Riyadh, August (پاکستان پوائنٹ نیوز 31 أغسطس 2025ء) According to a recent KACST press release, this capsule represents a breakthrough and a new approach in the field of timed drug delivery customized to each patient’s needs. Its innovative design relies on a programmed release mechanism within a single capsule, making it easier for patients, especially those taking multiple medications daily, to adhere to their treatment plans. This innovation enhances medication adherence, improves drug efficacy, and leads to better health outcomes within a more personalized and patient-centered healthcare framework.
The US-patented capsule features smart polymer barriers that separate each medication, allowing it to be released as needed for each patient. Additionally, certain parts of the capsule have self-regulating capabilities that enable it to relieve pain or respond quickly to urgent needs.
The capsule helps reduce drug interactions and the risk of missed doses or accidental overdoses. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 50% of patients with chronic illnesses do not take their prescription medications as directed, which can lead to health complications and increased costs for the healthcare system.
KACST Bioengineering Institute lead researcher and scientist Dr. Amal Abbas explained that this innovation aims to simplify medication management through a smart capsule capable of delivering the right drug, at the right dose, and at the right time. It also seeks to increase medication adherence rates and reduce costs associated with unused or improperly used medications.
This innovation will transform how people from various groups in society manage multiple medications and treatments for chronic diseases and heart conditions, simplifying complex therapies and making them smarter and more effective for each patient, thereby sparking a revolution in personalized medicine. Abbas added that clinical tests of the capsule have shown promising effectiveness in Parkinson’s disease patients, providing them with rapid and sustained responses to symptom-control medications.
To support the objectives of the Saudi Vision 2030 and national goals for research, development, and innovation, the capsule is expected to reduce the financial burden on healthcare and pharmaceutical manufacturing systems by lowering direct and indirect costs associated with poor medication adherence by up to 20%, as well as minimizing hospital operating costs by up to 8%. It will also help improve health quality through the adoption of innovative technological solutions.
The release also highlighted that the team is currently completing the necessary regulatory procedures with the relevant authorities to initiate precise preclinical and clinical trials for this innovation, aiming to ensure its effectiveness and safety. By simplifying daily medication intake and promoting adherence, this innovation is expected to significantly enhance the patient experience and elevate healthcare standards in the coming years.
