Self-contained liquid microdispenser

Abstract

A compact, small, self-contained liquid containment and dispensing device is disclosed which included an elongated fluid reservoir/conduit, a liquid dispenser in the form of a liquid retentive matrix material, a gas pump and an electric pump activation circuit. The liquid to be administered or dispensed (e.g., a medication or fragrance vapor) is placed in the reservoir and the pump is activated, generating gas into the reservoir to expel the liquid from the reservoir to the matrix material at a controlled and essentially constant rate. Methods of use of the device to administer medications, provide vapors, and for other purposes are also disclosed. A substance to be administered (e.g., a medication or drug) which is soluble in the liquid can also be preloaded into the matrix material and administered by dissolution in the liquid. The device is sufficiently small to be easily portable and can be easily attached to a person's or animal's body for administration of medication to a human or animal patient. The devices may also be used, for instance, to dispense chemicals, vapor forming liquids, topical parasiticidal liquids, insecticide vapors, human or animal hormones, birth control compositions or antibiotics. The devices can be housed in compact but rugged housings which will stand up to the active movements of people or animals, or in decorative housings which can be used and displayed in homes, offices and other living or working areas.