What is a Medication Dispenser?

Sometimes ill health can lead to having an extensive list of prescriptions which may need tasking several times a day, all at different times. Imagine then, these additional medicines have to be taken only on certain days. This can become very confusing and potentially quite dangerous with the possibility of causing accidental overdose or problems with keeping the necessary medication regime.

Fortunately, with the help of a medicine dispenser, these problems can be overcome and medicines can be taken more safely.

What Is A Medication Dispenser?

These devices are loosely based on the old principle of pill boxes. They can be found in a variety of shops and chemists or may even be supplied by your healthcare provider.They are most often made out of plastic and are divided into sections.These sections are normally comprised of seven columns and at least four rows, though individual strips for daily use are also available.They come with a sliding lid or individual flip-up lids for ease of use.

The sections are ergonomically designed with the sections being large enough for adults to retrieve the drugs efficiently.Each person will have their own preference as to which type of lid is preferable to them, and some manufacturers even print names of the days and times on them for added ease of use.

How Do They Work?

When the person has received all of their medications, they, or with help, can place each day's drugs into the correct compartment as necessary and as by guidance on the packet or bottle. For example the first section may represent monday at 7am working down the column until monday evening. The next row will contain all of tuesday's medicines and so on.

They hold a multitude of benefits in their design such as saving time and thought by allowing the person to spend just one session a week organising their medicine regime. They prevent the person having to hold and open bottles, jars and packets, something that many patients find difficult with certain illnesses and disabilities.

They are easier to take on holiday and to transport if going out for the day, and if carers are ever needed, they can administer medicines more safely without having to worry about examining time schedules or special orders, something that may sometimes be hurried if the carer has strict time constraints.

What About Children's Dispensers?

Liquid medications can also be administered safely as companies have now started manufacturing devices specifically for this cause. One such item can be found especially for babies whereby the medicine is stored in a compartment and delivered through a teat attached to a dummy. This allows for the correct dose to be more accurately given as there is none wasted or spilled, ensuring the medicine is given correctly and safely.

Other devices include using pipettes with measuring scale, ensuring accurate dose and many now come with specially designed droppers to prevent choking hazards.

Medicine dispensers are designed to help people organise and plan their drug regimes safely. They are generally well received and save time, effort and accidents from occurring.