Freshman engineers from Rice University have developed a 3D-printed capsule equipped with two sealed chambers, one filled with ammonium nitrate, and the other with water.
The idea behind the capsule is to act similarly to an ice pack or rubbing alcohol, in an effort to make needles and injections less painful without the use of drugs.
By twisting the capsule, the ingredients inside mix, creating a chemical reaction capable of numbing a patient’s skin in as little as 1 minute after it is applied.
That’s it! Wait 60 seconds, you become numb, and ready for whatever needle or shot you have been dreading.
The science behind the idea is not new. However, the potential applications for the premise are, which include being integrated into the caps of the sterile disposable needles used in hospitals around the world.
Specifically, it would be great for little children who can instantly experience numb skin and far less painful and intimidating shots.
