board processor. The processor keeps track of the bins on the conveyor, as well as their contents. Pusher arms on the drawer assist in pushing the bin out when the drawer is opened and in returning the bin onto its carrier when the drawer is closed.

Abstract: A storage system for receiving, delivering and storing items, e.g. mail items, to be distributed. Items are stored in a flexible manner allowing sufficient space to be allocated to each item while ensuring that the total available space is utilised in an optimal manner. Items may be carried on trays. The size of the items is determined in order to allocate the correct amount of space. Items may be repositioned during non-operational periods in order to reduce time consumed during delivery of items from the system. Further, methods for receiving and delivering items to/from the system. A payment system is provided.

Abstract: A system for dispensing pill- or capsule-form medications (61) in desired doses (60). The system comprises a dispensing device (35), which includes a cartridge (20, 40) rotatable relative to a housing or frame (10) and provided with discrete dosage compartments (27, 47) for desired doses of medication. The cartridge (20, 40) is manipulated by elements (18, 18a, 18b; 14a, 14b, 15, 18, 19), whereby each separate dosage compartment (27, 47) is rotatable relative to the housing or frame (10) to a dispensing point (4, 12) for the dose of medication (60). A signalling device (75, 76) producing a sound and/or light signal activates at pre-programmed times. An electronics unit (19, 55) containing a dispensing program is reprogrammable by means of an external programming device (36, 66, 101, 102).