Importance

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Abstract

The present invention provides methods and apparatus permitting rapid and thorough hydration of an initially dry hydratable matrix element contained within a bioelectrode element for use in an iontophoretic delivery device. The apparatus of the invention comprises a bioelectrode element for iontophoretic delivery of medicaments having at least one hydratable matrix element and associated removable hydration assembly. The removable hydration assembly includes an initially sealed liquid-storage component which maintains the desired hydrating liquid in isolation from the hydratable matrix element until such time as hydration is desired. At that time, the removable hydration assembly can be activated by the user through application of force to a pocket in a side of the sealed liquid-storage component to cause the pocket to become inverted and substantially aligned within an opposing pocket in the other side such that the sealed liquid-storage component unseals at a predetermined release location. The hydrating liquid is then released into the hydratable matrix element. Following hydration of the matrix element, the spent hydration assembly can be separated from the now-hydrated bioelectrode element.

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First Claim