Companies around the globe, such as Proteus Biomedical in California, are starting to develop new “pill technology” that will allow patients and doctors to monitor the ingestion and effects of medications. Prescription drug adherence, believe it or not, is a big issue in the world of medicine and is the root behind millions of dollars of unnecessary expenses.

So how does this work? Essentially, a small microchip made of degradable material is placed inside of the intended medication. The chip is then activated by stomach acid and works with a small water-proof patch placed on the skin. It can send wireless signals to a nearby phone and the phone will then send a notification to the manufacturer, and the manufacturer can then send messages to your phone or your doctor regarding time of ingestion, side effects, and current vital stats.

Technology like this could save millions of dollars in the field of healthcare and is expected to become available sometime in 2011.

Source: CNN.com