Researchers at MIT and Brigham and Women’s Hospital have developed a new implant to overcome drug overdoses. This new implantable device called the Implantable System for Opioid Safety (iSOS), has shown significant potential in reducing fatalities from drug overdoses. This implant continuously monitors vital signs and uses a sophisticated sensor fusion algorithm to detect drug overdoses. When an overdose is identified, the device rapidly administers naloxone, a life-saving antidote, within seconds, effectively reversing the overdose.
In trials conducted on pigs, the iSOS successfully reversed overdoses in 96% of cases, demonstrating its potential to significantly improve survival rates in humans. The device, which features a rechargeable battery and a drug reservoir holding up to 10 mg of naloxone, could offer critical protection to individuals at high risk of overdose, particularly those exposed to potent synthetic opioids like fentanyl. As opioid-related deaths continue to rise, the iSOS represents a promising advancement in overdose prevention. Researchers are now working on refining the device and preparing for human trials, with the hope that it could soon become a key tool in combating the ongoing opioid crisis. more details about this device can be found in their recently published research paper.
