Adhering to medication schedules is crucial for effective treatment, particularly for serious ailments such as diabetes, HIV, or cancer. However, research indicates that nearly 50% of individuals with chronic conditions fail to follow their prescribed medication regimens. In the United States, this lack of adherence is associated with around 125,000 fatalities each year. To combat this issue, a team of researchers at MIT has introduced a groundbreaking device known as SAFARI. This intelligent capsule is equipped with a miniature antenna and an RFID chip. The capsule's exterior is coated with cellulose infused with tiny metal particles that prevent radio signals from being transmitted prior to ingestion. Once the patient consumes the capsule, the coating dissolves in the stomach, allowing the medication to be released, the signal-blocking layer to vanish, and an external receiver to detect a signal that verifies the dosage was consumed. Subsequently, the antenna disintegrates, and the small RFID chip naturally exits the body. This innovative system can send alerts for any missed doses and transmit adherence information to healthcare providers. The smart capsule has undergone testing on pigs, with upcoming human trials aimed at ensuring that the materials used do not accumulate in the body over prolonged periods. Researchers are also working on increasing production efficiency, as the current cost of the capsules remains high.
Informational material. 18+.
