An Introduction to: Pill Organizers and Dispensers
In this article we review 5 of the best smart Pill Organizers and Dispensers. But first, let’s understand a little more about the importance of taking you take medications regularly and on time and why you might benefit from these.
Medications should be taken as clearly prescribed by your doctor or healthcare professional, this is to ensure you have the correct amount of a particular drug in your body at the right time. If your medicine is not taken regularly/at the prescribed times the level of drugs in your system can become too low to work effectively. So, it’s really important that you’re able to successfully manage your different pills/prescriptions. Naturally, failure to do this could have a serious impact on your health, particularly for respiratory problems and chronic illnesses like cardiovascular diseases, epilepsy and hypertension.
Trying to remember which one to take, at which time can be difficult – not surprising when 1 in 9 US adults over 45 report memory issues (source: WebMD). The National Community Pharmacists Association calculated that missed medications were costing the US healthcare system an estimated $290 billion annually!
The Food and Drug Administration Agency website has an informative article titled “Are You Taking Medication as Prescribed?” which you might want to read for more information on this topic.
Pill Organizers and Dispensers: MeemawTech Key Criteria
Well-being
Not adhering to the medications prescribed by your doctor, or healthcare professional, can impede the ability of the drug to effectively treat your disease or condition. In many cases this could lead to bigger complications from the illness.
A Pill Organizer or Dispenser is a great way to help with the effective management of your medication, especially if you have to follow complex dosing schedules.
Independence
The Pill Organizers and Dispensers we review in this article aim to simplify what can be a confusing and complex routine. They can reduce the need to involve others in helping you manage your schedule effectively.
What’s more, they all have alarms, sound and light, to alert you when it’s time to take a particular medication.
Add this to device to other smart healthcare monitors and devices such as Blood Pressure Readers, EKG Electrocardiograms and Fingertip Pulse Oximeters and you can begin to proactively monitor and manage your health with the aid of smart consumer technology.
The Shortlist: Pill Organizers and Dispensers
Our selection of Pill Organizers and Dispensers include a range of features with budgets to suit everyone. All of them can provide at least 4 doses per day. Your choice will depend on the volume of pills you take daily and how complex your dosing schedule is. When we refer to the number of pills per slot – we’ve used standard aspirin pills as the reference size.
Check out our feature comparisons below:
LiveFine Automatic Pill Dispenser
LiveFine Automatic Pill Dispenser: Key Features
The LiveFine Automatic Pill Dispenser is from New Jersey based LiveFine who are primarily known for developing and selling assistive products such as pill dispensers, warmers and adjustable beds.
We’re looking at the Automatic Pill Dispenser – one of their more popular products.
It’s based around a 28 slot motorized carousel with a clear cover, and comes complete with 6 template discs, so you can choose from 1x, 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x or 6x doses per day – so great if you have any complex dosing requirements. As with all our pill organizers; this features a timer and alarms to help eliminate forgotten medication – you will be alerted up to 30 minutes in advance of your pills being due.
Each slot on the carousel can hold up to 18 small pills. It’s powered by 4 x AA batteries – which will last about 6 months. At the center of the dispenser is the LCD display, menu buttons, speaker for the audible alert (4 tones available) and red alert light. The display will power down after 10 minutes to conserve battery power.
To help prevent access to pills outside of prescribed times the unit is secured by a lock & key.
LiveFine Automatic Pill Dispenser: What’s in the Box
- LiveFine Automatic Pill Dispenser
- 6 x Template Discs
- Replacement tray
- 2 x Keys
- User manual
LiveFine Automatic Pill Dispenser: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Clear cover
- Replacement tray
- Large capacity slots – upto 18 pills in each
- Capable of complex dosing requirements (up to six a day)
- Lockable
- Multiple alarm tones and alerts – audible, visual or both
- Easy to follow instructions
- Great value price
Cons
- Can be a little awkward to remove pills without spilling other slots
- All pill slots are available when open
- Battery powered only
LiveFine Automatic Pill Dispenser: MeemawTech Key Criteria
Ease of use
If you’re familiar with your prescribed doses, then selecting the correct template disc for the LiveFine Automatic Pill Dispenser will be straightforward – and once this is in place following included instructions in the user manual to set the clock and add alarms for each dose takes time – when complete you’ll only have to revisit this task if your prescription or dosage changes.
For added peace of mind, you might want to keep a manual record for the first day or two to be confident the alerts have been correctly entered. Got stuck, need help? You can contact LiveFine customer support directly by email or phone.
- Motorized 28-Slot Carousel Rotates & Delivers Scheduled Medicine; Great for Seniors & Caregivers
- Audible & Visual Alerts Sound & Flash Up to 30 Minutes When Pills Are Due; Simply Flip & Remove Pills From Slot
- Multiple Templates Allow Up to 6 Alerts Per Day; Program Exact Dispense Time for Custom Treatment
MedReady 1700FL Medication Dispenser
MedReady 1700FL Medication Dispenser: Key Features
The MedReady 1700FL Medication Dispenser is from MedReady a company who specialize solely in automated medication dispensers. They claim that using one of their dispensers
“increases medication compliance up to 96.7% by virtually eliminating missed doses and overdosing medication.”
MedReady Inc.
It comes with a solid locking lid; and a dispenser that will only provide the most recent dosage – a great feature that helps prevent overdosing. The 28 slots can accommodate about 9 pills each, and the templates are designed at allow up to four doses per day. At the center of the dispenser is an easy to read backlit red LED display – the menu buttons can only be accessed when the cover is unlocked – this prevents accidentally pressing buttons/changing alerts.
The MedReady 1700FL Medication Dispenser is powered by an AC adaptor, but has the added benefit of a rechargeable battery backup. You will be alerted be with an audible alert – really loud at 90dB, so no excuses for missing it! and a visual bright flashing red led on the front of the unit.
MedReady 1700FL Medication Dispenser: What’s in the Box
- MedReady 1700FL Medication Dispenser
- A/C Adapter
- Rechargeable Battery
- Medication Tray
- Blue Locking Lid
- 2 x keys
- Loading rings for 3x and 4x per day dosing
MedReady 1700FL Medication Dispenser: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to remove pills from dispenser – no spillage
- Only current dosage is available
- Rechargeable battery & mains power
- Replacement tray
- Capable of custom dosing requirements (7 days up to four times a day dosing)
- Lockable
- Customer alert dutrations
- Feels sturdy
- Multiple alarm tones and alerts – audible, visual or both
- Loud 90dB alarm
- Easy to follow instructions
- Bright backlit LED display for visibility in all lighting conditions
Cons
- Medium sized slot – can hold about 9 small pills
- Some may prefer a clear cover to see whether all doses have been taken
- It dimensions are quite big
MedReady 1700FL Medication Dispenser: MeemawTech Key Criteria
Ease of use
Setup took a little time with the MedReady 1700FL Medication Dispenser – but it’s so important to do it correctly, follow the instructions carefully – and if you run into problems MedReady provide an Instructional Setup Video to help you. Still have problems, then you can contact their customer services by phone or email.
As with all pill dispensers I’d recommend keeping a manual record for the first day or two to be confident the alerts have been entered and pills dispensed correctly.
- Holds up to 28 doses
- Compartment holds up to 9 pills
- Includes AC adapter
e-Pill Station Locked Automatic Pill Dispenser
e-Pill Station Locked Automatic Pill Dispenser: Key Features
The e-Pill Station Locked Automatic Pill Dispenser is from Boston based e-pill Medication Reminders – another respected US based company that specializes in pill organizers and pill dispensers.
This is the first of two dispensers we’ve reviewed from e-Pill, and the most expensive in our showdown. We selected this device for those who might struggle with hand dexterity, or prefer to have their doses dispensed into the easy to use stainless steel cup.
“e-pill Medication Reminders are allowing baby boomers to continue to live independently in their own homes (Aging In Place) when facing health issues that would otherwise require assisted living or a more advanced care setting.”
Stefan Solvell, founder of e-pill, LLC
This premium dispenser has it all – the 28 slots accommodate about 15 pills each, and only the current dose will be dispensed into the cup at the pre-programmed time – with the cover locked the risk of overdosing is greatly reduced. Suitable for custom or complex dosing requirements.
Power from the included 4 AA batteries should last anywhere between 6 to 12 months depending on usage.
e-Pill Station Locked Automatic Pill Dispenser: What’s in the Box
- e-Pill Station
- Tipping station
- Filling guides
- Stainless steel dispensing cup
- Dosage template set
- 2 x Keys
- 4 x AA batteries
e-Pill Station Locked Automatic Pill Dispenser: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Large capacity slots – up to 15 pills each
- Tipper base – no more spillage
- Only current dosage is available
- Large stainless steel dispensing cup for ease of use
- Capable of complex dosing requirements (up to six a day)
- Lockable
- Custom alert durations
- 3 alarm tones
- Multiple alarm tones and alerts – audible, visual or both
- Easy to follow instructions
Cons
- Battery power only
- Expensive
- Audible alarm could be a little louder
e-Pill Station Locked Automatic Pill Dispenser: MeemawTech Key Criteria
Ease of use
Included are clear instructions providing a step-by-step guide to set up your e-Pill Station Locked Automatic Pill Dispenser. Take your time reading these. Keep a manual record for the first few days to be sure the dispenser alerts and doses have been correctly setup.
For support e-Pill can be contacted by phone, email and social media.
- NEVER FORGET OR DOUBLE DOSE: This locked automatic pill dispenser allows patients to take the correct medications at the correct time, significantly improving medication adherence. The tipper base and stainless-steel medicine cup allows for easy, no spill dispensing. No monthly fees.
- IDEAL FOR: This dispenser is great for patients who want to live independently or are residing in an assisted living facility. It also benefits caregivers who want a solution that provides an easy and accurate way for their loved ones to remember their medications. The included tipper and cup is best suited for those with limited dexterity or tremors but will benefit anyone who wants a convenient way to dispense and take their medications.
- FEATURES: Key locked lid, up to 6 daily alarms with sound and visual notification, low battery indicator.
e-Pill MedSmart Voice Plus
e-Pill MedSmart Voice Plus: Key Features
The e-Pill MedSmart Voice Plus is the second pill dispenser we’ve reviewed from Boston based e-pill Medication Reminders.
What differentiates this device is the ability to set up dosing schedules using a smartphone app – so perfect for anyone with very complex medications. The free smartphone companion app “LeBox” uses bluetooth to connect with the dispenser – when paired you can set the time and schedule doses easily. You can also choose to set the time and medication schedule on the device using the menu buttons and large LCD display. Note: your smartphone must be within 33 feet of the dispenser for the LeBox smartphone app to connect. Using the app really simplifies the setup process and any ongoing changes to your prescription/doses.
The dispenser is made of sturdy materials, and features grips for easy and secure handling.
It has a locked transparent lid and offers up to 6 daily alarms – the audible notification is a recorded voice announcing “It’s time for your medications” while lights flash on the device as a visual alert – a nice touch.
In common with e-Pill Station the Voice Plus comes with 28 slots and can be programmed with up to 6 daily alerts. The massive compartments can accommodate about 24 pills each. Only the current dose will be made available at the pre-programmed time – with the cover locked the risk of overdosing is reduced.
Power is provided by an AC adaptor or from the included 4 AA batteries when not plugged in (lasting up to 2 months).
“Pill management systems increase the rate of prescription adherence 78% to 95%, resulting in fewer hospital visits and significant cost savings for patients.”
e-Pill Medication Reminders
e-Pill MedSmart Voice Plus: What’s in the Box
- e-Pill MedSmart Voice Plus
- Tray
- Dosage Template Set
- 2 x Keys
- Power cord
- 4 x AA batteries
e-Pill MedSmart Voice Plus: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Secure hand grips
- Easy to remove pills from dispenser – no spillage
- Only current dosage is available
- Large easy to read LCD display
- Bluetooth connectivity
- LeBox smartphone app simplifies setting up
- Mains and battery power
- Voice announcements
- Huge compartments – hold up to 24 pills each
- Caregiver smart notifications (when subscribing to the Premium package).
Cons
- Expensive
- Alert durations are not adjustable
- You must pay a subscription to get historic reports and caregiver notifications,
e-Pill MedSmart Voice Plus: MeemawTech Key Criteria
Ease of use
You can setup your e-Pill MedSmart Voice Plus using the buttons on the center of the dispenser following the included clear instructions that provide a step-by-step guide. Or, for a better and simpler experience use the LeBox smartphone companion app – so much easier! Whichever option you use to setup your dispenser make sure to take your time reading the instructions, also, keep a manual record for the first day or two to ensure the dispenser alerts and doses have been correctly setup.
- NEVER FORGET OR DOUBLE DOSE: This locked automatic pill dispenser allows patients to take the correct medications at the correct time, significantly improving medication adherence. Its Bluetooth capabilities allows the patient or caregiver to setup the dispenser and review dosage records via a free iOS (iPhone) or Android app. No monthly fees.
- IDEAL FOR: This dispenser is great for patients who want to live independently or are residing in an assisted living facility. It also benefits caregivers who want a solution that provides an easy and accurate way for their loved ones to remember their medications.
- FEATURES: Key locked lid, up to 9 daily alarms with voice notification “It's time for your medications” and blinking lights, 2 months of battery life, low battery warning. Bluetooth enabled, use your smartphone to setup the dispenser and to review dosage records. The dispenser will always dispense at the set times, but due to the technical limitations of Bluetooth, the smartphone must be within 33 feet of the dispenser to take advantage of the app’s capabilities.
EllieGrid Smart Pill Box
EllieGrid Smart Pill Box: Key Features
The EllieGrid Smart Pill Box is the brainchild of Regina Vatterott. In 2019 Regina underwent multiple brain surgeries. During rehabilitation she was on a variety of complex dosing schedules. She was not happy with the traditional pill boxes – so decided to design one of her own – “Ellie”.
This device is quite different to the others on review here: –
- It does not dispense pills from individual slots
- It does not lock
- It relies on you using the mobile app and smartphone for notifications
Once programmed and pills have been added to the compartments, you will be alerted by smartphone app notifications; the lights on the pill box will indicate which compartment and how many pills to take – a very clever but simple approach. It’s powered by a rechargeable Li-Ion Battery which will give you several weeks of charge depending on usage/pill schedule.
If you you take your medication early/late Ellie will automatically adjust notifications to alert you at a more convenient time. And having alerts come through on your smartphone may be more convenient than needing to be in earshot of a device alarm or see the flashing lights.
I think it looks and feels more like an Apple product – not a medication / pill dispenser. Maybe more appealing to a younger generation.
Free EllieGrid App features:-
- Program alarms
- Receive a notification when it is time to take pills
- Receive notifications when pills are running low
- Smart alarms (use sensors on pill box to adjust to your schedule)
- Adjust pill box settings
- Program alarms for pills that are not in the pill box
- Access compliance report for the current day
Two additional subscription services are also offered providing additional features: –
- Access compliance reports for previous days
- Caregiver notifications
EllieGrid Smart Pill Box: What’s in the Box
- EllieGrid Smart Pill Box
- USB Charging cable
- USB Adaptor plug
- Instruction manual
EllieGrid Smart Pill Box: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Modern sleek design
- Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery
- “Follow the lights” doses
- Smartphone notifications
- Accommodates 7 different medications
- Each of the 7 compartments can hold an entire bottle of small pills or a week’s worth of large ones
- Early/late smart alarms
- Battery test
- Soft touch plastic
Cons
- Not lockable
- Cannot be used without a smartphone and companion app
EllieGrid Smart Pill Box: MeemawTech Key Criteria
Ease of use
The EllieGrid Smart Pill Box was our clear winner in terms of setup and ease of use, not only is the app setup intuitive, but there are also plenty of instructional videos on their website to help you program alarms, take pills, edit information, adjust volume, connect bluetooth, skip dose, check battery & red light error.
However, this may only be a real benefit to users who are more comfortable with smart technology – but a fantastic option if you are.
- SMART ALARMS (PATENT PENDING): Do you sometimes take your pills early or late? Do you take your pills at different times on the weekend? No worries! Enable smart alarms and Ellie will use hall effect sensors and machine learning to adjust alarms to your schedule.
- MORE EFFECTIVE PILL MANAGEMENT: Organize your pills in just seconds, receive notifications whenever it is time to take your pills, and keep track of your compliance over time.
- FITS 30 DAYS WORTH OF MEDICATIONS: Each small compartment fits an entire bottle of small pills and each large compartment can fit 7 large pills.
Conclusion
The two that stood out for us were the LiveFine Automatic Pill Dispenser – great value and performed all the basics, and the e-Pill Station Locked Automatic Pill Dispenser – perfect for anyone with dexterity issues.
Having said that (and being a bit of a geek!) I would personally go for the EllieGrid Smart Pill Box – I love the materials, simplicity and app interface, unfortunately the lack of any locking mechanism and the need to rely on a smartphone may put some folk off.