Bloomberg Business Week (02/17/12) Lopatto, Elizabeth
A study published online by Science Translational Medicine detailed the successful first trial of an implantable, remote-controlled microchip for injectable drug delivery. The MicroCHIPS Inc. device was implanted in seven women between the ages of 65 and 70 during a 30-minute doctor's visit, and contained 20 doses of the generic version of Eli Lily & Co's Forteo osteoporosis drug. The device did not make the patients uncomfortable, not did it have any adverse affects. MicroCHIPS is working to develop implants that could hold hundreds of doses, which would allow them so stay in the patients for longer than the four month period that the tested device was able to provide dosing. Designed to be more accurate, convenient, and to improve patient compliance, the device will benefit those with ailments requiring frequent drug injections, including cancer and multiple sclerosis.

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