Controlled activation ingestible identifier

Abstract

Controlled activation identifiers for use in ingestible compositions, such as pharma-informatics enabled compositions, are provided. The identifiers include a controlled activation element that provides for activation of the identifier in response to the presence of a predetermined stimulus at a target site of interest. The invention finds use in a variety of different applications, including but not limited to, monitoring of therapeutic regimen compliance, tracking the history of pharmaceutical agents, etc.

1 .- 51 . (canceled) 
     
     
         52 . An apparatus for use with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, the apparatus comprising:
 a first electrode;   a second electrode;   wherein the first electrode and the second electrode comprise dissimilar materials configured to generate an electrical potential upon contracting an ionic solution;   a circuit electrically coupled to each of the first electrode and the second electrode, the circuit configured to generate a signal;   wherein the circuit is stably fittable to the pharmaceutically acceptable carrier; and   a protective layer enclosing at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode from the ionic solution, the protective layer configured to be dissolved by the ionic solution.   
     
     
         53 . The apparatus of  claim 52 , wherein the protective layer encloses both the first electrode and the second electrode. 
     
     
         54 . The apparatus of  claim 52 , wherein the signal comprises an RF signal. 
     
     
         55 . The apparatus of  claim 52 , wherein the circuit further comprises a coil, the circuit configured to generate an oscillating current when powered by the first electrode and the second electrode and the coil configured to generate an RF signal according to the oscillating current. 
     
     
         56 . The apparatus of  claim 52 , wherein the protective layer comprises a time-controlled dissolution composition. 
     
     
         57 . The apparatus of  claim 52 , wherein the protective layer comprises a composition configured to dissolve upon contacting a solution embodying a target level of a property, the property selected from the group consisting of pH and conductivity.