Khaberni - MIT researchers have developed electronic capsules (called devices or safari capsules) that wirelessly confirm the swallowing of medicines, then dissolve within a week in the stomach.
Unlike current electronic monitoring devices, these biodegradable pills leave no permanent components in the body that could accumulate over time.
Experiments conducted on animals (pigs) have shown that these devices send reliable wireless signals after being swallowed, and safely dissolve without causing the accumulation of harmful chemical materials.
According to "Study Finds", the smart pills are still years away from becoming available to patients, as this technology requires extensive clinical trials on humans and regulatory approval before they can help doctors monitor patients' adherence to their prescribed medications.
How do Safari pills work?
These biodegradable capsules use radio frequency identification technology to send a signal when swallowed, designed to avoid leaving any permanent foreign materials.
A Safari capsule resembles a regular pill, but contains advanced electronics that operate in a precise sequence.
Once swallowed, the capsule remains electronically silent, hidden under a special layer made of cellulose and metal particles that block radio signals.
As the capsule passes through the digestive system, stomach acid begins to dissolve this protective layer. Once the layer disappears - typically within hours - the device "wakes up" and begins to send radio frequency signals at 915 MHz.
External reading devices can detect these signals, confirming the medication has indeed been swallowed. The electronics themselves are made of zinc antennas and other biodegradable components.
Within 7 days, tests conducted in both simulated stomach environments and real gastric conditions showed the dissolution of the components.
Benefits of Safari pills
Healthcare providers can obtain confirmation of medication intake according to the prescription, which may allow for more responsive care adjustments.
Family members caring for patients can also gain additional information about their elderly relatives' adherence to their medications without the need for surgical monitoring methods.
