Apparatuses and method for injecting medicaments
Inventors
Assignees
Action Medical Technologies LLC
Publication Number
US-11135371-B2
Publication Date
2021-10-05
Expiration Date
2037-12-18
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Abstract
An injector for delivering a medicament includes an outer sleeve, an inner sleeve, and a syringe. The inner sleeve is disposed partially within the outer sleeve. A plunger rod of the syringe is engaged with the outer sleeve in a fixed spatial relationship such that the plunger rod and the outer sleeve translate as a unit. The outer sleeve is configured for axial translation relative to the inner sleeve from a first configuration wherein the inner sleeve extends from the outer sleeve a first distance to a second configuration in which the inner sleeve extends from the outer sleeve a second distance that is less than the first distance. Further, in a third configuration the inner sleeve extends from the outer sleeve a third distance that is greater than the second distance and the inner sleeve is restricted from axially translating with respect to the outer sleeve.
Core Innovation
The invention is an injector for delivering a medicament, which includes an outer sleeve, an inner sleeve, and a syringe. The outer sleeve defines a longitudinal axis, and the inner sleeve is partially disposed within the outer sleeve. The syringe comprises a barrel, a needle mounted to the distal end of the barrel, a plunger rod, and a seal slidably mounted in the barrel. The plunger rod is fixed in spatial relationship with the outer sleeve so that both move as a unit. The injector features an outer sleeve configured for axial translation relative to the inner sleeve among multiple configurations: a first, where the inner sleeve extends a first distance; a second, where it extends a lesser second distance; and a third configuration where the inner sleeve extends a third distance, greater than the second, and is restricted from axial translation.
The problem addressed is that current medicament injectors, including auto-injectors, generally comprise a high number of complex parts, leading to assembly difficulties, increased costs for users, and higher risk of device failure. Existing devices may use powerful springs, potentially causing issues in storage and operation, and often fail to provide adequate shielding of the needle before and after use, creating concerns for needle-stick injuries and for patients with needle phobia.
This invention provides a simplified injector design that uses fewer parts and includes a biasing member with lower stiffness to reduce cost and stress on components. The injector can transition between configurations to insert the needle into tissue and automatically shield it after use. Additional embodiments enable alternative modes of medicament delivery, such as intranasal spray via an attachable spray nozzle or connection to an infusion device through a luer connector. The device is designed for reliable use after extended storage periods and features mechanisms to lock and shield the needle post-injection, enhancing safety and usability.
Claims Coverage
There are three primary inventive features derived from the independent claims in this patent.
Injector with outer and inner sleeves, syringe, and biasing member for axial translation
An injector comprises: - An outer sleeve defining a longitudinal axis - An inner sleeve disposed partially within the outer sleeve - A syringe having a barrel, a needle mounted on the distal end, a plunger rod, and a seal - A biasing member positioned within the outer sleeve The plunger rod is engaged with both the proximal end of the biasing member and the outer sleeve such that they translate as a unit throughout injector operation. The outer sleeve is configured to translate axially relative to the inner sleeve between three configurations, distinguished by the extension distance of the inner sleeve from the outer sleeve, with restricted axial movement in the third configuration.
Spray nozzle for intranasal medicament delivery attachable to injector
A spray nozzle for use with the injector, comprising: - A body defining a first chamber - A shoulder at the chamber’s end - A tip extending from the body and defining a second chamber with one or more holes for expelling medicament During operation, the inner sleeve of the injector is inserted into the first chamber, and depression of the plunger rod causes the needle to extend and expel medicament through the spray nozzle holes. One embodiment includes a septum between chambers, pierced by the needle upon actuation.
Medicament delivery system including injector and spray nozzle for needle-based and needle-free delivery
A system including: - An injector with a first sleeve, a second sleeve extending from the first, a biasing member inside the first sleeve, a barrel, a needle initially disposed within the second sleeve, a plunger rod, and a seal - A spray nozzle with a body, a chamber with a shoulder, and a tip having one or more holes The plunger rod is connected with the proximal end of the biasing member and the first sleeve, enabling unified translation. During use, the injector is inserted in the spray nozzle so the second sleeve contacts the shoulder and depression of the plunger rod extends the needle and expels medicament through the holes. Embodiments specify a septum that the needle pierces and automatic covering of the needle when withdrawn.
The inventive features cover an injector design with coordinated inner/outer sleeves and a low-stress biasing member for safe, reliable medicament delivery; an optional spray nozzle for intranasal, needle-free administration; and integrated systems enabling both injection and spray-based medicament delivery with safety-critical mechanisms for needle shielding.
Stated Advantages
The injector is easy to use by a patient or caregiver and is configured for reliable use after long-term storage.
Utilizing fewer parts makes the injector inexpensive and easy to manufacture.
The use of a biasing member with lower stiffness reduces component cost and allows other parts to be made to withstand lower forces.
The injector’s design helps protect against needle-stick injuries and conceals the needle before and after use, addressing concerns for patients with needle phobia.
The grip increases the ability to handle the injector reliably, even in harsh and damp conditions or when gloves are worn.
The spray nozzle enables effective needle-free intranasal medicament delivery for patients, providing versatile administration options.
Documented Applications
Delivery of epinephrine to patients at risk of anaphylaxis.
Delivery of medicaments such as ketamine, moxifloxacin, ertapenem, atropine, diazepam, or naloxone.
Intranasal delivery of medicaments, such as naloxone for opioid overdose, using a spray nozzle attachment.
Intramuscular, subcutaneous, dermal, or epidermal injection of medicaments at controlled depths.
Intravenous or intraosseous delivery of medicaments using a luer connector and tubing set.
Use in scenarios requiring secure grip, such as by troops in combat situations or when gloves are worn.
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