He says doctors will be able to reprogram the device from a computer or even a cell phone.
The seven women in the study were ages sixty-five to seventy. The researchers say the implants were just as effective as daily injections. And they say the dosage amounts were more exact than patients often give themselves.
The microchips in the study held only twenty doses of medicine. Mr. Farra and his team are now designing a version that could hold a full year's worth of medicine.
ROBERT FARRA: "We anticipate two years to complete the design, and then we may be required to do two additional trials, taking us out to a total of four years before the device is available on the commercial scale."
He says the microchips may one day free patients from having to remember to take their medicine, or give themselves injections. He says the device may also be useful in treating other chronic diseases, including heart disease and multiple sclerosis.
