Injection device accessories including needle cap grips

Abstract

An attachment (200) for an injection device (100) having a needle cap (190). The attachment (200) comprises a body portion (202) having a recess (220) adapted to receive the injection device (100), and a cover (204) coupled to the body portion (202). The cover (204) is pivotable between an open position in which the recess (220) is exposed to receive the injection device (100) and a closed position in which the cover (204) at least partially closes the recess (220) to retain the injection device (100) on the body portion (202). The attachment (200) further comprises an uncapping device (234) having gripping portions, the uncapping device (234) having an expanded configuration that allows the needle cap (190) to pass therethrough and a retracted configuration in which the gripping portions retain the needle cap (190) and at least partially remove the needle cap from the injection device.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to accessories for injection devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Needle safety devices are commonly used in conjunction with syringes when administering injections to reduce the risk of accidental needle sticks that could result in the transmission of bloodborne pathogens. These needle safety devices are typically required to protect Health Care Providers (HCPs), such as nurses, who often use syringes to administer injections to patients. Needle safety devices can typically be categorized as one of two types: (1) passive devices that automatically cover the needle after an injection without requiring additional steps from the user to activate the device, and (2) devices that require additional steps by the user to activate a needle safety feature.

[0003] Because, for a variety of reasons, users may fail to take the additional action required to activate a non-passive device, needle safety devices are generally considered superior in their ability to protect users from accidental needle sticks. Health care organizations and systems often require the use of needle safety devices in situations where HCPs administer injections. Additionally, needle safety devices are desirable for self-administered and caregiver-administered injections to reduce the risk of injury, infection, and spread of blood-borne pathogens to the patient, family members, caregivers, and any person who comes into contact with the injection device during the process of administering the injection and disposal of the used syringe.

[0004] A commonly used example of a needle safety device is the UltraSafe™ family of devices manufactured by Becton Dickinson. UltraSafe™ consists of two plastic components and a spring that are assembled into a syringe along with a custom plunger rod. Once the injection is complete, the plunger rod engages a latch on the UltraSafe™ housing component, moving the device so that the spring extends and locks one of the housing components over the needle into a locked out position. An example of an UltraSafe™ device is shown in Figures 1A and 1B.

[0005] Figure 1A shows the device in a ready-to-use or pre-injection position before an injection has been administered, and Figure 1B shows the device in a safe, ready-to-use or locked-out position after an injection has been completed.

[0006] Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D show typical instructions for using the UltraSafe™ device. As shown, the steps for using the UltraSafe™ are essentially the same as for making an injection with a bare syringe. Pinching the skin and injecting at a 45 degree angle is essential to limit the depth of the injection, ensuring that the injection is subcutaneous and not administered intramuscularly (too deep) or intradermally (into the skin). Injecting too shallow or too deep can affect the pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of drugs intended for subcutaneous injection.

[0007] As shown in Figures 2A-2D, the process for properly using a syringe to achieve a subcutaneous injection is complex and varies from user to user, which may result in differences in injection depth and affect the efficacy of the drug. HCPs, such as nurses, are familiar with and trained in the technique of administering injections with a syringe. However, techniques vary from nurse to nurse, which may affect PK and PD. Furthermore, typical injection techniques require the use of both hands, one-handed pinch and one-handed injection, which makes it difficult for nurses to administer injections to difficult patients, such as children, who may move during the injection. Furthermore, even if a nurse has no problem using a syringe, patients are often scared of the syringe and needle, which often makes the injection an unpleasant experience for the patient.

[0008] Syringes such as UltraSafe™ can be particularly difficult for patients and caregivers to use, not only because the process is complicated, but also because syringes with exposed needles tend to cause anxiety to patients. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] Therefore, there is a need to develop accessories that allow easier operation of needle safety devices, such as UltraSafe™. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In one aspect of the invention, an accessory for an injection device having a needle cap is provided, the accessory comprising: a body portion having a recess adapted to receive the injection device; a cover connected to the body portion, the cover pivotable between an open position in which the recess is exposed to receive the injection device and a closed position in which the cover at least partially closes the recess to hold the injection device on the body portion; and an uncapping device having grippers having an extended configuration allowing the needle cap to pass between the grippers and a retracted configuration in which the grippers hold the needle cap to at least partially remove it from the injection device, the cover and the uncapping device being operably coupled to each other such that when the cover is moved from the open position towards the closed position the uncapping device transitions from the extended configuration to the retracted configuration.

[0011] In this way, the injection device can be loaded into the attachment without the handle interfering with the needle cap, and then when the cover is closed the handle closes on the needle cap to automatically remove it, and after the cover has been removed the handle opens again to release the cover so that it can be separated from the attachment.

[0012] In another aspect of the invention, there is provided an attachment for an injection device having a needle cap comprising: a body portion having a recess adapted to receive the injection device; a cover coupled to the body portion, the cover pivotable between an open position in which the recess is exposed to receive the injection device and a closed position in which the cover at least partially closes the recess to hold the injection device on the body portion; and an uncapping device having a gripper adapted to hold the needle cap, the uncapping device being movable relative to the body portion, the cover having a proximal end adapted to be moved by a user to move the cover from the open position to a closed position, and a distal end adapted to move the gripper towards an end of the attachment to at least partially remove the needle cap from the injection device when the cover is moved from the open position to the closed position.

[0013] In this manner, the needle cap can be automatically removed upon closure of the cover. This is accomplished by the cover acting as a lever to move the uncapping device and remove the needle cap. This provides a simple and reliable mechanism for removing the needle cover in a manner that users with less dexterity find easy. Additionally, the cover provides a mechanical advantage for moving the uncapping device to reduce the amount of force required to be provided by the user.

[0014] In another aspect of the invention, there is provided an attachment for an injection device having a safety shield, at least one flange adapted to enable a user to grip the injection device, and a syringe sheath movable relative to the at least one flange from a pre-injection position to a locked out position, the attachment comprising a body portion including a recess adapted to receive the safety shield of the injection device and a slot adapted to receive the at least one flange of the injection device, and a cover coupled to the body portion, the cover being pivotable between an open position in which the recess and slot are exposed to receive the safety shield and flange, respectively, of the injection device, and a closed position in which the recess and slot are at least partially closed to retain the injection device on the body portion, the slot being shaped to resist distal and proximal movement of the at least one flange relative to the body portion and to allow the syringe sheath to move proximally relative to the body portion from the pre-injection position to the locked out position.

[0015] In this way, the cover can be opened so that the recess and slot can be more easily accessed. When the cover is then closed, the slot holds the flange in place but the syringe sheath is free to move and thus not interfere with the function of the injection device.

[0016] In another aspect of the invention, there is provided an attachment for an injection device having a needle cap comprising: a body portion having a recess adapted to receive the injection device; a cover coupled to the body portion, the cover pivotable between an open position in which the recess is exposed to receive the injection device and a closed position in which the cover at least partially closes the recess to hold the injection device on the body portion; and an uncapping device having a gripping portion adapted to hold the needle cap, the uncapping device being axially movable relative to the body portion from an initial position to an advanced position to remove the needle cap from the injection device, the body portion comprising a track, the uncapping device being internally disposed for axial movement relative to the body portion, the track being adapted such that the uncapping device is held against the track by the injection device when the injection device is located on the body portion.

[0017] In this way, the injection device performs the function of retaining the needle uncapping device in the track, thereby avoiding the need for additional components and simplifying design and manufacture.

[0018] The needle cap (also often referred to as a "needle boot" or "needle shield") may be a rigid or non-rigid needle cap. A rigid needle cap may be formed of at least two components, for example, a rigid outer shell and an inner body that surrounds the needle on the syringe when in place. The inner body may be a soft, elastic, or flexible inner body. The inner body may be a rubber inner body. Alternatively, a non-rigid needle cap may be used, in which case the needle cap may be a single soft, elastic, or flexible body, for example, a rubberized needle boot. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0019] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings, in which: [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the injection device in a ready-to-use state prior to use. [Figure 1B] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the injection device in a safe, locked-out state. [Figure 2A] 2 is an example of a side view showing a typical use of the injection device of FIG. 1. [Figure 2B] 2 is an example of a side view showing a typical use of the injection device of FIG. 1. [Figure 2C] 2 is an example of a side view showing a typical use of the injection device of FIG. 1. [Figure 2D] 2 is an example of a side view showing a typical use of the injection device of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an attachment for an injection device, the attachment being in a closed configuration. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the accessory in an open configuration. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the attachment in an open configuration with an injection device within the attachment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the attachment in a closed configuration with an injection device within the attachment. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is an internal view of the injection device and attachment without the cover. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the cap remover and cover of the accessory in an open position, with the body portion not shown. [Figure 9] 4 is a further enlarged perspective view of the cap remover and cover, with the body portion not shown; FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a further perspective view of the attachment in an open configuration, with the injection device within the attachment; [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the cap remover and cover in a closed position, with the body portion not shown. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the base of the accessory. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is an internal view of the main body portion of the accessory. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a plan view of an accessory decapper. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a further perspective view of the main body portion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] 1A-1B show a manual injection device 100 suitable for use in the accessory of the present disclosure. The injection device 100 comprises a syringe 110 extending from a proximal end comprising a needle 130 to an open distal end. The open distal end of the syringe is sealed by a stopper 140. A needle cap 190 is provided over the needle 130.

[0021] Syringe 110 is secured within syringe sheath 120 by syringe locking element 125. Syringe locking element 125 may include diametrically opposed abutment surfaces between which a flange of a standard syringe is constrained. Constraining the flange between the abutment surfaces prevents movement of syringe 110 relative to syringe sheath 120.

[0022] The syringe sheath 120 includes an open distal end into which the syringe 110 can be inserted, and an open proximal end from which the needle 130 extends when the syringe 110 is secured within the sheath 120. A safety shield 150 is movably mounted relative to the syringe sheath 120. The safety shield 150 is movable between a retracted position (shown in FIG. 1A ) in which the needle 130 extends beyond the proximal end of the safety shield, and an extended position (shown in FIG. 1B ) in which the safety shield extends beyond the proximal end of the needle 130. In the second position, shown in FIG. 1B , the needle 130 is covered by the safety shield 150, thereby shielding the user from the needle and preventing accidental needle stick injuries.

[0023] To allow a user to grip the injection device 100 with a conventional dart grip (shown in FIG. 2), the safety shield 150 includes a flange 155 at or toward its distal end. The flange 155 shown in FIG. 1 extends from the safety shield 150.

[0024] Safety shield 150 is biased toward its extended position relative to syringe sheath 120 (shown in FIG. 1B) by biasing element 160. Biasing element 160 shown in FIGs. 1A-1B takes the form of a coil spring that is disposed between syringe sheath 120 and safety shield 150, thus biasing safety shield 150 proximally relative to syringe sheath 120 toward its extended position.

[0025] A releasable locking mechanism 180 holds the safety shield 150 in its retracted position relative to the syringe sheath 120. The locking mechanism 180 is movable between a locked position (FIG. 1A) in which the locking mechanism 180 prevents the safety shield 150 from moving relative to the syringe sheath 120, and an unlocked position in which the locking mechanism 180 no longer prevents the safety shield 150 from moving relative to the syringe sheath 120. Once the locking mechanism is moved to its unlocked position, the safety shield 150 moves under the influence of the coil spring 160 toward its extended position (FIG. 1B).

[0026] 1A-1B, the locking mechanism 180 between the safety shield 150 and the syringe sheath 120 takes the form of a pair of flexible latch arms 181 provided on the safety shield 150 which engage opposing latch surfaces 183 on the syringe sheath 120. The flexible latch arms 181 are biased to a first position in which they engage their respective latch surfaces 183, thus preventing proximal movement of the safety shield 150 relative to the syringe sheath 120. When the flexible latch arms 181 are moved against this bias, the latch arms 181 disengage their respective latch surfaces 183, thus allowing proximal movement of the safety shield 150 relative to the syringe sheath 120.

[0027] The latch arms 181 are configured to be moved from a first position to a second position by the plunger rod 170. The plunger rod 170 comprises an elongate member configured to engage the bung 140 at its proximal end to move the bung 140 proximally along the longitudinal axis of the syringe body to deliver a dose of medicament from the needle 130. At or towards its distal end, the plunger rod 170 is provided with an actuation surface 175 against which a user can place a thumb or finger to actuate the plunger rod 170 in a proximal direction to deliver an injection. As the plunger rod 170 approaches or reaches the end of its travel within the syringe body, the actuation surface 175 of the plunger rod 170 deflects the flexible latch arms 181 outwardly to a position where they no longer engage the latch surfaces 183 on the syringe sheath 120. The locking mechanism is thus released at the injection end and the safety shield 150 moves to its extended position.

[0028] Although not visible in the accompanying drawings, the manual injection device of FIGS. 1A-1B may further include a safety lock for locking the safety shield 150 in its extended position after an injection is completed.

[0029] 3, there is an accessory 200 for use with an injection device 100, such as an UltraSafe™ device. The accessory 200 is described herein using the UltraSafe™ as a specific example of an injection device 100. However, the accessory 200 may be used with other injection devices other than the UltraSafe™ device. For example, the accessory may be used with an UltraSafe Plus™ device. The structure of the accessory 200 may be modified to match the form factor of any suitable injection device.

[0030] The attachment 200 includes a body portion 202 and a cover 204. The attachment 200 has a distal end 206 for being positioned toward or over an injection site when performing an injection, and a proximal end 208 opposite the distal end 206. The attachment 200 includes a window 210 in the cover 204. There is also another window in the body 202 on the opposite side of the attachment 200.

[0031] 4, the cover 204 is coupled to the body portion 202. Specifically, the cover 204 is pivotally coupled to the body portion 202 about a pair of pivots 216, one each toward each side of the attachment 200. Each pivot 216 includes an opening 218 in the body portion 202 through which a protrusion 203 in the cover 204 passes. Alternatively, the protrusion 203 may be located in the body portion 202 and the opening 218 may be located in the cover 204. The protrusions 203 are shown in more detail in FIGS. 8 and 9. The protrusions 203 are rotatable within the openings 218, which allows the cover 204 to rotate relative to the body portion 202. In this manner, the cover 204 is movable between an open position, which is the position shown in FIG. 4, and a closed position, which is the position shown in FIG. 3.

[0032] The openings 218 of each pivot 216 are provided on a resilient mounting member 217 connected to the body portion 202. In this example, the resilient mounting member 217 is integrally formed with the body portion 202. The resilient mounting member 217 is arranged to bend relative to the body portion 202 so that the cover 204 can be inserted between the pivots 216. This simplifies the assembly process. In addition, each protrusion 203 on the cover 204 has a longitudinal surface and a side surface. The side surface is inclined relative to the longitudinal surface. In other words, the side surface is not perpendicular to the longitudinal surface. In this way, the protrusions assist the bending of the resilient mounting member 217 when the cover 204 is attached to the body portion 202.

[0033] The body portion 202 includes a recess 220 for receiving the injection device 100. Figure 5 shows the injection device 100 positioned within the recess 220, with the length of the safety shield 150 positioned longitudinally within the recess 220. Referring again to Figure 4, the body portion 202 also includes a slot 222. The length of the slot 222 is disposed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the attachment 200. The slot 222 is adapted to receive the flange 155 of the injection device 100, as shown in Figure 5.

[0034] When the cover 204 is in the open position, the recess 220 and slot 222 are exposed to receive the injection device 100. Specifically, the recess 220 receives the safety shield 150 and the slot 222 receives the flange 155. As shown in FIG. 6 , once the injection device 100 is positioned within the recess 220 and slot 222, the cover 204 is moved from the open position to the closed position. The injection device 100 and the accessory 200 are then ready to perform an injection. A user can place the accessory 200 containing the injection device at an injection site, e.g., on the skin, and actuate the actuation surface 175 with one hand to perform an injection in a safe, simple and reliable manner.

[0035] When the cover 204 is in the closed position, the cover 204 closes the recess 220 and the slot 222 to retain the injection device 100 in the body portion 202. When the injection device 100 is retained within the attachment 200 by the cover 204 and the body portion 202, the injection device 100 is visible through each of the windows 210 on each side of the attachment 200. This allows a user to inspect the contents of the syringe before performing an injection.

[0036] 4 and 5, the slot 222 is shaped to resist movement of the flange 155 towards the distal end 206 of the attachment 200. In other words, the slot 222 is shaped to prevent the flange 155 from moving in a distal direction. The slot 222 is also shaped to resist movement of the flange 155 towards the proximal end 208 of the attachment 200. In other words, the slot 222 is shaped to prevent the flange 155 from moving in a proximal direction. However, the slot 222 is shaped to allow the syringe sheath 120 of the injection device 100 to move in a proximal direction relative to the body portion 202. This allows the injection device 100 to move from the pre-injection position to the locked out position as described above. In this particular embodiment, there is a cavity formed in the body portion 202 and the cover 204 through which the syringe sheath can move. However, the width of the cavity does not allow the flange 155 to move through the cavity, and thus the flange 155 is retained within the slot 222 while the cover 204 is in the closed position.

[0037] Referring again to FIG. 3, the body portion 202 and the cover 204 are joined together to form a pair of opposing sides. The right side 212 is shown in FIG. 3. The opposing left side is not shown, but is a mirror image of the right side 212. The attachment 200 comprises a pair of opposing faces. The front side 214 is shown in FIG. 3. The opposing back side is not shown. The opposing faces each have a similar surface area, and each has a larger surface area than its respective opposing side. The cover 204 forms a portion of the front side 214, and the body portion 202 forms the back side. These faces and sides connect the distal end 206 of the attachment 200 with the proximal end 208 of the attachment 200.

[0038] The injection device 100 is positioned in the recess 220 by lowering the injection device 100 at an angle into the recess 220. The direction in which the injection device 100 is moved towards the attachment 200 so that the injection device 100 is positioned in the recess 220 has a component in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the attachment 200 and a component in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the attachment 200. This direction extends towards the rear of the body portion 202. In particular, the slot 222 and the recess 220 each have an open face that is parallel to the face of the attachment 200 on which the injection device 100 is lowered. Since the face of the attachment 200 has a larger surface area than the side, this presents a larger area for the user to target when positioning the injection device 100 in the attachment 200. This allows users, especially those with dexterity issues, to position the injection device 100 more easily.

[0039] 4, the slot 222 comprises a pair of distal abutment portions 224 on either side of the body portion 202. The distal abutment portions 224 are fixed to the body portion 202, and each one of the distal abutment portions 224 resists a respective one of the flanges 155 from moving in the distal direction. The distal abutment portions 224 are each integrally formed with the body portion 202, providing a secure connection that is simple to manufacture. However, the body portion 202 may be a modular part in which the distal abutment portions 224 are removable from the body portion 202. Each distal abutment portion 224 has a flat upper surface that extends into a curved lower surface. This mirrors the shape of the outer surface of the lower part of the flange and helps to secure the injection device 100 to the body portion 202.

[0040] The slot 222 also includes a pair of proximal abutment portions 226. The proximal abutment portions 226 are fixed to the body portion 202, with each one of the proximal abutment portions 226 resisting movement of a respective one of the flanges 155 in a proximal direction. The proximal abutment portions 226 are each integrally formed with the body portion 202, providing a secure connection that is simple to manufacture. However, the body portion 202 may be a modular piece in which the proximal abutment portions 226 are removable from the body portion 202. Each of the proximal abutments 226 has a flat lower surface for interacting with an upper surface of a respective one of the flanges 155. The proximal abutments 226 are spaced apart from one another to form a cavity through which the syringe sheath 120 can move.

[0041] With reference to FIG. 4, the cover 204 has a cover slot 228. The cover slot 228 is arranged to retain the flange 155 when the cover 204 moves from the open position shown in FIG. 4 to the closed position shown in FIG. 6. The cover slot 228 is shaped to resist movement of the flange 155 towards the distal end 206 of the attachment 200 when the cover 204 is in the closed position. In other words, the cover slot 228 is shaped to prevent the flange 155 from moving in a distal direction. The cover slot 228 is also shaped to resist movement of the flange 155 towards the proximal end 208 of the attachment 200. In other words, the cover slot 228 is shaped to prevent the flange 155 from moving in a proximal direction. However, the cover slot 228 is shaped to allow the syringe sheath 120 of the injection device 100 to move in a proximal direction relative to the body portion 202. This allows the injection device 100 to move from the pre-injection position to the locked out position as described above. In this particular example, cover slot 228 cooperates with slot 222 in body portion 202 to form a cavity through which syringe sheath 120 can move. However, the width of the cavity is such that flange 155 cannot move through the cavity, and thus flange 155 is retained within cover slot 228 while cover 204 is in the closed position.

[0042] The cover slot 228 also includes a pair of distal abutment portions 230 on either side of the cover 204. The distal abutment portions 230 are fixed to the cover 204, with each one of the distal abutment portions 230 resisting a respective one of the flanges 155 from moving in a distal direction. The distal abutment portions 230 are each integrally formed with the cover 204, providing a secure connection that is simple to manufacture. However, the cover 204 may be a modular piece in which the distal abutment portions 230 are removable from the cover 204. As shown in FIG. 4, each distal abutment portion 230 includes a rib that extends along the length of the cover 204, thus providing structural support to the cover 204.

[0043] The cover slots 228 also include a pair of proximal abutment portions 232. The proximal abutment portions 232 are fixed to the cover 204, with each one of the proximal abutment portions 232 resisting movement of a respective one of the flanges 155 in the proximal direction. The proximal abutment portions 232 are each integrally formed with the cover 204, providing a secure connection that is simple to manufacture. However, the cover 204 may be a modular component in which the proximal abutment portions 232 are removable from the cover 204.

[0044] 7 and 8, the accessory 200 comprises an uncapping device 234 for removing the needle cap 190 from the injection device 100. The uncapping device 234 comprises, in this example, a pair of movable elements 236, each having a gripping end for interacting with the needle cap 190. Each one of the gripping ends is shaped to match the outer surface of the needle cap 190. Each gripping end has a concave end for mating with the cylindrical contour of the needle cap 190. In this example, the movable elements 236 are integrally formed with the uncapping device 234. However, the movable elements 236 may be provided as separate components that flex or rotate relative to the uncapping device 234. For example, each movable element 236 may be attached to the uncapping device 234 about a pivot. The needle cap 190 may be a rigid or non-rigid needle cap. The rigid needle cap may be formed of at least two components, for example, a rigid outer shell and an inner body that surrounds the needle 130 on the syringe 110 when in place. The inner body may be a soft, elastic, or flexible inner body. This inner body may be a rubber inner body. Alternatively, a non-rigid needle cap may be used, in which case the needle cap may be a single soft, elastic, or flexible body, for example a rubberized needle boot. In the case of a non-rigid needle cap, the uncapping device 234 is adapted to elastically grip the non-rigid needle cap, for example between a pair of movable elements 236, during uncapping. Because the cap is non-rigid, it deforms within the uncapping device 234, particularly within the gripping portion, such that the gripping portion is snug and tight, thus ensuring that uncapping is achieved.

[0045] In this example, the uncapping device 234 has an extended configuration (as shown in FIG. 8 ) and a retracted configuration (not shown). In the extended configuration, the uncapping device 234 does not interact with the needle cap 190. Specifically, the needle cap 190 can pass through or through the movable element 236 when the uncapping device 234 is in the extended configuration, such as when the injection device 100 is inserted into the recess 220. In the retracted configuration, the uncapping device 234 holds the needle cap 190 such that the uncapping device 234 can remove the needle cap 190 from the injection device 100. Specifically, the movable elements 236 move towards each other to assume the retracted configuration in which the uncapping device 234 grips the needle cap 190 via the gripping end. When the cover 204 is in the open position, the uncapping device 234 is in the extended position. Closing the cover 204 causes the uncapping device 234 to assume a contracted configuration as it slides forward to remove the needle cap 190. However, the uncapping device 234 again assumes an expanded configuration to release the needle cap 190 when the cover 204 is fully closed (as shown in FIG. 6 ).

[0046] In this particular example, the gripper has two configurations: an extended configuration and a retracted configuration. However, in another example, the gripper may be in the retracted configuration by default. In this case, the gripper holds the needle cap 190 when the injection device 100 is placed in the attachment 200, and no transition from the extended configuration to the retracted configuration is necessary. This option may be easier to manufacture. However, once the gripper is in the extended configuration, the injection device 100 can be inserted into the attachment 200 without resistance from the gripper. In another example, the gripper may only comprise one movable element that pushes the needle cap towards a non-movable element.

[0047] The uncapping device 234 includes a pair of guides 240 each disposed to locate within a track of the body portion 202. The uncapping device 234 is disposed to slide within the track of the body portion 202.

[0048] 9 and 10, the uncapping device 234 includes a pair of uncapping device slots 242, each located on one side of the uncapping device 234. The cover 204 includes a proximal end 244 that can be moved by a user to move the cover 204 from an open position to a closed position. The cover 204 also includes a distal end 246 operably coupled to the uncapping device 234 to move the gripper including the uncapping device 234 and the movable element 236 in a distal direction.

[0049] In this example, there is a pair of distal ends 246 of the cover 204, each with a cover cam 243 that is located within one of the uncapping device slots 242. In this manner, each distal end 246 mates with a respective one of the uncapping device slots 242 to distally translate the uncapping device 234 as the cover 204 pivots from the open position to the closed position. FIG. 11 shows the cover 204 in the closed position, with the uncapping device 234 moved distally.

[0050] 9, the cover 204 includes a pair of distal extensions, each extending distally away from a respective pivot 216. The distal end 246 and cover cam 243 are provided on the distal extensions. There are a pair of proximal extensions, each corresponding to one of the distal extensions. Each proximal extension extends proximally away from a respective pivot 216, thereby forming two sides of the proximal end 244 of the cover 204.

[0051] Each proximal extension is longer than each distal extension, which helps provide a mechanical advantage with respect to pivot 216, thus making it easier to close cover 204. This motion is particularly important as it also moves uncapping device 234 distally to remove needle cap 190.

[0052] 8 and 14, each one of the movable elements 236 of the gripper is made of a flexible elastic material, which allows the gripper to transition between an expanded configuration in which the needle cap 190 can pass between the gripper and a contracted configuration in which the gripper holds the needle cap 190 for removing the needle cap 190 from the injection device 100. An uncapping device cam 248 is present on an outer surface of each one of the movable elements 236. Each uncapping device cam 248 interfaces with an uncapping device cam surface 250 of the body portion 202 when the uncapping device 234 is moved distally by the cover 204. The uncapping device cam surface 250 is shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. The uncapping device 234 also includes a pair of receiving slots, each adapted to receive at least a portion of the cover 204 when the cover 204 is in the closed position.

[0053] The uncapper cam 248 is forced against the uncapper cam surface 250, causing the uncapper 234 to advance in a distal direction. This causes the movable elements 236 to push towards each other to transition the grippers from an extended configuration to a contracted configuration. Thus, when the injection device 100 is within the recess 200, the movable elements 236 grip the needle cap 190. At the same time, the uncapper 234 is moved in a distal direction, thus pulling the needle cap 190 distally and away from the injection device 100. This removes the needle cap 190 from the injection device 100.

[0054] 12 and 13, each one of the uncapper cam surfaces 250 is shaped such that the gripper transitions from an extended configuration to a contracted configuration and back to the extended configuration as the cover 204 moves from the open position to the fully closed position. In this example, each one of the uncapper cam surfaces 250 has a proximal end 252 and a distal end 254 that do not interact with a respective one of the uncapper cams 248, and an intermediate portion 256 positioned to interact with a respective one of the uncapper cams 248 to move the movable element 236 as the uncapper 234 moves distally.

[0055] Figure 8 shows the cover 204 in a fully open position with the cam removal device 234 in an extended configuration, and Figure 12 shows the cover 204 in a fully closed position with the cam removal device moving from the retracted configuration back to the extended configuration as the cover 204 moves from the fully open position to the fully closed position.

[0056] 15, the body portion 202 includes a pair of tracks 258 for receiving respective guides 240 of the uncapping device 234. Each track 258 is adapted to prevent the uncapping device 234 from slipping out of the track when the injection device 100 is located in the body portion 202. This is shown in FIG. 10. Specifically, the injection device 100 retains an uncapping device 234 in each track 258 when the injection device 100 is in the recess 220.

[0057] Each track 258 is configured to allow the uncapping device 234 to move in a direction having a component that is perpendicular to the axial direction (i.e., a longitudinal direction extending from the proximal end 208 to the distal end 206 of the attachment 200) when the injection device 100 is not positioned in the body portion 202. However, when the injection device 100 is positioned in the body portion 202, the uncapping device 234 is pressed against each track 258 by the injection device 100, such that the uncapping device 234 is only slidable axially relative to the body portion 202.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 7 , each track exposes at least a portion of the uncapping device 234 such that the injection device 100 at least partially retains the uncapping device 234 in the track 258 when the injection device 100 is positioned in the recess 220. As shown in FIG. 10 , each track 258 exposes the uncapping device 234 because the track 258 does not include a means adapted to contact an upper surface of the uncapping device 234. In other words, the body portion 202 does not have a lip or other such retaining means for retaining the uncapping device 234 on the body portion 202. Instead, the injection device 100 retains the uncapping device 234 in the track 258. Specifically, the uncapping device 234 directly contacts the injection device 100 when the injection device 100 is positioned in the recess 220. This simplifies the design of the accessory 200.

[0059] 15, each track 258 includes a base 260 and a pair of side walls 264, 266 adapted to guide respective sides of the uncapping device 234. In this example, the pair of side walls 264, 266 are integrally formed with the body portion 202. However, in another example, one or both of the side walls 264, 266 are separate components from the body portion 202. A first one of the side walls 266 of each track 258 defines a wall of a window 268 through which the injection device 100 can be viewed when the injection device 100 is within the attachment 200. A second one of the side walls 264 of each track 258 defines an outer side wall of the attachment 200. The base 260 and / or the side walls 264, 266 of each track 248 are integrally formed with the body portion 202.

[0060] The above features of the accessory 200 result in an inexpensive, simple and easy to use accessory 200. In addition, the accessory 200 can be operated with one hand to perform an injection using the injection device 100.

[0061] In use, the injection device is adapted to inject an antibody (monoclonal antibody, ustekinumab, golimumab, infliximab, guselkumab, sirukumab, adalimumab, rituximab, tocilizumab, centlizumab, centlizumab pegol, sarilumab, secukinumab, ixekizumab, or the like) for use in the treatment or prevention of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, ulcerative colitis, hormone deficiency, poisoning, pain, thrombosis, infection, diabetes, diabetic retinopathy, acute coronary syndrome, angina, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, cancer, macular degeneration, allergy, hay fever, inflammation, anemia, or myelodysplasia, or for use in the development of protective immunity. The infusion device may contain and be used to deliver substances such as erythropoietin, ... For example, it is known that anti-allergy agents are effective for use in the treatment or prevention of allergies, antihistamines are effective for use in the treatment or prevention of hay fever, anti-inflammatory agents are effective for use in the treatment or prevention of inflammation, etc. Thus, the selection of any one or more of the agents listed herein or in the claims for use in the treatment or prevention of one or more conditions for which the agent(s) are known to be effective is contemplated.However, in certain embodiments, golimumab is known to be effective for use in the treatment or prevention of one or more of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, or ulcerative colitis, or any combination of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and ulcerative colitis, or all of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and ulcerative colitis.

[0062] Golimumab may optionally be used in combination with one or more inactive ingredients, such as any or all of L-histidine, L-histidine monohydrochloride monohydrate, sorbitol, polysorbate 80, and water. Golimumab may be present in a composition in which it is the only active ingredient. For example, golimumab may be administered as SIMPONI®.

[0063] The term "comprising" encompasses "including" as well as "consisting", e.g., a composition "comprising" X may consist exclusively of X or may include some additional components, e.g., X+Y. Unless otherwise indicated, each embodiment described herein may be combined with other embodiments described herein. In certain examples above, specific pairs of components are provided to achieve certain functions. However, it is possible to achieve these functions using at least one of these components.

[0064] It will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one embodiment or to several embodiments. The embodiments are not limited to those that solve any or all of the stated problems or those that have any or all of the stated benefits and advantages. References to "an" item refer to one or more of those items.

[0065] It will be understood that the above description of preferred embodiments is given by way of example only, and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art. Although various embodiments have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, or with reference to one or more individual embodiments, those skilled in the art may make many changes to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0066] List of Numbered Embodiments 1. An attachment for an injection device having a needle cap, the attachment comprising: a body portion including a recess adapted to receive an injection device; and a cover coupled to the body portion, the cover pivotable between an open position in which the recess is exposed to receive the injection device and a closed position in which the cover at least partially closes the recess to retain the injection device on the body portion; an uncapping device comprising grippers having an expanded configuration that allows the needle cap to pass between the grippers and a retracted configuration in which the grippers retain the needle cap and at least partially remove the needle cap from the injection device; The cover and the uncapping device are operatively coupled to one another such that when the cover is moved from the open position toward the closed position, the uncapping device transitions from an extended configuration to a contracted configuration, the attachment.

[0067] 2. An accessory as described in embodiment 1, wherein the uncapping device is configured to return to the extended configuration to release the needle cap when the cover reaches the closed position.

[0068] 3. An accessory as described in embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, wherein the gripping portion comprises at least one movable element adapted to hold the needle cap when the uncapping device is in a contracted configuration and to be offset from the needle cap when the uncapping device is in an extended configuration.

[0069] 4. An accessory as described in embodiment 3, wherein at least one movable element is formed from a flexible elastic material that allows the at least one movable element to move between a position in which the gripping portions hold the needle cap and a position in which the needle cap can pass between the gripping portions.

[0070] 5. An accessory as described in embodiment 4, wherein at least one movable element is configured to bend between a position in which the grippers hold the needle cap and a position in which the needle cap can pass between the grippers.

[0071] 6. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 1 to 5, further comprising at least one uncapping device cam arranged to interact with at least one uncapping device cam surface to transition the uncapping device from the extended configuration to the contracted configuration.

[0072] 7. An accessory as described in embodiment 3, embodiment 6, and optionally embodiment 4 and / or embodiment 5, wherein at least one uncapping device cam is coupled to or provided on at least one movable element.

[0073] 8. The accessory of embodiment 6 or embodiment 7, wherein the cap remover cam surface is coupled to or provided on the body portion.

[0074] 9. An accessory according to any one of embodiments 6 to 8, wherein at least one uncapper cam surface is positioned to interact with the uncapper cam to transition the uncapper from an extended configuration to a contracted configuration and back to the extended configuration as the uncapper cam moves over and past the uncapper cam surface.

[0075] 10. The accessory of any one of embodiments 6-9, wherein the at least one uncapper cam and the at least one uncapper cam surface are offset from one another when the cover is in the open position.

[0076] 11. The accessory of any one of embodiments 6-10, wherein movement of the cover from the open position to the closed position moves the uncapping device cam to engage the uncapping device cam surface, such that the uncapping device transitions from the extended configuration to the contracted configuration.

[0077] 12. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the gripping portion has at least one gripping end shaped to match the outer surface of the needle cap.

[0078] 13. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the gripping portion comprises a pair of movable elements adapted to hold the needle cap when the uncapping device is in a contracted configuration and to be offset from the needle cap when the uncapping device is in an extended configuration.

[0079] 14. An accessory as described in embodiment 13, wherein each one of the pair of movable elements is formed from a flexible elastic material that allows each movable element to move between a position in which the gripping portion holds the needle cap and a position in which the needle cap can pass between the gripping portions.

[0080] 15. An accessory described in embodiment 13 or embodiment 14, wherein each one of the pair of movable elements is configured to bend between a position in which the gripping portions hold the needle cap and a position in which the needle cap can pass between the gripping portions.

[0081] 16. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 1 to 15, further comprising a pair of uncapper cams each arranged to interact with one of the pair of respective uncapper cam surfaces to transition the uncapper from the extended configuration to the contracted configuration.

[0082] 17. An accessory as described in embodiment 13, embodiment 16, and optionally embodiment 14 and / or embodiment 15, wherein each cap remover cam is connected to a respective one of the movable elements or provided on a respective one of the movable elements.

[0083] 18. An accessory according to embodiment 16 or embodiment 17, wherein each uncapping device cam surface is coupled to or provided on the body portion.

[0084] 19. An accessory according to any one of embodiments 16 to 18, wherein the uncapper cam surfaces are arranged to transition the uncapper from an extended configuration to a contracted configuration and back to the extended configuration as the uncapper cams move across and pass the respective uncapper cam surfaces.

[0085] 20. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 16 to 19, wherein each uncapper cam and corresponding uncapper cam surface are offset from one another when the cover is in the open position, such that the uncapper cam and the uncapper do not interface with one another.

[0086] 21. The accessory of any one of embodiments 16-20, wherein movement of the cover from the open position to the closed position moves each uncapping device cam into engagement with a corresponding uncapping device cam surface, such that the uncapping device transitions from the extended configuration to the contracted configuration.

[0087] 22. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 1 to 21, wherein the gripping portion comprises a pair of gripping ends, each shaped to match the outer surface of the needle cap.

[0088] 23. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 1 to 22, wherein the cover has a proximal end adapted to be moved by a user to move the cover from an open position to a closed position.

[0089] 24. An attachment according to any one of embodiments 1 to 23, comprising a distal end adapted to move a gripping portion toward the end of the attachment to at least partially remove the needle cap from the injection device when the cover is moved from the open position to the closed position.

[0090] 25. An accessory according to any one of embodiments 1 to 24, wherein the cover is connected to the body portion about at least one pivot.

[0091] 26. At least one pivot part is at least one opening in the body portion; 26. The accessory of embodiment 25, comprising at least one protrusion in the cover, the at least one protrusion being rotatable within the opening.

[0092] 27. An accessory as described in embodiment 25 or embodiment 26, wherein the cover has at least one distal extension extending distally away from the at least one pivot portion, and the distal end of the cover is provided at the end of the distal extension.

[0093] 28. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 25 to 27, wherein the cover includes a proximal extension portion extending away from at least one pivot portion in a proximal direction.

[0094] 29. An accessory as described in embodiments 27 and 28, wherein the distal extension is shorter than the proximal extension.

[0095] 30. An accessory as described in embodiment 24 and optionally any one of embodiments 1 to 29, wherein the distal end of the cover is provided with a cover cam disposed within the uncapping device slot of the uncapping device.

[0096] 31. The accessory of embodiment 30, wherein rotation of the cover cam about the pivot axis acts against the uncapping device slot to translate the uncapping device within the accessory.

[0097] 32. An accessory as described in embodiment 30 or embodiment 31, wherein the cover is arranged to pivot from an open position to a closed position to act against the cap remover slot to move the cap remover toward the distal end of the accessory.

[0098] 33. An accessory as described in embodiment 32, wherein the gripper is positioned to hold the needle cap while the uncapping device slot moves toward the distal end of the accessory to at least partially remove the needle cap from the injection device.

[0099] 34. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 30 to 33, wherein the cover is arranged to pivot from a closed position to an open position to act against the cap remover slot to move the cap remover toward the proximal end of the accessory.

[0100] 35. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 1 to 34, wherein the cover is connected to the body portion by a pair of pivots.

[0101] 36. An accessory as described in embodiment 35, wherein each one of the pair of pivots comprises an opening in the main body portion and a protrusion in the cover, the protrusion being rotatable within the opening.

[0102] 37. An accessory as described in embodiment 35 or embodiment 36, wherein the cover includes a pair of distal extensions each extending distally away from each of the pair of pivot portions.

[0103] 38. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 35 to 37, wherein the cover has a pair of proximal extensions, each extending away from each of the pair of pivot portions in a proximal direction.

[0104] 39. An accessory as described in embodiments 36 and 37, wherein each distal extension is shorter than the corresponding proximal extension.

[0105] 40. An accessory as described in embodiment 37, and optionally embodiment 38 and / or embodiment 39, further comprising a pair of distal ends of covers each provided at a respective one end of the distal extension, each one of the distal ends being operably coupled to a cap removal device so as to move a gripping portion toward an end of the accessory to at least partially remove the needle cap from the injection device when the cover is moved from an open position to a closed position.

[0106] 41. The accessory of embodiment 40, wherein each distal end of the cover includes a cover cam disposed within a corresponding uncapping device slot of the uncapping device.

[0107] 42. An accessory as described in embodiment 41, wherein rotation of each cover cam about a pivot axis acts against a corresponding uncapping device slot to translate the uncapping device within the accessory.

[0108] 43. An accessory as described in embodiment 41 or embodiment 42, wherein the cover is arranged to pivot from an open position to a closed position to act against a corresponding cap remover slot in order to move the cap remover toward the distal end of the accessory.

[0109] 44. An accessory as described in embodiment 43, wherein the gripping portion is positioned to hold the needle cap while the uncapping device slot moves toward the distal end of the accessory to remove the needle cap from the injection device.

[0110] 45. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 41 to 44, wherein the cover is arranged to pivot from a closed position to an open position to act against a corresponding cap remover slot in order to move the cap remover toward the proximal end of the accessory.

[0111] 46. ​​An accessory described in any one of embodiments 1 to 45, wherein the accessory is for an injection device having a safety shield, at least one flange adapted to enable a user to grip the injection device, and a syringe sheath movable relative to the at least one flange from a pre-injection position to a locked out position, and the body portion further comprises a slot adapted to receive the at least one flange of the injection device.

[0112] 47. The accessory of embodiment 46, wherein the recess and slot are exposed to receive the safety shield and at least one flange, respectively, when the cover is in the open position.

[0113] 48. An accessory described in embodiment 46 or embodiment 47, wherein the cover at least partially closes the recess and the slot when the cover is in the closed position to retain the injection device within the accessory.

[0114] 49. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 46 to 48, wherein the slot is shaped to resist distal and proximal movement of at least one flange relative to the body portion, and to allow the syringe sheath to move proximally relative to the body portion from a pre-injection position to a locked out position.

[0115] 50. A distal end of an attachment adapted to be positioned toward an injection site and an opposing proximal end of the attachment; An accessory described in any one of embodiments 46 to 49, further comprising a pair of opposing surfaces and a pair of opposing side surfaces connecting the distal ends of the proximal end of the accessory.

[0116] 51. The accessory of embodiment 50, wherein each one of the opposing surfaces has a larger surface area than each one of the opposing side surfaces.

[0117] 52. An accessory as described in embodiment 50 or embodiment 51, wherein one of the opposing surfaces is provided with a cover.

[0118] 53. An accessory according to any one of embodiments 50 to 52, wherein the slot and recess each have an open surface that is parallel to the surface of the accessory.

[0119] 54. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 46 to 53, wherein the recess and slot are arranged to receive the injection device when the injection device moves in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the accessory.

[0120] 55. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 46 to 54, wherein the slot has at least one distal abutment portion arranged to resist distal movement of the at least one flange relative to the accessory.

[0121] 56. An accessory as described in embodiment 55, wherein at least one distal abutment portion of the slot is integrally formed with the body portion.

[0122] 57. An accessory as described in embodiment 55 or embodiment 56, wherein the shape of at least one distal abutment portion at least partially corresponds to the shape of the underside of at least one flange.

[0123] 58. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 46 to 57, wherein the slot has at least one proximal abutment portion arranged to resist movement of the at least one flange in the proximal direction relative to the accessory.

[0124] 59. An accessory as described in embodiment 58, wherein at least one proximal abutment portion of the slot is integrally formed in the body portion.

[0125] 60. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 46 to 59, wherein the cover has at least one flange that resists distal and proximal movement relative to the accessory, but the syringe sheath has a cover slot that is shaped to allow it to move proximally relative to the accessory from a pre-injection position to a locked out position.

[0126] 61. The accessory of embodiment 60, wherein the cover slot is formed in the cover.

[0127] 62. An accessory as described in embodiment 61, wherein the cover slot includes at least one distal abutment portion arranged to resist distal movement of the at least one flange relative to the accessory.

[0128] 63. The accessory of embodiment 62, wherein at least one distal abutment portion of the cover slot is integrally formed in the cover.

[0129] 64. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 60 to 63, wherein the cover slot has at least one proximal abutment portion arranged to resist movement of the at least one flange in the proximal direction relative to the accessory.

[0130] 65. An accessory as described in embodiment 64, wherein at least one proximal abutment portion of the cover slot is integrally formed in the cover.

[0131] 66. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 46 to 65, wherein the accessory is for an injection device having a pair of flanges adapted to enable a user to grip the injection device.

[0132] 67. An accessory as described in embodiment 66, wherein the slot comprises a pair of distal abutment portions each arranged to resist distal movement of each of the pair of flanges relative to the accessory.

[0133] 68. An accessory as described in embodiment 67, wherein the pair of distal abutment portions are integrally formed with the main body portion.

[0134] 69. An accessory described in embodiment 67 or embodiment 68, wherein the shape of each of the pair of distal abutment portions at least partially corresponds to the shape of the underside of each of the pair of flanges.

[0135] 70. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 66 to 69, wherein the slot has a pair of proximal abutment portions each arranged to resist proximal movement of each of the pair of flanges relative to the body portion.

[0136] 71. The accessory of embodiment 70, wherein the pair of proximal abutment portions are integrally formed with the body portion.

[0137] 72. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 60 to 71, wherein the cover slot has a pair of distal abutment portions arranged to resist distal movement of the pair of flanges relative to the body portion.

[0138] 73. An accessory as described in embodiment 72, wherein the pair of distal abutment portions of the cover slot are integrally formed in the cover.

[0139] 74. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 60 to 73, wherein the cover slot has a pair of proximal abutment portions arranged to resist movement of the pair of flanges in the proximal direction relative to the body portion.

[0140] 75. An accessory as described in embodiment 74, wherein the pair of proximal abutment portions of the cover slot are integrally formed in the cover.

[0141] 76. The body portion includes a track on which the cap removal device is disposed for translation; 76. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 1 to 75, wherein the track exposes at least a portion of the uncapping device when the injection device is positioned in the recess, such that the injection device at least partially retains the uncapping device within the track.

[0142] 77. The accessory of embodiment 76, wherein the track is configured such that the uncapping device directly contacts the injection device when the injection device is positioned in the recess.

[0143] 78. An accessory as described in embodiment 76 or embodiment 77, wherein the track does not include means adapted for contacting an upper surface of the cap removal device.

[0144] 79. An accessory according to any one of embodiments 76 to 78, wherein the track comprises a base and at least one side wall.

[0145] 80. The truck is a base adapted to guide a lower surface of the uncapping device; An accessory described in any one of embodiments 76 to 79, comprising at least one side wall adapted to guide the side of the cap removal device.

[0146] 81. The accessory of embodiment 80, wherein at least one side wall defines a window wall through which the injection device can be viewed when the injection device is within the accessory.

[0147] 82. The accessory of embodiment 80, wherein the at least one side wall defines an outer side wall of the accessory.

[0148] 83. An accessory according to any one of embodiments 80-82, wherein the base and / or at least one side wall is integrally formed with the body portion.

[0149] 84. An accessory according to any one of embodiments 80 to 83, wherein the track comprises a pair of side walls adapted to guide respective sides of the uncapping device.

[0150] 85. An accessory according to any one of embodiments 80 to 84, wherein the pair of side walls are integrally formed with the body portion.

[0151] 86. The body portion includes a pair of tracks on which the cap removal device is disposed for translation; An accessory described in any one of embodiments 76 to 85, wherein each track exposes at least a portion of the uncapping device such that when the injection device is positioned in the recess, the injection device at least partially retains the uncapping device within each track.

[0152] 87. The accessory of embodiment 86, wherein each track is configured such that the uncapping device directly contacts the injection device when the injection device is positioned in the recess.

[0153] 88. An accessory as described in embodiment 86 or embodiment 87, wherein each track does not include means adapted for contacting an upper surface of the uncapping device.

[0154] 89. An accessory according to any one of embodiments 86 to 88, wherein each track comprises a base and at least one side wall.

[0155] 90. Each track is a base adapted to guide a lower surface of the uncapping device; An accessory described in any one of embodiments 86 to 89, comprising at least one side wall adapted to guide the side of the cap removal device.

[0156] 91. An accessory as described in embodiment 90, wherein at least one side wall of each track defines a window wall through which the injection device can be viewed when the injection device is within the accessory.

[0157] 92. The accessory of embodiment 90, wherein at least one side wall of each track defines an outer side wall of the accessory.

[0158] 93. An accessory according to any one of embodiments 90-92, wherein the base and / or at least one side wall of each track is integrally formed with the body portion.

[0159] 94. An accessory according to any one of embodiments 90 to 93, wherein each track includes a pair of side walls adapted to guide a respective side of the uncapping device.

[0160] 95. An accessory according to any one of embodiments 90 to 94, wherein the pair of side walls of each track are integrally formed with the body portion.

[0161] 96. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 76 to 95, wherein the cap removal device comprises a guide adapted to be positioned within the track.

[0162] 97. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 1 to 96, wherein the cap removal device includes at least one receiving slot adapted to receive at least a portion of the cover when the cover is in the closed position.

[0163] 98. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 1 to 97, wherein the cap removal device includes a pair of receiving slots, each adapted to receive at least a portion of the cover when the cover is in the closed position.

[0164] 99. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 1 to 98, wherein the body portion includes at least one resilient attachment member adapted to connect the cover to the body portion.

[0165] 100. An accessory described in any one of embodiments 1 to 99, wherein the body portion has a track in which the uncapping device is arranged to move axially relative to the body portion, and the track is adapted such that the uncapping device is pressed against the track by the injection device when the injection device is positioned in the body portion.

[0166] 101. The accessory of embodiment 100, wherein the track is adapted to prevent the uncapping device from slipping out of the track when the injection device is located in the body portion.

[0167] 102. An accessory described in embodiment 100 or embodiment 101, wherein the track is adapted such that the cap removal device is movable in a direction having a component perpendicular to the axial direction when the injection device is not located in the body portion.

[0168] 103. An accessory according to any one of embodiments 100 to 102, wherein the track is adapted such that when the injection device is positioned in the body portion, the uncapping device is pressed against the track by the injection device, such that the uncapping device can move only axially relative to the body portion.

[0169] 104. An accessory according to any one of embodiments 1 to 103, wherein the body portion comprises a track along which the cap removal device is slidably disposed.

[0170] 105. An accessory described in embodiment 1 and embodiment 29, and optionally any one of embodiments 2 to 28 and embodiments 30 to 104, wherein at least one uncapper cam is arranged to slide within a slot in the body portion that accommodates the uncapper cam surface.

[0171] 106. A system for performing an injection, comprising an injection device having a needle cap and an accessory described in any one of embodiments 1 to 105.

[0172] 107. Injection devices are Antibodies (monoclonal antibodies, ustekinumab, golimumab, infliximab, guselkumab, sirukumab, adalimumab, rituximab, tocilizumab, centlizumab, centlizumab pegol, sarilumab, secukinumab, ixekizumab, or biosimilar antibodies thereof) for use in the treatment or prevention of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, ulcerative colitis, hormone deficiency poisoning, pain, thrombosis, infection, diabetes, diabetic retinopathy, acute coronary syndrome, angina, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, cancer, macular degeneration, allergy, hay fever, inflammation, anemia, or myelodysplasia, or for use in producing protective immunity 107. The system of embodiment 106, comprising a substance selected from the group consisting of: methadone, methadone, ketidine ...

[0173] 108. An antibody (monoclonal antibody, ustekinumab, golimumab, infliximab, guselkumab, sirukumab, adalimumab, rituximab, tocilizumab, centlizumab, centlizumab pegol, sarilumab, sarilumab, rituximab, tocilizumab, centlizumab pegol, sarilumab ... and / or a biosimilar version thereof), etanercept, abatacept, anakinra, epoetin alfa, darbepoetin alfa, epoetin beta-methoxypolyethylene glycol, peginesatide, a hormone, an antitoxin, a substance for controlling pain, a substance for controlling thrombosis, a substance for controlling or eliminating infection, a peptide, a protein, human insulin or a human insulin analog or derivative, a polysaccharide, DNA, RNA, an enzyme, an oligonucleotide, an antiallergic drug, an antihistamine, an anti-inflammatory drug, a corticosteroid, a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug, erythropoietin, or a vaccine.

[0174] 109. The administration of antibodies (such as monoclonal antibodies, ustekinumab, golimumab, infliximab, guselkumab, sirukumab, adalimumab, centrizumab brituximab, tocilizumab, centrizumab, centrizumab pegol, sarilumab, secukinumab, ixekizumab, or biosimilar versions thereof), etanercept, abatacept, anakinra, epoetin alfa, darbepoetin alfa, epoetin beta-methoxypolyethylene glycol, peginesatide, hormones, antitoxins, substances for controlling pain, substances for controlling thrombosis, substances for controlling or eliminating infections, peptides, to a human subject by using the system described in embodiment 106. , a protein, human insulin or a human insulin analog or derivative, a polysaccharide, DNA, RNA, an enzyme, an oligonucleotide, an antiallergic drug, an antihistamine, an anti-inflammatory drug, a corticosteroid, a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug, erythropoietin, or a vaccine, for use in the treatment or prevention of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, ulcerative colitis, hormone deficiency poisoning, pain, thrombosis, infection, diabetes, diabetic retinopathy, acute coronary syndrome, angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, cancer, macular degeneration, allergy, hay fever, inflammation, anemia, or myelodysplasia, or for use in producing protective immunity. It should be noted that the present invention includes the following aspects. [Aspect 1] 1. An attachment for an injection device having a needle cap, said attachment comprising: a body portion including a recess adapted to receive the injection device; a cover coupled to the body portion, the cover pivotable between an open position in which the recess is exposed to receive the injection device and a closed position in which the recess is at least partially closed to retain the injection device on the body portion; an uncapping device comprising grippers having an expanded configuration that allows the needle cap to pass between the grippers and a retracted configuration in which the grippers retain the needle cap and at least partially remove the needle cap from the injection device; The cover and the uncapping device are operatively coupled to one another such that when the cover is moved from the open position toward the closed position, the uncapping device transitions from the extended configuration to the contracted configuration. [Aspect 2] 2. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the uncapping device is configured to return to the extended configuration to release the needle cap when the cover reaches the closed position. [Aspect 3] The accessory of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the gripping portion comprises at least one movable element adapted to hold the needle cap when the uncapping device is in the contracted configuration and to be offset from the needle cap when the uncapping device is in the extended configuration. [Aspect 4] The accessory of claim 3, wherein the at least one movable element is formed from a flexible, elastic material that enables the at least one movable element to move between a position in which the gripping portions hold the needle cap and a position in which the needle cap can pass between the gripping portions. [Aspect 5] The accessory of claim 4, wherein the at least one movable element is configured to bend between a position in which the gripping portions hold the needle cap and a position in which the needle cap can pass between the gripping portions. [Aspect 6] 6. The accessory of any one of aspects 1-5, further comprising at least one uncapper cam arranged to interact with at least one uncapper cam surface to transition the uncapper from the extended configuration to the contracted configuration. [Aspect 7] The accessory of claim 3, claim 6, and optionally claim 4 and / or claim 5, wherein the at least one uncapping device cam is coupled to or provided on the at least one movable element. [Aspect 8] The accessory of any one of claims 6 to 7, wherein the cam remover cam surface is coupled to or provided on the body portion. [Aspect 9] 9. The accessory of any one of aspects 6-8, wherein the at least one uncapper cam surface is positioned to interact with the uncapper cam to transition the uncapper from the extended configuration to the contracted configuration and back to the extended configuration as the uncapper cam moves across and past the uncapper cam surface. [Aspect 10] Aspects 10. The accessory of any one of aspects 6-9, wherein the at least one uncapper cam and the at least one uncapper cam surface are offset from one another when the cover is in the open position. [Aspect 11] 11. The accessory of any one of aspects 6-10, wherein movement of the cover from the open position to the closed position moves the uncapper cam to engage the uncapper cam surface, such that the uncapper moves from the extended configuration to the contracted configuration. [Aspect 12] 12. The accessory of any one of aspects 1-11, wherein the gripping portion comprises at least one gripping end shaped to conform to an outer surface of the needle cap. [Aspect 13] 13. The accessory of any one of aspects 1-12, wherein the gripping portion comprises a pair of movable elements adapted to hold the needle cap when the uncapping device is in the retracted configuration and to be offset from the needle cap when the uncapping device is in the extended configuration. [Aspect 14] The accessory of claim 13, wherein each one of the pair of movable elements is formed from a flexible, elastic material that enables each movable element to move between a position in which the gripping portion holds the needle cap and a position in which the needle cap can pass between the gripping portions. [Aspect 15] The accessory of claim 13 or 14, wherein each one of the pair of movable elements is configured to bend between a position where the gripping portion holds the needle cap and a position where the needle cap can pass between the gripping portions. [Aspect 16] 16. The accessory of any one of aspects 1-15, further comprising a pair of uncapper cams each positioned to interact with one of a pair of respective uncapper cam surfaces to transition the uncapper from the extended configuration to the contracted configuration. [Aspect 17] The accessory of claim 13, claim 16, and optionally claim 14 and / or claim 15, wherein each uncapping device cam is coupled to or provided on a respective one of the movable elements. [Aspect 18] The accessory of claim 16 or 17, wherein each uncapping device cam surface is coupled to or provided on the body portion. [Aspect 19] 19. The accessory of any one of aspects 16-18, wherein the uncapper cam surfaces are positioned to transition the uncapper from the extended configuration to the contracted configuration and back to the extended configuration as the uncapper cams move past each uncapper cam surface. [Aspect 20] 20. The accessory of any one of aspects 16 to 19, wherein each uncapper cam and the corresponding uncapper cam surface are offset from one another when the cover is in the open position, such that the uncapper cam and the uncapper do not interface with one another. [Aspect 21] 21. The accessory of any one of aspects 16-20, wherein movement of the cover from the open position to the closed position moves each uncapper cam into engagement with a corresponding uncapper cam surface, such that the uncapper transitions from the extended configuration to the contracted configuration. [Aspect 22] 22. The accessory of any one of aspects 1-21, wherein the gripping portion comprises a pair of gripping ends, each shaped to conform to an outer surface of the needle cap. [Aspect 23] A system for performing an injection, the system comprising the injection device having the needle cap and the accessory according to any one of aspects 1 to 22. [Aspect 24] The injection device comprises: Antibodies (monoclonal antibodies, ustekinumab, golimumab, infliximab, guselkumab, sirukumab, adalimumab, rituximab, tocilizumab, centlizumab, centlizumab pegol, sarilumab, secukinumab, ixekizumab, or biosimilars thereof) for use in the treatment or prevention of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, ulcerative colitis, hormone deficiency poisoning, pain, thrombosis, infection, diabetes, diabetic retinopathy, acute coronary syndrome, angina, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, cancer, macular degeneration, allergy, hay fever, inflammation, anemia, or myelodysplasia, or for use in producing protective immunity 24. The system of claim 23, comprising a substance selected from the group consisting of: ribavirin, ribavirin-containing riboflavin (e.g., ribavirin-containing riboflavin version), etanercept, abatacept, anakinra, epoetin alfa, darbepoetin alfa, epoetin beta-methoxypolyethylene glycol, peginesatide, hormones, antitoxins, substances for controlling pain, substances for controlling thrombosis, substances for controlling or eliminating infections, peptides, proteins, human insulin or human insulin analogs or derivatives, polysaccharides, DNA, RNA, enzymes, oligonucleotides, antiallergic drugs, antihistamines, anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, erythropoietin, or vaccines. [Aspect 25] 24. A substance, comprising an antibody (monoclonal antibody, ustekinumab, golimumab, infliximab, guselkumab, sirukumab, adalimumab, rituximab, tocilizumab, centlizumab, centlizumab pegol, serotoninib ... , sarilumab, secukinumab, ixekizumab, or biosimilar versions thereof), etanercept, abatacept, anakinra, epoetin alfa, darbepoetin alfa, epoetin beta-methoxypolyethylene glycol, peginesatide, hormones, antitoxins, substances for controlling pain, substances for controlling thrombosis, substances for controlling or eliminating infections, peptides, proteins, human insulin or human insulin analogs or derivatives, polysaccharides, DNA, RNA, enzymes, oligonucleotides, antiallergic drugs, antihistamines, anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, erythropoietin, or vaccines. [Aspect 26] 24. The delivery of an antibody (such as a monoclonal antibody, ustekinumab, golimumab, infliximab, guselkumab, sirukumab, adalimumab, rituximab, tocilizumab, centlizumab, centlizumab pegol, sarilumab, secukinumab, ixekizumab, or a biosimilar version thereof), etanercept, abatacept, anakinra, epoetin alfa, darbepoetin alfa, epoetin beta-methoxypolyethylene glycol, peginesatide, hormones, antitoxins, substances for controlling pain, substances for controlling thrombosis, substances for controlling or eliminating infections, peptides, proteins, 1. An injection device for use in the treatment or prevention of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, ulcerative colitis, hormone deficiency poisoning, pain, thrombosis, infection, diabetes, diabetic retinopathy, acute coronary syndrome, angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, cancer, macular degeneration, allergy, hay fever, inflammation, anemia, or myelodysplasia, or for the production of protective immunity, by delivery of a substance selected from the group consisting of human insulin or a human insulin analogue or derivative, a polysaccharide, DNA, RNA, an enzyme, an oligonucleotide, an antiallergic drug, an antihistamine, an anti-inflammatory drug, a corticosteroid, a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug, erythropoietin, or a vaccine.

Claims

1. 1. An attachment for an injection device having a needle cap, said attachment comprising: a body portion including a recess adapted to receive the injection device; a cover coupled to the body portion, the cover pivotable between an open position in which the recess is exposed to receive the injection device and a closed position in which the recess is at least partially closed to retain the injection device on the body portion; an uncapping device comprising a gripper having at least one movable element, the uncapping device having an expanded configuration that allows the needle cap to pass between the grippers and a retracted configuration in which the gripper retains the needle cap and at least partially removes the needle cap from the injection device; an attachment, wherein only the one cover is operatively coupled to the uncapping device, and when the one cover is moved from the open position toward the closed position, the uncapping device (i) transitions from the expanded configuration to the contracted configuration, whereby the at least one movable element transitions along an inward direction toward the needle cap to retain the needle cap, and (ii) transitions from the contracted configuration, whereby the at least one movable element reverses direction and transitions away from the needle cap along an outward direction opposite the inward direction to release the needle cap.

2. 2. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the at least one movable element is formed from a flexible, resilient material that allows the at least one movable element to move between a position in which the gripping portions hold the needle cap and a position in which the needle cap can pass between the gripping portions.

3. 2. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the at least one movable element is configured to bend between a position in which the gripping portions retain the needle cap and a position in which the needle cap can pass between the gripping portions.

4. 3. The accessory of claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising at least one uncapper cam arranged to interact with at least one uncapper cam surface to transition the uncapper from the extended configuration to the contracted configuration.

5. The accessory of claim 4 , wherein the at least one uncapping device cam is coupled to or provided on the at least one movable element.

6. The accessory of claim 4 , wherein the uncapper cam surface is coupled to or provided on the body portion.

7. 5. The accessory of claim 4, wherein the at least one uncapper cam surface is positioned to interact with the uncapper cam to transition the uncapper from the extended configuration to the retracted configuration and back to the extended configuration as the uncapper cam moves past the uncapper cam surface.

8. The accessory of claim 4 , wherein the at least one uncapper cam and the at least one uncapper cam surface are offset from one another when the one cover is in the open position.

9. 5. The accessory of claim 4, wherein movement of the one cover from the open position to the closed position moves the uncapper cam into engagement with the uncapper cam surface such that the uncapper transitions from the extended configuration to the contracted configuration.

10. 3. The accessory of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the gripping portion comprises at least one gripping end shaped to conform to an outer surface of the needle cap.

11. 3. The accessory of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the gripping portion comprises a pair of movable elements adapted to hold the needle cap when the uncapping device is in the contracted configuration and to be offset from the needle cap when the uncapping device is in the extended configuration.

12. A system for performing an injection, said system comprising the injection device having the needle cap and an accessory according to claim 1 or claim 2.

13. The injection device comprises: Antibodies (monoclonal antibodies, ustekinumab, golimumab, infliximab, guselkumab, sirukumab, adalimumab, rituximab, tocilizumab, centlizumab, centlizumab pegol, sarilumab, secukinumab, ixekizumab, or biosimilar antibodies thereof) for use in the treatment or prevention of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, ulcerative colitis, hormone deficiency poisoning, pain, thrombosis, infection, diabetes, diabetic retinopathy, acute coronary syndrome, angina, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, cancer, macular degeneration, allergy, hay fever, inflammation, anemia, or myelodysplasia, or for use in producing protective immunity 13. The system of claim 12, comprising a substance selected from the group consisting of an anti-inflammatory drug, ...

14. 13. The delivery of an antibody (such as a monoclonal antibody, ustekinumab, golimumab, infliximab, guselkumab, sirukumab, adalimumab, rituximab, tocilizumab, centlizumab, centlizumab pegol, sarilumab, secukinumab, ixekizumab, or a biosimilar version thereof), etanercept, abatacept, anakinra, epoetin alfa, darbepoetin alfa, epoetin beta-methoxypolyethylene glycol, peginesatide, hormones, antitoxins, substances for controlling pain, substances for controlling thrombosis, substances for controlling or eliminating infections, peptides, proteins, to a human subject by using the system of claim 12.

1. An injection device for use in the treatment or prevention of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, ulcerative colitis, hormone deficiency poisoning, pain, thrombosis, infection, diabetes, diabetic retinopathy, acute coronary syndrome, angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, atherosclerosis, cancer, macular degeneration, allergy, hay fever, inflammation, anemia, or myelodysplasia, or for the production of protective immunity, by delivery of a substance selected from the group consisting of human insulin or a human insulin analogue or derivative, a polysaccharide, DNA, RNA, an enzyme, an oligonucleotide, an antiallergic drug, an antihistamine, an anti-inflammatory drug, a corticosteroid, a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug, erythropoietin, or a vaccine.

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