GB2642435A

GB2642435A - A medication container

Info

Publication number: GB2642435A
Application number: GB2409737.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Martin Shannon Gary
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2024-01-15
Filing date: 2024-07-04
Publication date: 2026-01-14
Also published as: GB202402617D0; GB202409737D0; GB202400542D0

Abstract

A medication container 600 comprising a medication compartment and a document storage compartment, each compartment having a lockable cover 602A-G. A medication container comprising a medication compartment with a lockable cover, where the compartment surface has a pair of indentations 604X,604Y either side of a ridge 606B that is configured to be moved to unlock the cover. A medication container comprising a compartment with a lockable cover, and an cover unlocking portion comprising a pushable surface normally flush with the container surface. A medication container comprised of first and second compartments with respective lockable covers, where the second cover is unlocked when the first cover is open. A medication container comprised of one or more compartments with lockable covers, the container configured to communicate with a separate electronic device. A medication container configured to receive a plurality of detachable medication storing receptacles, each receptacle having a sealable lid.

Description

[0001] A MEDICATION CONTAINER

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a medication container for storing pills, capsules, tablets and the like.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] It is estimated that around 100,000 tons of plastic are used for medicine packaging globally each year. Disposable plastic pill dispensers, for example, blister packs and dosette boxes make a significant contribution to this total.

[0006] Every year, thousands of children are hurt or die from taking medication such as tablets that they should not have or should be prohibited from gaining access to. The significant problem exists when a person has to take tablets everyday at a home that they share with their children. Children love to play with things that they should not have, such as medicinal tablets.

[0007] For elderly people that live on their own, trying to ensure that they take their tablets, if they suffer from dementia or other disabilities, and do so on time is a significant problem.

[0008] If the elderly person is looked after by a carer, a significant problem exists wherein the carer is unable to take responsibility for administering tablets unless the tablets are put in a sealed unit by a pharmacy. A carer will not assume responsibility where tablets are loose in an unsealed container.

[0009] BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The invention in its various aspects is defined in the independent claims below to which reference should now be made. Optional features are set forth in the dependent claims.

[0011] Arrangements are described in more detail below and take the form of a medication container for pills, capsules, tablets and the like. The medication container comprises a medication compartment configured to store pills, capsules, tables and the like. The medication compartment comprises a cover configured to be locked and unlocked. The medication container further comprises a document compartment. The document compartment comprises a cover configured to be locked and unlocked. The document compartment is configured to store a document.

[0012] Examples of the medication container or dosette box described herein are reusable and resealable. They therefore contribute to a reduction in material use in medicine packaging.

[0013] Examples of the medication container described herein keep children safe from taking tablets that they should not get access to.

[0014] Examples of the medication container described herein protect the elderly who can not look after themselves due to dementia, for example. This includes an arrangement to notify a carer such as to indicate medication taken and/or not taken. This also includes an arrangement which stores prescriptions for the medication.

[0015] Examples of the present invention ensure that children do not gain unauthorised access to pills, capsules and tablets or the like.

[0016] Examples of the present invention protect elderly people, who may suffer from dementia, and ensure that they take their prescribed pills, capsules and tablets or the like. Examples of the medication container enable pharmacies to seal tablets within the medication container with an air-tight seal.

[0017] An example of a medication container is provided. The container includes a medication compartment configured to store pills, capsules, tablets and the like. The medication compartment comprises a cover configured to be locked and unlocked. The cover is configured to be held in a locked position such that access to the contents of the medication compartment is restricted. The contents may be medication such as pills, capsules, tablets or the like. The cover may be moved to an unlocked position to provide access to the contents of the compartment. The cover may comprise a door or a hinged lid.

[0018] The medication container may further include a document compartment, the document compartment comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked. The document compartment is configured to store a document. The document may be a datasheet. The document may be a paper document. The paper document may be a prescription. Advantageously, the medication container reduces the chance of an elderly person forgetting where they put their paperwork to order their next repeat prescription. Also, the medication container enables a trained professional to be quickly informed about an elderly person's medication requirements. The prescription may be from a vet. The prescription may relate to medication for an animal or pet. Advantageously, this arrangement keeps the document related to the medication conveniently with the medication.

[0019] The document compartment may have a depth that is shallow. The depth may be shallow relative to the medication container. The document compartment may have a depth that is shallower than the depth of the medication compartment. The document compartment may have a width and a height such that the document compartment is configured to fit a standard prescription paper document. The standardised prescription paper document may be in a folded configuration. Advantageously, prescriptions from a vet, doctor or medical practitioner can be easily inserted, removed, and stored in the medication container.

[0020] The document compartment may be located opposite the cover of the medication compartment. The document compartment may comprise two and only two opposing sidewalls and one and only one backwall spanning between the two opposing sidewalls.

[0021] The two sidewalls may slope relative to an outer surface of the container such that there is a greater distance between a surface of each sidewall and a surface of the container at one end of the sidewall surface relative to the other end of the sidewall surface. Advantageously, prescriptions can be easily inserted and removed from the medication container, and the medication container is small such that it is portable.

[0022] Another example of a medication container is provided. The container includes a medication compartment configured to store pills, capsules, tablets and the like. The medication compartment comprises a cover configured to be locked and unlocked. The medication container comprises a pair of indentations spaced apart along a surface of the medication container. An indentation may be a recess, groove, or flute. A ridge between the pair of indentations is configured to be moved to unlock the cover of the medication compartment. The ridge may configured to be pushed to unlock the cover of the medication compartment. The ridge may be a button. Advantageously, the locking mechanism for the cover is concealed by the surface profile of the surface of the medication container. The ridge's location is disguised from children who will not be able to unlock the container.

[0023] The cover of the medication compartment may comprise a latch. The ridge may also comprise a latch. The latch may be located on the inside of the medication container. The latch of the cover and the latch of the ridge may interact to unlock the cover when the ridge is moved. The cover may extend over a portion of the ridge when the cover is locked. Advantageously, the latch mechanism is concealed when the cover is in a locked position. The medication container may comprise a plurality of pairs of indentations spaced along a surface of the container and a plurality of ridges between pairs of indentations. The plurality of ridges may comprise fixed ridges and movable ridges. The movable ridges may be configured to be moved to unlock the cover of the medication container. The movable ridges may project further from the surface of the medication container than the fixed ridges.

[0024] Another example of a medication container is provided. The container includes a compartment, the compartment comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked. The container may further include an unlocking portion for unlocking the lockable cover. The unlocking portion may include a push surface flush with a surface of the medication container, where flush denotes that the two surfaces are level in the same plane so that they form a single smooth surface. The push surface may be configured to be pushed to unlock the cover. Advantageously, the push surface may be concealed and a child will not be able to unlock the container.

[0025] The medication container may further comprise a secret door. The secret door may open when the push surface is pushed.

[0026] The medication container may trigger an alarm when the cover is unlocked. The alarm may be silenced through a method disclosed to the intended user of the container. The location of the push surface may be disclosed to the intended user of the container. The method to silence the alarm and/or the location of the push surface may be disclosed in an instruction manual provided to the intended user of the container.

[0027] The cover or compartment of the medication container may further comprise an external lock and/or an internal lock.

[0028] The actuation force of the push surface may be adjustable.

[0029] The medication container may comprise a plurality of compartments, each compartment comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked, and wherein the push surface is configured to be pushed to unlock the first of the plurality of covers.

[0030] Another example of a medication container is provided. The container comprises a first compartment with a first cover configured to be locked and unlocked; and a second compartment with a second cover configured to be locked and unlocked. The medication container may be configured such that when the first cover is opened, the second cover is unlocked.

[0031] The first cover of the medication container may further comprise a portion which overlaps the second cover.

[0032] Each of the first and second covers or compartments of the medication container may further comprise an external lock and/or an internal lock.

[0033] The medication container may also comprise of a plurality of compartments each comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked. The medication container may be configured such that when one of the covers is opened, another of the plurality of covers is unlocked. Advantageously, a child will not gain access to all containers and an elderly person with dementia will take their medication in the correct order.

[0034] In another example of the medication container, the medication container comprises one or more compartments, the one or each compartment comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked. The medication container may communicate with a separate electronic device. The electronic device may be any connection capable user device or computer such as a smartphone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer or a desktop workstation. The medication container may send notifications and/or alarms to the electronic device to notify a user of actions that have been taken or need to be taken.

[0035] An alarm may be sent to the electronic device when the first of the one or more covers is unlocked.

[0036] The medication container may further comprise a button wherein, when the button is pushed, it sends an alarm to the electronic device.

[0037] The medication container may comprise seven compartments.

[0038] An alarm may be sent to the electronic device when a predetermined cover has not been unlocked on a predetermined day.

[0039] The location of the medication container may be ascertained from the electronic device. An alarm may be sent to the electronic device when the container is empty or filled only to a predetermined level.

[0040] The medication container may communicate with an online medical record.

[0041] The medication container may further comprise a gas sensor for detecting gas. An alarm may be sent to the electronic device when a gas has been detected. Advantageously, a guardian can be alerted if their elderly relative leaves a gas cooker on by mistake.

[0042] The or each compartment of the medication container may be divided into sections. The number of sections may correspond to the number of doses to be taken over a predetermined time interval. Some or all of the sections may further comprise a cover.

[0043] The number of compartments of the medication container may correspond to the number of doses to be taken over a predetermined time interval, or correspond to the number of doses and duration of a course of medication. There may be seven compartments corresponding to the number of days of the week. There may be four compartments corresponding to the number of days over the weekend from Friday to Monday.

[0044] In another example of the medication container, the medication container is configured to receive a plurality of receptacles. The receptacles are each for containing at least one pill, capsule, tablet and the like. Each receptacle is configured to be attached and detached from the medication container. Each receptacle may be attached and detached to the medication container by a screw thread. The screw thread may surround the outer rim of an opening of the receptacle. Each receptacle comprises a lid configured to seal and unseal an opening of the receptacle; where seal denotes securely closing the opening of the receptacle such that the receptacle Is airtight; and unseal denotes that the seal is removed or broken. Advantageously, the receptacle of the medication container may be refilled and sealed by a pharmacist. In this way, a trained professional is responsible for refilling the medication container with the correct prescription.

[0045] Pressure applied to the lid may seal the opening of the receptacle. Pressure may be applied to the lid when the receptacle is attached to the medication container.

[0046] The lid may be configured to be gripped by a user to unseal the opening of the receptacle. The lid may comprise a tab. The tab may be used to release the seal of the lid. Advantageously, a user peels the lid away from the receptacle without tools or excessive force.

[0047] The medication container may comprise a plurality of covers configured to be opened and closed to provide access to the contents of each receptacle when it is attached to the medication container. Each cover may comprise a label that informs the user when to open the cover.

[0048] An example of a receptacle configured for use in this example of the medication container is provided.

[0049] The number of receptacles received by the medication container may correspond to the number of doses and duration of a course of medication.

[0050] The medication container may be portable.

[0051] The medication container may be manufactured by injection moulding. The container may be made from recycled plastics material. The container may be made from a non-toxic plastics material.

[0052] The medication container may further comprise a compartment configured to store a paper document such as a prescription.

[0053] The medication container may be configured to emit light.

[0054] A method of using the medication container is described, the method comprises opening a compartment comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked; and pushing a surface of an unlocking portion, the surface being flush with a surface of the medication container, to unlock the cover.

[0055] Another method of using the medication container is described, the method comprises opening a first compartment comprising a first cover to be locked and unlocked, and a second compartment comprising a second cover to be locked and unlocked. The first cover is opened in order to unlock the second cover and gain access to the second compartment.

[0056] S

[0057] In another method of using the medication container, the method comprises placing a lid over an opening of a receptacle; and attaching the receptacle to the medication container such that the opening of the receptacle is sealed. The lid is subsequently unsealed in order to gain access to the contents of the receptacle attached to the medication container.

[0058] Features of the various examples may be combined together completely or in part. Features described separately does not mean that the features are separate.

[0059] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0060] The invention will be described in more detail, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1A is a schematic of the medication container according to some examples in a closed configuration; FIG. 1B is a schematic of a portion of the medication container of FIG. 1A; FIG. 1C is a schematic of the medication container according to some examples in a closed configuration; FIG. 2 is a schematic of another portion of the medication container of FIG 1A in an open configuration; FIG 3. is a schematic of another portion of the medication container of FIG 1A in an open configuration; FIG 4. is a schematic of the medication container according to some examples in an open configuration; FIG 5. is a schematic of a portion of the medication container of FIG. 4; FIG. 6A is a schematic of the medication container according to some examples in an open configuration; FIG. 6B is a transparent view of the receptacle and lid configured to be attached and detached from the medication container of FIG. 6A; FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the medication container of FIG.6A with a plurality of the receptacles of FIG. 6B; FIG. 8 is a schematic of the medication container according to some examples; FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the medication container of FIG.8 with a plurality of the receptacles of FIG. 6B; FIG. 10 is a schematic of the medication container according to some examples in a closed configuration; FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the medication container of FIG 10 with a document compartment in an open configuration; FIG 12 is a schematic of a portion of the medication container of FIG 10 in an open configuration; and FIG 13 is schematic of another portion of the medication container of FIG 10 in an open configuration.

[0061] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0062] Example medication containers, dosette boxes, or pill dispensers will now be described with reference to Figures 1 to 9.

[0063] As used in this application, the terms "box", "dispenser", and the like are intended to refer to a medication container for pills, capsules, tablets or the like.

[0064] Referring initially to Figure 1A, an example medication container 100 is illustrated. The medication container comprises a compartment 105A, the compartment comprising a cover 102 configured to be locked and unlocked. The cover is configured to be held in a locked position such that access to the contents of the compartment is restricted. The cover is moved to an unlocked position to provide access to the contents of the compartment. The cover comprises a door or a hinged lid. The cover further comprises an internal lock 101 and/or an external lock 102. When the user gets the box for the first time it may be locked using the internal lock 101 and/or external lock 102. The container further comprises an unlocking portion for unlocking the lockable cover. The unlocking portion comprises a push surface 106 flush with a surface of the container. The push surface is configured to be pushed to unlock the cover.

[0065] In this example, the medication container comprises a plurality of compartments each with a cover configured to be locked and unlocked. The medication container may be configured such that when one of the covers is opened, another of the plurality of covers is unlocked.

[0066] The number of compartments corresponds to the number of days and doses in a course of medication. In the example illustrated in Figure 1A, there are seven and only seven compartments 105A-G corresponding to a seven day course of medication. The box can be used as a 7-day pill dispenser or a 7-day morning and night pill dispenser. In this example, each cover comprises a portion 103 which extends above and overlaps the subsequent cover, as illustrated in Figure 1 B. The overlapping portion 103 of lid 105C extends over so as to partly cover the subsequent lid 105D. The push surface 106 is configured to be pushed to unlock the first of the plurality of lockable covers. The new user may have to read an instruction manual on how to open the box for the first time.

[0067] The medication container further comprise a gas sensor within housing 118. The container comprises one or more gas sensor vents 117 and 119. The housing and/or the vents may be positioned on the top or the bottom surface of the medication container. When the gas sensor detects a gas or other dangerous gaseous substances, it triggers an alarm. An alarm is also sent to an electronic device that is monitored by the user's guardian. This alerts the guardian of an oncoming danger to the user and gives them time to respond to the presence of the dangerous substance. Advantageously, a guardian can be alerted if their elderly relative leaves a gas cooker on by mistake.

[0068] In this example, when the pill box is completely closed it resembles a harmonica musical instrument in appearance.

[0069] Figure 10 illustrates medication container 200 which is identical to medication container 100 of Figure 1A in most respects and like features have been given like reference numerals. The medication container 200 of Figure 10 comprises a larger unlocking portion than the medication container 100 of Figure 1A. Depth 220 of Figure 10 is larger than depth 120 of Figure 1A. The unlocking portion comprises a housing for batteries. The battery housing is child-safe such that access to the batteries is restricted.

[0070] Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary unlocking portion of the medication container 100. The side of the container comprises a push surface 106 which is configured to be pushed to open secret door 107. When the push surface 106 is pressed, the internal lock 109 no longer holds door 107 in place and door 107 is unlocked. The user then has access to be able to open the first compartment 105A.

[0071] By opening the secret door 107, a pop up button 108 is released to trigger an alarm. The alarm is thus triggered when the cover is unlocked. The method to silence the alarm may be disclosed in the instructions to the user. If a child manages to gain access and open the secret door, triggering the alarm, the child is not able to turn off the alarm.

[0072] The actuation force required to press push surface 106 to unlock the first compartment is adjustable to suit the user (a strong setting for some users and a weaker setting for others).

[0073] Referring to Figure 3, illustrated is another exemplary portion of the medication container comprising a first compartment with a first cover 110 configured to be locked and unlocked; and a second compartment 111 with a second cover configured to be locked and unlocked. Each door further comprises internal lock or latch 112, external lock 113 and overlapping portion 114. The medication container is configured such that when the first cover is opened, the second cover is unlocked.

[0074] The user is only able to open one door at a time from left to right in a sequential order.

[0075] Door 110 must be opened before door 111 can be opened. The user is only able to close one door at a time when filling the medication container or pill box from right to left in a sequential order. Door 111 must be closed before door 110 can be closed.

[0076] Referring to Figure 4, illustrated is an example medication container 300 in an open configuration. Medication container 300 is identical to medication container 100 of Figure 1A in most respects and like features have been given like reference numerals. In this example, each of the seven compartments 105A-G comprises a cover configured to be locked and unlocked. Each of the seven compartments 105A-G comprises internal locks 302A-G. Each cover comprises a latch 304A-G. The latches 304A-G interact with internal locks 302A-G. The latches 304A-G enable each cover to be locked and unlocked. In this example, secret door 107 also comprises a latch 306. The enables the secret door to be opened when the push surface 106 is pushed.

[0077] In this example, each compartment 105A-G has been divided into two, and further comprises an internal compartment 308A-G within each compartment 105A-G. Each internal compartment comprises a cover. The internal compartment is configured to contain medication that is to be taken at night.

[0078] In this example, the medication container comprises a compartment on the underside of the medication container. The compartment is configured to store a paper document such as a prescription. The compartment comprises a cover 310. Advantageously, the medication container reduces the chance of an elderly person forgetting where they put their paperwork to order their next repeat prescription.

[0079] The medication container further comprises compartment 312 at one side of the medication container. The compartment is separate to the unlocking system of the seven compartments 105A-G. The compartment may be configured to store private medication that is separate to the tablets held in the other seven compartments 105A-G. The compartment comprises a cover 314. The cover comprises a latch 316 which enables the cover to be locked and unlocked.

[0080] Figure 5 illustrates a section view of a portion of medication container 300. Covers of compartments 105A-G and cover 107 are not shown. Figure 5 illustrates how push surface 106 is configured to be pushed to unlock secret door 107. Push surface 106 forms part of portion 318. Portion 318 comprises a notch 320. When push surface 106 is pushed inwards, indicated by arrow 360, notch 320 is pushed into hole 322. When notch 320 is pushed into hole 322, it pushes against latch 306. This opens secret door 107. The user is then able to open the first compartment 105A.

[0081] In some examples, the pill box can communicate with a separate electronic device. The electronic device may be any connection capable user device or computer such as a smartphone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer or a desktop workstation.

[0082] With reference to Figure 3, each compartment may comprise a button, 115 and 116, which may be configured to be released to send an alarm to the electronic device. In this way, when each cover is opened, an alarm may be sent to the electronic device.

[0083] With reference to Figure 1A, the exemplary medication container further comprises a panic button 104 wherein, when the button is pushed, an alarm is sent to the electronic device. Advantageously, if something concerning happens to a loved one or someone being cared for, they may send an alarm directly to the electronic device that is monitored by their guardian. The panic button is arranged such that it is not accidentally triggered. This may be achieved by placing a hinged cover over the button.

[0084] The alarm system may be connected to the electronic device by a downloadable app from a website, such as wwwharrnonvoWhox.com, or an app store.

[0085] An alarm may be sent to the electronic device when a predetermined cover has not been unlocked on a predetermined day. An alarm may be sent to the electronic device when medication has not been taken from the container in any period corresponding to the duration of a course of medication. The period may be 7, 14, and/or 28 days long.

[0086] Advantageously, the pill box can be given to an elderly family member. If they forget to take their pills, if a door in the pill box had not been opened on a day in which those tablets are to be taken, the box may trigger an alarm to the electronic device.

[0087] The alarm may be silenced through a method which is disclosed to the Intended user of the container, such as in an instruction manual.

[0088] The location of the container may be ascertained from the electronic device. The pill box can thus be located if it is lost.

[0089] An alarm may be sent to the electronic device when the container is empty or filled only to a predetermined level. This reminds the user to refill their prescription.

[0090] In some examples, the pill box is used to store other medical treatments in one or more of its compartments such as hypodermic needles. Such needles may be stored in the pill box out of the way of children.

[0091] The pill box may be connected to an online medical record.

[0092] Referring to Figures 6A and 6B, illustrated is another example of the medication container 400 configured to receive a receptacle 402. The receptacle is configured to be secured to and removed from the medication container. The medication container comprises a plurality of covers 410A-G. The covers 410A-G are configured to be opened and closed to provide access to the contents of the detachably attachable receptacle 402 beneath each cover. The medication container comprises a plurality of holes 408. Each receptacle 402 may be configured to be attached to the medication container such that it cannot be attached to any different medication containers. This may be achieved through a nonstandard thread surrounding the opening 406 of the receptacle 402. A corresponding thread surrounds the inside of holes 408. Lids 404 are placed on the opening 406 of the receptacle 402. Lids 404 hermetically seal the receptacle when the receptacle is secured to the medication container. The medication container further comprises a cover 412 beneath the container.

[0093] In this example, the lid or lids 404 are made from metal, in this example, the metal is aluminium. Alternatively, the lid or lids 404 may be made from plastic. The lid or lids 404 may instead be made from kraft paper. In this example, when pressure is applied to a lid placed over opening 406, it conforms tightly to the rim of opening 406. The pressure applied by attaching the receptacle 402 to the medication container is sufficient to create a secure bond between the lid and the receptacle. The pressure applied by attaching the receptacle to the medication container is sufficient to hermetically seal the receptacle. In this way, the medication container 400 is self-sealing.

[0094] Each lid 404 is designed to be easily gripped or pulled by a user. In this example, each lid 404 comprises a tab. The tab is used to release the seal of the lid. The seal is released in order to access the contents of the receptacle. The lid is configured such that the user peels the lid away from the receptacle without the need for tools or excessive force.

[0095] The medication container is divided into two rows of holes. The medication container further comprises a plurality of internal covers 414A-G beneath covers 410A-G. Internal covers 414A-G are located over one row of holes. Each internal cover is configured to cover the opening of a receptacle attached to the medication container, the receptacle containing medication that is to be taken at night.

[0096] The medication container comprises a compartment 416 at one side of the medication container. The compartment is separate to the unlocking system of the seven covers 410A-G. The compartment may be configured to store private medication that is separate to the tablets held beneath the other seven covers 410A-G. The compartment comprises a cover 418. The cover comprises a latch 420 which enables the cover to be locked and unlocked.

[0097] Referring to Figure 7, illustrated is a bottom view of the example 400 of the medication container. There may be a plurality of receptacles 402, each medication receptacle 402 being configured to be secured to and removed from the medication container 400. The number of receptacles corresponds to the number of days and doses in a course of medication. In this example, there are fourteen receptacles corresponding to two doses per day of a seven day course of medication; or one dose per day of a fourteen day course of medication.

[0098] A user of the container places their tablets into the receptacle 402. The user places a lid 404 on top of each bottle 402 and then screws the bottles 402 into the medication container 400. The receptacle 402 is screwed in to one of holes 408 from the underside of the medication container 400. After all receptacles 402 have been put back into the medication container 400, an underneath cover 412 is shut. This secures the receptacles 402 into the unit. To access the contents of a receptacle attached to the medication container, the user unseals the lid of the receptacle. The user opens the lid using the tab attached to the lid.

[0099] To refill the medication container, the user removes the receptacle 402 from the medication container 400. The user removes the old lid. The user places a new set of tablets into the receptacle 402. The user puts a new replacement lid 404 on the top of the receptacle. The receptacle 402 is screwed back into the medication container. This seals the opening 406 of the receptacle 402. Advantageously, each receptacle 402 can be re-used, reducing waste.

[0100] In summary, the medication container 400 has an underneath portion to which a bottle 402 is screw fastened and unfastened. The bottle has a seal 404 that can be removed from the top of the medication container to access the medication within. The seal may be replaced with a new seal when new medication is put into the bottle. In this way, the medication container and bottle are reusable. This reduces plastic waste.

[0101] In this example, the receptacle of the medication container may be refilled and sealed by a pharmacist. In this way, a trained professional is responsible for refilling the medication container with the correct prescription.

[0102] Referring to Figure 8, illustrated is a top view of another example 500 of the medication container. In this example, the medication container comprises a plurality of covers 502 configured to be opened and closed to provide access to the contents of a receptacle secured beneath each cover. The number of covers 502 corresponds to the number of days and doses in a course of medication. In this example, there are twenty-eight receptacles corresponding to two doses per day of a fourteen day course of medication; or one dose per day of a twenty-eight day course of medication. Each cover comprises label 504. The label informs the user when to open the cover. In this example, each label comprises a label of each day of the week and a corresponding label for each night of the week, which indicates the correct time to take the medication in each receptacle.

[0103] In this example, the medication container 500 resembles a book when in a closed configuration. The medication container further comprises a book-type front cover 506. The front cover is closed to shield all of the individual covers 502. The underside of cover 506 comprises labels 508. Labels 508 comprise information about the medication stored in the medication container. Advantageously, a pharmacist can place information for a user about their medication and when they should take it. The medication container further comprises a cover 510 beneath the container.

[0104] The medication container further comprises push surfaces 512L and 512R flush with a surface of the container. The push surfaces 512L and 512R are configured to be pushed to unlock the front cover 506. In this example, the push surfaces 512L and 512I1 are to be pushed simultaneously. The push surfaces 516L and 516R are configured to be pushed to unlock the cover 510 beneath the container. In this example, the push surfaces 516L and 516R are to be pushed simultaneously.

[0105] Referring to Figure 9, illustrated is a bottom view of example 500 of the medication container. In this illustration, cover 510 is in an open configuration. The medication container comprises a plurality of holes 518. In this example, the medication container is configured to receive a plurality of receptacles 402 as illustrated in Figure 6B; like features have been given like reference numerals. In this example, cover 510 also comprises latches 517R and 517L. This enables the cover 510 to be unlocked when the push surfaces 516L and 516I1 are pushed at the same time. A user of the container places their tablets into the receptacle 402. The user places a lid 404 on top of each bottle 402. The user then screws each bottle 402 into the medication container 500. The receptacle 402 is screwed in to one of the holes 518 from the underside of the medication container 500.

[0106] After all receptacles have been put back into the medication container 500, the cover 510 is shut. This secures each of the plurality of receptacles 402 into the unit.

[0107] Referring to Figure 10, illustrated is a top view of another example 600 of the medication container. The medication container comprises a cover 602B. Cover 602B is configured to be locked and unlocked. In this example, there are a plurality of covers 602A-G configured to be opened and closed to provide access to the contents of the medication compartments beneath each cover. Each cover comprises a door or a hinged lid. The medication container comprises a plurality of alternating indentations 604 and ridges 605,606 spaced apart along a front surface of the medication container. The indentations form a surface profile of raised ridges 605,606, and indentations 604. Ridges 605,606 are formed between a pair of indentations 604. Ridge 606B is formed between a pair of indentations 604X and 604Y. Ridge 606B is configured to be pushed to unlock a cover 6023 of the medication compartment when cover 6023 is locked. In this example, there are a plurality of ridges 606 configured to be pushed to unlock a respective cover 602A-G of the medication compartment.

[0108] Referring to Figure 11, illustrated is a bottom view of example 600 of the medication container. The medication container comprises a document compartment 608. The document compartment comprises cover 610 configured to be locked and unlocked. The document compartment is configured to store a paper document. In this example, the paper document is a doctor or vet's prescription. The cover 610 is configured to be opened and closed to provide access to the prescription stored within compartment 608.

[0109] Document compartment 608 is located beneath the medication compartments. The document compartment is located on the underside of the medication container. The document compartment is located opposite the cover of the medication compartment when the cover is closed. The document compartment has a shallow depth. The document compartment has dimensions such that it is configured to fit a prescription paper document.

[0110] Prescriptions typically come on standardized forms with standard dimensions of approximately 139 mm x 99mm. An example of a standardized form is the United Kingdom National Health Service FP10 form. In this example, the paper document is stored in a folded configuration. Alternatively, the paper document may be stored in an unfolded configuration.

[0111] In this example, the document compartment 608 is configured to fit a prescription paper document. Alternatively, the document compartment 608 may store one or more prescription documents. The document compartment may store a number of prescription documents corresponding to the number of different medications the user is taking. This may typically be in the range of 1 to 5 prescription documents.

[0112] Document compartment 608 comprises two opposing sidewalls, in particular two opposing sidewalls 612 and 614. Document compartment comprises one backwall, in particular one backwall 616 spans between the two sidewalls. Document compartment is formed of three and only three sidewalls 612, 614 and 616. Top surface 618 of sidewall 614 comprises two ends 620 and 622. Sidewalls 612 and 614 slope relative to an outer surface of medication container 600 such that end 622, adjacent to backwall 616, is further from the outer surface than end 620, adjacent to the hinge of cover 610. This arrangement enables easy access to the prescription documents while minimising the size of the medication container. When cover 610 open, there is enough clearance for a person and, in particular, even a person with some restricted mobility to easily retrieve the documents.

[0113] Document compartment 608 comprises a latch 624. Latch 624 is configured to lock and unlock cover 610. When cover 610 is closed, compartment 608 is secured to prevent any paper documents from shifting or falling out.

[0114] Referring to Figures 12 and 13, ridge 606B and cover 602B each comprises a latch 626 and 628 respectively. The latch is configured to unlock the cover 602B when the ridge 606B is pushed. Ridge 606B is pushed into a recess in the medication container to separate latches 626 and 628, and unlock cover 602B.

[0115] Referring back to Figure 10, covers 602A-G extend over a portion of ridges 605 and 606. Cover 602B conceals latch 626 when it is closed. Similarly, covers 602A-G conceal latches of the ridges 606 configured to be pushed to unlock the covers. A person and in particular a young child is unable to distinguish which of ridges 605 or 606 are configured to be pushed to unlock covers 602A-G. In this way, they do not gain unauthorised access to the contents of the medication container.

[0116] In some examples, the medication container is made by injection moulding, such as in one piece or as a unitary element, such as by one piece injection moulding.

[0117] In some examples, the medication container is made of recyclable plastic or plastics material.

[0118] In some examples, there are no moving parts in the box such that there is nothing for children to choke on. And, in some examples, the box is made from non-toxic plastic or plastics material such that a child cannot be poisoned if they chew on the box.

[0119] In some examples, the medication container is portable. The medication container or pill box is able to be easily carried or moved by the user while in their home or while travelling.

[0120] This may be due to it being of a small size and of little weight to be readily hand held or to fit in a pocket.

[0121] In some examples, the medication container may be configured to emit light or glow in the dark such that it can be used in dimly lit environments.

[0122] In some examples, each of the covers of the medication container may comprise braille. The braille is in the form of tactile raised dots. The braille informs the user when to open the cover. The braille may indicate each day of the week. In this way, the medication container can be used be people who are visually impaired.

[0123] Examples of the present invention have been described. It will be appreciated that variations and modifications may be made to the described examples within the scope of the present invention.

[0124] Examples of the invention may be described by the following numbered clauses.

[0125] CLAUSES

[0126] 1. A medication container for pills, capsules, tablets and the like, comprising: a compartment comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked; and an unlocking portion configured to unlock the cover when locked, wherein the unlocking portion comprises a push surface flush with a surface of the medication container; and wherein the push surface is configured to be pushed to unlock the cover when locked.

[0127] 2. The medication container of clause 1, wherein the medication container further comprises a secret door; and wherein the secret door opens when the push surface is pushed.

[0128] 3. The medication container of any preceding clause, wherein an alarm is triggered when the cover is unlocked.

[0129] 4. The medication container of any preceding clause, wherein the cover further comprises an external lock and/or an internal lock.

[0130] 5. The medication container of any preceding clause, comprising a plurality of compartments each compartment comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked, and wherein the push surface is configured to be pushed to unlock the first of the plurality of covers.

[0131] 6. A medication container for pills, capsules, tablets and the like, the medication container comprising: a first compartment comprising a first cover configured to be locked and unlocked; and a second compartment comprising a second cover configured to be locked and unlocked; wherein the medication container is configured such that when the first cover is opened, the second cover is unlocked.

[0132] 7. The medication container of clause 6, wherein the first cover further comprises a portion which overlaps the second cover.

[0133] 8. The medication container of any of clauses 6 to 7, comprising a plurality of compartments each comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked; wherein the medication container is configured such that when one of the covers is opened, another of the plurality of covers is unlocked.

[0134] 9. A medication container for pills, capsules, tablets and the like, the medication container comprising: one or more compartments, the one or each compartment comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked; and, wherein the medication container communicates with a separate electronic device.

[0135] 10. The medication container of clause 9, wherein an alarm is sent to the electronic device when the first of the one or more covers is unlocked.

[0136] 11. The medication container of any of clauses 9 to 10 further comprising a button wherein, when the button is pushed, it sends an alarm to the electronic device.

[0137] 12. The medication container of any of clauses 9 to 11, wherein an alarm is sent to the electronic device when a predetermined cover has not been unlocked on a predetermined day.

[0138] 13. The medication container of any of clauses 9 to 12, wherein the location of the medication container is ascertained from the electronic device.

[0139] 14. The medication container of any of clauses 9 to 13, wherein an alarm is sent to the electronic device when the container is empty or filled only to a predetermined level.

[0140] 15. The medication container of any of clauses 9 to 14, wherein the medication container communicates with an online medical record.

[0141] 16. The medication container of any of clauses 9 to 15, wherein the container further comprises a gas sensor for a detecting gas; and/or wherein an alarm is sent to the electronic device when a gas has been detected.

[0142] 17. The medication container of any preceding clause, wherein the or each compartment is divided into sections corresponding to the number of doses to be taken over a predetermined time interval; optionally, wherein some or all of the sections further comprise a cover.

[0143] 18. The medication container of any of clauses 5, and 8 to 17, wherein the number of compartments corresponds to the number of doses and duration of a course of medication.

[0144] 19 A medication container, the medication container being configured to receive a plurality of receptacles, the receptacles are each for containing at least one pill, capsule, tablet and the like; wherein each receptacle is configured to be attached and detached from the medication container; and wherein each receptacle comprises a lid configured to seal and unseal an opening of the receptacle.

[0145] 20. The medication container of clause 19, wherein pressure applied to the lid seals the opening of the receptacle when the receptacle is attached to the medication container.

[0146] 21. The medication container of any of clauses 19 to 20, wherein the lid is configured to be gripped by a user to unseal the opening of the receptacle. 25 22 The medication container of any of clauses 19 to 21, wherein the container comprises a plurality of covers configured to be opened and closed to provide access to the contents of each receptacle when it is attached to the medication container; optionally, wherein each cover comprises a label that informs the user when to open the cover.

[0147] 23. A receptacle configured for use in the medication container of clause 19.

[0148] 24 The medication container of any of clauses 19 to 23, wherein the number of receptacles corresponds to the number of doses and duration of a course of medication.

[0149] 25. The medication container of any preceding clause, wherein the container further comprises a compartment configured to store a paper document such as a prescription.

Claims

1. 24 CLAIMS A medication container for pills, capsules, tablets and the like comprising: a medication compartment configured to store pills, capsules, tablets and the like, the medication compartment comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked; and a document compartment comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked; wherein the document compartment is configured to store a document.

2. The medication container of claim 1, wherein the document compartment has a depth that is shallow.

3. The medication container of any preceding claim, wherein the document compartment has a width and a height such that the document compartment is configured to fit a standard prescription paper document.

4. The medication container of any claim 3, wherein the document compartment is configured to fit a standard prescription paper document in a folded configuration.

5. The medication container of any preceding claim, wherein the document compartment is located opposite the cover of the medication compartment.

6. The medication container of any preceding claim, wherein the document compartment comprises two and only two opposing sidewalls, and one and only one backwall spanning between the two opposing sidewalls.

7. The medication container of claim 6, wherein two and only two opposing sidewalls slope relative to an outer surface of the container.

8. The medication container of any preceding claim, wherein the medication container further comprises: a pair of indentations spaced apart along a surface of the medication container; wherein a ridge between the pair of indentations is configured to be moved to unlock the cover of the medication compartment.

9. The medication container of claim 8, wherein the cover of the medication compartment comprises a latch, and the ridge comprises a latch, wherein the latch of the cover and the latch of the ridge interact to unlock the cover when the ridge is moved.

10. The medication container of claim 9, wherein the cover extends over a portion of the ridge when the cover is locked.

11. The medication container of any of claims 8 to 10, wherein the medication container comprises a plurality of pairs of indentations spaced apart along a surface of the medication container and a plurality of ridges between pairs of indentations.

12. A medication container for pills, capsules, tablets, and the like, comprising: a medication compartment configured to store pills, capsules, tablets and the like, the medication container comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked; and a pair of indentations spaced apart along a surface of the medication container; wherein a ridge between the pair of indentations is configured to be moved to unlock the cover of the medication compartment.

13. The medication container of claim 12, wherein the cover of the medication compartment comprises a latch, and the ridge comprises a latch, wherein the latch of the cover and the latch of the ridge interact to unlock the cover when the ridge is moved.

14. The medication container of claim 13, wherein the cover extends over a portion of the ridge when the cover is locked.

15. 15 The medication container of any of claims 12 to 14, wherein the medication container comprises a plurality of pairs of indentations spaced apart along a surface of the medication container and a plurality of ridges between pairs of indentations.

16. The medication container of claim 15 wherein the ridges comprise fixed ridges and movable ridges.

17. The medication container of claim 16 wherein the movable ridges are configured to be moved to unlock the cover of the medication container. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24.

18. The medication container of claim 16 or claim 17 wherein the movable ridges project further from the surface of the medication container than the fixed ridges.

19. The medication container of any preceding claim, wherein the medication container comprises a plurality of medication compartments corresponding to the number of doses to be taken over a predetermined time interval, each medication compartment comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked.

20. The medication container of claim 18, wherein the medication container comprises seven medication compartments; or wherein the medication container comprises four medication compartments.

21. The medication container of claim 19 or claim 20, wherein each cover of each medication compartment comprises a label that informs the user when to open the cover.

22. A medication container for pills, capsules, tablets and the like, comprising: a compartment comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked; and an unlocking portion configured to unlock the cover when locked, wherein the unlocking portion comprises a push surface flush with a surface of the medication container; and wherein the push surface is configured to be pushed to unlock the cover when locked.

23. A medication container for pills, capsules, tablets and the like, the medication container comprising: a first compartment comprising a first cover configured to be locked and unlocked; and a second compartment comprising a second cover configured to be locked and unlocked; wherein the medication container is configured such that when the first cover is opened, the second cover is unlocked.

24. A medication container for pills, capsules, tablets and the like, the medication container comprising: one or more compartments, the one or each compartment comprising a cover configured to be locked and unlocked; and, wherein the medication container communicates with a separate electronic device.

25. 25 A medication container, the medication container being configured to receive a plurality of receptacles, the receptacles are each for containing at least one pill, capsule, tablet and the like; wherein each receptacle is configured to be attached and detached from the medication container; and wherein each receptacle comprises a lid configured to seal and unseal an opening of the receptacle.