Naloxone Atomizer
This was a concept project completed at frog. I led the research and design of this project, resulting in a high visibility concept we pitched to a number of healthcare and pharmaceutical companies.
I redesigned the Naloxone nasal atomizer; a generic drug that reverses the effects of an opiate overdose. The current products are a kit of parts assembled by nonprofits throughout the country - the goal of this project was to find a way to simplify the use of current device and simplify distribution logistics while keeping it’s costs low.
Featured in a range of online and print publications:
FastCo: How Frog Designed A Life-Saving EpiPen for Heroin Overdoses
SF Chronicle: Drug-overdose prevention gets a makeover from SF design firm Frog
This project was also a finalist in the 2016 FastCo Innovation by Design Awards.
A complete system - from distribution to use.
In talking with the SF Harm Reduction Coalition, they have to assemble kits that are robust enough to last being on the streets, while also being easy to use. The new naloxone system implements usability improvements in the device, while coming pre-assembled and pre-kitted in a robust (but low cost) case. By lowering the potential for the device to break before and during use, we can save lives and money, and allow public health systems to focus on outreach rather than kitting and assembly.
Rapid Prototyping to quickly test comfort and usability
Quick models were made throughout the development process to test comfort and ease of use. The biggest design driver of the device was the dual-nostril approach. With the current device, users need to administer half the dose in one nostril, and half in the other. By combining these steps into a single action, we can better ensure doses are administered properly.
Step 1: Open Case
When an overdose happens, every second counts. The case is designed to be easily snapped open. A clear part on the outside shows what’s inside - current kits are frequently damaged because people open them up to figure out what’s inside before they need them.
Once the cap is removed, the atomizer’s handle is presented finger height away from the bottom of the case, allowing for easy removal and quick action to the administration step
Step 2: Administer Dose
No assembly required. Unlike current products, this naloxone atomizer is ready to go once removed from the case. The syringe is pre-filled to the proper dose, and when the handle is pressed, splits the dose evenly between both nostrils.
Pre-assembled but Modular
Nasal atomizing of drugs is still nascent - however hospitals are finding in emergency cases where a vein is hard to identify, it may be easier to spray medicine into someone’s nose rather than in their arm.
By allowing the atomizer tip to be removable, hospitals and emergency rooms can fill up the atomizer with any drug and any dose, and then administer them nasally.
Featured in the San Francisco Chronicle.