University Times

A new product is expected to make taking prescription medication easier and safer for those with visual impairments.

The Aloud audio label is available regionally at Rx Partners pharmacies and nationally through Rx Partners Specialty pharmacy, an affiliate of UPMC Health System.

The reusable Aloud audio label is a digital recording chip housed in a small plastic base attached to a prescription container.

The pharmacist records the medication information onto the audio label after filling the prescription. The user can then play back the instructions at home using the Aloud replay unit. The recorded message can be replayed indefinitely and cannot be erased or altered by the consumer.

ASKO Corporation of Stamford, NY, which is the manufacturer of the Aloud audio labeling system, has signed an agreement with Rx Partners giving it exclusive rights to market the product through Rx Partners pharmacies and UPMC outpatient pharmacies in 42 counties of western Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia, and nationally via Rx Partners' prescription mail service.

In addition to Rx Partners Specialty mail service, Rx Partners has walk-in locations in Oakland and at the Shop 'n Save grocery store in Hermitage, Pa. Aloud will also be available at all UPMC outpatient pharmacies.

For more information, call 866/33-ALOUD or visit www.getaloud.com.