abstract |
The apparatus for automatic administration and dosing of one or more drugs comprises a microdelivery device which may be implanted in or otherwise administered to an animal or human. The microdelivery device is configured to have at least one compartment containing at least one drug so that a plurality of doses of the drug(s) are held within the device. In accordance with the present invention, the microdelivery device selectively actuates a compartment to selectively release doses of the drug(s) to provide an efficacious dosing pattern. The microdelivery device employs a microprocessor, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), preprogrammed with a desired dosing regimen and a timing circuit, such as a quartz oscillator, in order to administer the drug(s) according to the dosing regimen. Thus, the microdelivery device is programmable to effectuate the release of the drug(s) at a desired time to maintain efficacious levels of the drug while minimizing the amount of drug which must be used. |