Patent Publication Number: US-2021162451-A1

Title: Metering dispenser for flowable compositions

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/399,978, filed on Apr. 30, 2019 and titled METERING DISPENSER FOR FLOWABLE COMPOSITIONS, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,919,073, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/328,401, filed on Jan. 23, 2017 and titled METERING DISPENSER FOR FLOWABLE COMPOSITIONS, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,322,433, which is the U.S. National Stage of International Application No. PCT/US2015/055814, filed on Oct. 15, 2015 and titled METERING DISPENSER FOR FLOWABLE COMPOSITIONS, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/064,259, filed Oct. 15, 2014 and titled METERING DISPENSER FOR FLOWABLE COMPOSITIONS, all of which are herein incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The field of the invention relates to dispensers for flowable compositions, and more particularly, to a dispenser having a rotatable housing which causes a floor member to rise and urge a predetermined amount of flowable composition through an opening in a cap. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Traditionally, topically administered medicine was often formulated as liquids. Applying a liquid to a skin surface often resulted in a portion of the dose spreading beyond the target area. Cream-based formulations were developed as viscous liquids to prevent the unintended application of the medicine to an unaffected area. More recently, pharmacists have been taking traditional medicines and “compounding” them in a cream base. 
     Administering the cream-based medicines is a challenge because providing an accurate measured dose is not easy. One common form of a dispenser is a traditional hypodermic syringe, without the needle. The user can depress the plunger to force an amount of cream out of the barrel as indicated by markings on the side of the barrel. For older patients, it is not always easy to measure out 0.1 ml or so of medicine, as this may require more dexterity than is available. 
     Recent improvements have been made to develop a more accurate method of metering creams, such as is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,213,994. Specifically, the improvements comprise a metering system that uses a plunger to express an accurate dosage from a chamber by relying on a specified number of turns of a drive screw to advance the plunger and deliver a known amount of medicine. The metering system provides an audible sound when a unit or “click” has been delivered. 
     To ensure that the dispenser provides an accurate dosage, the patient should be consistently alerted to stop rotation of the drive screw at the appropriate location, and the amount of medicine that is pushed through a dispensing end should not vary due to leaks or fluctuation in the movement of the plunger. 
     In certain cases, particularly when there is not a perfectly tight fit between the plunger and the walls of the chamber, the plunger may turn slightly within the chamber when the drive screw turns, which may allow small gaps to form between the plunger and the chamber. As a result, the cream may squeeze down through the small gaps rather than exiting through the dispensing end of the chamber, which could result in metering inaccuracies. Because of the potential for possible leaks with cream-based medicines, this design may not be practical for use with certain liquids or fluids that would have a higher tendency to leak or spill. 
     In some embodiments, the coupling between the drive screw and the chamber may have some elasticity when the drive screw is retained within the chamber through the use of internally directed tapering fingers, which allows the chamber to be pushed up slightly relative to the drive screw when the base is rotated. This slight shift may cause less than the full dosage to be dispensed, which could also lead to metering inaccuracies. 
     Also, in many cases, the patient is relying on an audible sound to confirm that the dosage is complete. In certain instances, the click mechanism may lose elasticity if left in a “mid-click” position. In those cases, it may take some time for the click mechanism to regain its elasticity and until it does, there may not be an audible click response, which could also potentially lead to metering inaccuracies. 
     As a result, it may be desirable to provide a metered dispenser that forms a fluid seal for a variety of compositions, including viscous liquids or other fluids with a positive viscosity, which also includes a click mechanism that is not affected when the dispenser is left in a “mid-click” position. 
     SUMMARY 
     The terms “invention,” “the invention,” “this invention” and “the present invention” used in this patent are intended to refer broadly to all of the subject matter of this patent and the patent claims below. Statements containing these terms should be understood not to limit the subject matter described herein or to limit the meaning or scope of the patent claims below. Embodiments of the invention covered by this patent are defined by the claims below, not this summary. This summary is a high-level overview of various aspects of the invention and introduces some of the concepts that are further described in the Detailed Description section below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in isolation to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by reference to appropriate portions of the entire specification of this patent, any or all drawings and each claim. 
     According to certain embodiments of the present invention, a metering dispenser comprises a body comprising an inner wall, a first end, and a second end, wherein the inner wall defines a chamber having a cross-sectional shape that varies along a longitudinal draft and configured to hold a flowable composition, a drive screw coupled to the second end of the body, wherein the drive screw comprises an elongated shaft having at least one external thread, wherein the elongated shaft is arranged to extend substantially along a length of the chamber, and a plunger comprising a plunger cross-sectional shape, wherein the plunger is positioned within the chamber and is coupled to the elongated shaft of the drive screw so that the plunger travels along the elongated shaft through the chamber when the drive screw is rotated, wherein the plunger comprises at least two annular lips for contact with the inner wall, wherein at least one annular lip of the at least two annular lips is configured to flex in a direction toward the first end of the body so that the plunger forms a fluid seal with the inner wall of the chamber as the plunger travels along the elongated shaft through the chamber. 
     In certain embodiments, the plunger cross-sectional shape is not round and/or the plunger cross-sectional shape is oval. The second annular lip of the at least two annular lips may be configured to flex in a direction toward the second end of the body. In some embodiments, an O-ring is mounted on the plunger for contact with the inner wall. 
     In certain embodiments, the at least two annular lips are configured to maintain the fluid seal over variations of 0.01% to 25% in cross-sectional area along the longitudinal draft of the chamber. 
     The at least two annular lips may be configured to maintain the fluid seal for any composition having a positive viscosity. In some embodiments, a third annular lip of the at least two annular lips is positioned between a first annular lip and a second annular lip the at least two annular lips, wherein the third annular lip is configured to be arranged substantially perpendicular to the inner wall of the chamber as the plunger travels along the elongated shaft through the chamber. 
     In some embodiments, at least one anchor is positioned to prevent radial movement of the plunger relative to the inner wall of the chamber. 
     In certain embodiments, the metering dispense further comprises a base and at least one projection on one of the base or the body for engagement with a contact surface on the other of the body and base to cause the rotational forces necessary to rotate the base relative to the body to vary depending on the relative rotational position of the base relative to the body. The engagement between the projection and contact surface may result in home positions at predetermined angular positions. The engagement between the projection and contact surface may further resist rotation in a first direction and facilitates rotation in an opposite direction. 
     In some embodiments, the metering dispenser further comprises a base rotationally coupled to the second end of the body, wherein the force required to rotate the base and body relative to each other varies to provide tactile feedback to a user. 
     In some embodiments, the metering dispenser further comprises a base rotationally coupled to the second end of the body, wherein rotation of the base and body relative to each other provides audible feedback when at least one relative position is reached. 
     According to certain embodiments, a base is rotationally coupled to the second end of the body, wherein one of the base and the second end of the body comprises a cam comprising at least one low point having a trailing edge. The cam may be asymmetrical around a longitudinal axis of the metering dispenser. In some embodiments, the base comprises the cam. 
     In these embodiments, the cam is configured to contact at least one tab extending from the other of the cam and the second end of the body so that the at least one tab enters the at least one low point by traveling over the trailing edge, wherein the trailing edge is configured to prevent the at least one tab from exiting the at least one low point in the direction of the trailing edge. The at least one tab may extend from the second end of the body. 
     The cam may further comprise at least one cam lobe configured to induce radial bending of the at least one tab when the at least one tab travels over the at least one cam lobe. In these embodiments, the at least one tab may produce an audible sound when the at least one tab travels from the at least one cam lobe to the at least one low point on the cam. 
     In various embodiments, the metering dispenser may further comprise a child resistant receptacle. The child resistant receptacle may comprise a sidewall that substantially surrounds the metering dispenser and a pair of lips that extend below the metering dispenser. The child resistant receptacle may be positionable proximate the base to make rotation of the base at least difficult. The child resistant receptacle may be difficult for a typical child to remove. The child resistant receptacle may surround the base and require compression at a predetermined position to release the child resistant receptacle from the base. The child resistant receptacle may comprise a sidewall that substantially surrounds the base and at least a portion of a cap on the body, thereby resisting (1) rotation of the base relative to the body and (2) removal of the base. 
     According to certain embodiments of the present invention, a metering dispenser comprises a body comprising an inner wall, a first end, and a second end comprising a body plate, wherein the inner wall defines a chamber, and a drive screw comprising an elongated shaft extending from a first side of a screw plate and a cog positioned at a second end of the coupling body, wherein the drive screw is positioned within the chamber so that the elongated shaft is arranged to extend substantially through the chamber and the second side of the screw plate is positioned adjacent an inner side of the body plate, wherein the coupling body and the cog extend from the second side of the screw plate through an aperture in the body plate, wherein a plurality of tapering fingers are positioned around a lip of the aperture in the body plate and arranged so that at least one of the plurality of tapering fingers is arranged along the coupling body so that a tip of the at least one of the plurality of tapering fingers contacts a lip of the cog, and wherein the positioning of the screw plate adjacent the inner side of the body plate prevents further movement of the drive screw in a direction of the second end of the body. 
     In certain embodiments, the radial engagement structure comprises at least one tapering finger positioned to contact an annular lip on the drive screw. The at least one tapering finger may comprise a plurality of tapering fingers positioned to extend generally along the drive screw to contact the lip of the drive screw. The metering dispenser may further comprise a coupler for rotational engagement with the base, which comprises at least one spline for engagement with at least one groove in the base. 
     In some embodiments, the plurality of tapering fingers provide resistance to further movement of the drive screw in a direction of the first end of the body. 
     According to certain embodiments, a base is rotationally coupled to the second end of the body, wherein the base comprises a bushing circumferentially coupled to the cog of the drive screw. The bushing may be configured to longitudinally travel along a length of the cog. In some embodiments, a cam is arranged around a circumferential outer surface of the bushing, wherein the cam comprises at least one low point having a trailing edge. In certain embodiments, the cam is configured to contact at least one tab extending from an external side of the body plate. 
     In some embodiments, the cam further comprises at least one cam lobe configured to induce radial bending of the at least one tab when the at least one tab travels over the at least one cam lobe. In these embodiments, the contact between at least one tab and cam may produce an audible sound when the at least one tab travels from the at least one cam lobe to the at least one low point on the cam. 
     In various embodiments, the metering dispenser may further comprise a child resistant lock comprising a sidewall that substantially surrounds the metering dispenser and a pair of lips that extend below the metering dispenser. 
     According to certain embodiments of the present invention, a metering dispenser comprises a body comprising a first end and a second end comprising a body plate, the body plate comprising at least one tab and at least one projection, and a base rotationally coupled to the second end of the body, wherein the base comprises a cam and at least one protrusion, the cam comprising at least one low point having a trailing edge, wherein the at least one low point on the cam and the at least one protrusion are arranged so that the at least one protrusion contacts the at least one projection producing an audible sound when the protrusion passes over the at least one projection, and wherein the cam is configured to contact the at least one tab so that the at least one tab enters the at least one low point by traveling over the trailing edge, wherein the trailing edge is configured to prevent the at least one tab from exiting the at least one low point in the direction of the trailing edge. 
     In certain embodiments, the cam further comprises at least one cam lobe configured to induce radial bending of the at least one tab when the at least one tab travels over the at least one cam lobe. In these embodiments, the at least one tab may produce an additional audible sound when the at least one tab travels from the at least one cam lobe to the at least one low point on the cam. 
     In various embodiments, the metering dispenser may further comprise a child resistant lock comprising a sidewall that substantially surrounds the metering dispenser and a pair of lips that extend below the metering dispenser. 
     According to certain embodiments of the present invention, a metering dispenser comprises a body comprising an inner wall, a first end, and a second end, wherein the inner wall defines a chamber configured to hold a flowable composition, and wherein the first end of the body comprises an aperture that provides access to the chamber, an administering tool coupled to the first end of the body proximate the aperture, wherein the administering tool comprises at least one hole therethrough, and a plunger slidingly coupled to the inner wall of the chamber, wherein the plunger comprises a top surface arranged so as to mate with the reinforcing ribs when the plunger is positioned proximate the inner surface of the administering tool. 
     In some embodiments, the administering tool further comprises a threaded nozzle arranged proximate the at least one hole. The administering tool may also comprise a restrictor plate that is configured to reduce a size of the opening of the at least one hole. In some embodiments, a top surface of the administering tool further comprises a plurality of protrusions. 
     In various embodiments, the metering dispenser may further comprise a child resistant receptacle. The child resistant receptacle may comprise a sidewall that substantially surrounds portions of the metering dispenser and a pair of lips that extend below the metering dispenser. The child resistant receptacle may be configured, when positioned to substantially surround the body, to prevent removal of the metering dispenser from the child resistant receptacle. The child resistant receptacle may further comprise a pair of lips that extend below the base to resist removal of the child resistant receptacle. In certain embodiments, the child resistant receptacle comprises a lower portion having locking tabs that engage a cap to prevent removal of the cap. 
     In certain embodiments, the body comprises acetal resin, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or a mixture thereof. 
     According to certain embodiments of the present invention, a metering dispenser comprises a body comprising an inner wall, a first end, and a second end comprising a body plate comprising engagement structure, wherein the inner wall defines a chamber, a plunger positionable in the chamber, a base, and a drive screw comprising an elongated threaded shaft threaded through the plunger, two ends, and on one of the two ends, a coupler for rotational engagement with the base, and radial engagement structure for engagement with the body plate to limit relative radial movement, wherein the drive screw is positionable within the chamber to drive the plunger through the chamber when the drive screw is rotated. 
     In certain embodiments, the drive screw comprises mechanically fused threads on an opposing one of the two ends. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a metering dispenser, according to certain embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is an inverted perspective view of a body of the metering dispenser of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is another perspective view of the body of  FIG. 2  with certain details of a body plate removed for clarity. 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a chamber formed inside the body of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 5  is another perspective view of the body of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of a base of the metering dispenser of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 7  is a top view of the base of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 8  is a bottom view of the base of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a drive screw of the metering dispenser of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 10  is a partial perspective view of the drive screw of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of the drive screw of  FIG. 9  combined with the body of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 12  is a partially transparent front view of the drive screw of  FIG. 9  combined with the body of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 13  is a partially transparent front view of the drive screw of  FIG. 9  combined with the body of  FIG. 2  and the base of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the drive screw of  FIG. 9  combined with the base of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view a plunger of the metering dispenser of  FIG. 1  combined with the drive screw of  FIG. 9  and the base of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of the plunger of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 17A  is a front view of the plunger of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 17B  is a front view of the plunger of  FIG. 15  with an O-Ring. 
         FIG. 18  is a bottom perspective view of the plunger of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIGS. 19A and 19B  are top views of the plunger of  FIG. 15  positioned inside the chamber of  FIG. 4  before and after a turning force is applied to the plunger. 
         FIG. 19C  is a top view of the plunger of  FIG. 15  positioned inside the chamber of  FIG. 4  with anchors to prevent rotation of the plunger within the chamber. 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view of the metering dispenser of  FIG. 1  with a cap removed so that an administering tool is visible. 
         FIG. 21  is a perspective view of the administering tool of  FIG. 20  combined with the drive screw of  FIG. 9  and the plunger of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view of the administering tool of  FIG. 20 . 
         FIG. 23  is a bottom perspective view of the administering tool of  FIG. 20 . 
         FIG. 24  is another bottom perspective view of the administering tool of  FIG. 20  with a restrictor plate. 
         FIG. 25  is a bottom perspective view of a cap of the metering dispenser of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view of the administering tool of  FIG. 20  with a threaded nozzle. 
         FIG. 27  is a bottom perspective view of the administering tool of  FIG. 26 . 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view of the metering dispenser of  FIG. 1  with the administering tool of  FIG. 26  and a flip-top cap in an open position, according to certain embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view of the metering dispenser of  FIG. 1  with the administering tool of  FIG. 26  and a flip-top cap in a closed position, according to certain embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 30  is a perspective view of the metering dispenser of  FIG. 1  with a spout incorporated into the administering tool, according to certain embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 31  is a perspective view of the metering dispenser of  FIG. 1  with a collection device incorporated into the administering tool and a dropper, according to certain embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 32  is a perspective view of the administering tool of  FIG. 20  with a plurality of protrusions. 
         FIG. 33  is a perspective view of the metering dispenser of  FIG. 1  with a ruler and marks along the body. 
         FIG. 34  is a perspective view of a child resistant receptacle, according to certain embodiments of the present invention, for use with the metering dispenser of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 35  is a side perspective view of the child resistant receptacle of  FIG. 34 . 
         FIG. 36  is a side view of a child resistant receptacle with a cap removed, according to certain embodiments of the present invention, for use with the metering dispenser of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 37  is an internal perspective view of a cap for use with the child resistant receptacle of  FIG. 36 . 
         FIG. 38  is a side view of the child resistant receptacle of  FIG. 36  with the cap installed. 
         FIG. 39  is a perspective view of the child resistant receptacle of  FIG. 36  with the cap installed. 
         FIG. 40  is a side view of a child resistant receptacle with a cap removed, according to certain embodiments of the present invention, for use with the metering dispenser of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 41  is an internal perspective view of a cap for use with the child resistant receptacle of  FIG. 40 . 
         FIG. 42  is a side view of the child resistant receptacle of  FIG. 40  with the cap installed. 
         FIG. 43  is a perspective view of the child resistant receptacle of  FIG. 40  with the cap installed. 
         FIG. 44  is a perspective view of a metering dispenser, according to certain embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 45  is a perspective view of a body of the metering dispenser of  FIG. 44 . 
         FIG. 46  is a bottom view of the body of  FIG. 45 . 
         FIG. 47  is a top view of a base of the metering dispenser of  FIG. 44 . 
         FIG. 48  includes side views of a drive screw without a blocked section, and a drive screw with a blocked section, according to certain embodiments of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The subject matter of embodiments of the present invention is described here with specificity to meet statutory requirements, but this description is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the claims. The claimed subject matter may be embodied in other ways, may include different elements or steps, and may be used in conjunction with other existing or future technologies. This description should not be interpreted as implying any particular order or arrangement among or between various steps or elements except when the order of individual steps or arrangement of elements is explicitly described. 
       FIGS. 1-31  show certain embodiments of a metering dispenser  10  according to the present invention for dispensing a flowable composition  20 . The flowable composition  20  may include but is not limited to creams or semi-solid emulsions such as oil-in-water creams and water-in-oil creams, gels, sols, colloids, suspensions, solutions, liquids with positive viscosity such as syrups, or other suitable flowable compositions or medicaments. 
     In certain embodiments, a dispenser  10  may have the following main components: a body  100 , a base  200 , a drive screw  300 , a plunger  400  incorporating a fluid seal, an administering tool  500 , and a cap  600 . Some or all of the parts that comprise the dispenser  10  may be formed of materials including but not limited to polymer, plastic, composite, or other formable or moldable material. 
     In certain embodiments, as best illustrated in  FIGS. 2-5 and 44-45 , the body  100  comprises an outer wall  102 , an inner wall  104 , a first end  106 , and a second end  108 . In certain embodiments, the body  100  may be formed of any suitable material including but not limited to acetal resin, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, other plastics, composites, or other suitable materials. The inner wall  104  defines a chamber  110  that may be configured to hold the flowable composition  20 . In certain embodiments, the chamber  110  may have any suitable cross-sectional shape and the plunger  400  may have any suitable plunger cross-sectional shape that will allow the inner wall  104  of the chamber  110  and the plunger  400  to form a fluid seal and interlock with one another in a way that prevents the plunger  400  from freely rotating within the chamber  110 , which is described in more detail below. For example, the chamber  110  and the plunger  400  may have any suitable interlocking shapes including but not limited to oval, elliptical, triangle, rectilinear, parabolic, hexagonal, other polygons, irregular circles, or any other interlocking shapes. 
     The first end  106  may include an external upper rim  112 . The external upper rim  112  may be configured to couple to the administering tool  500 , which is described in more detail below. 
     The second end  108  may include a plurality of tabs  114  projecting downward from a body plate  116 . In certain embodiments, the tabs  114  are elongated strips that are configured to elastically bend and return to an unbent or relaxed position after an external force is removed. The plurality of tabs  114  may be concentrically arranged around an aperture  118  extending through a central location on the body plate  116 . 
     The second end  108  may further comprise a plurality of projections  120  also projecting downward from the body plate  116 . The projections  120  may also be concentrically arranged around the aperture  118  and may be positioned equidistant between two of the plurality of tabs  114  and/or may be positioned closer to one of the plurality of tabs  114 . In certain embodiments, the projections  120  may also be spaced farther away from or closer to the aperture  118  than the tabs  114 . There may be fewer, the same, or a greater number of tabs  114  than projections  120 . In certain embodiments, the projections  120  may be shorter than the tabs  114 , but may also be the same or similar height or taller than the tabs  114  as needed. 
     The second end  108  may further include an external lower rim  122 . The external lower rim  122  may be configured to couple to the base  200 , which is described in more detail below. 
     In certain embodiments, as best illustrated in  FIGS. 6-8 and 46-47 , the base  200  comprises a bottom portion  202 , a sidewall  204 , bushing  206 , and a cam  208 . 
     An upper edge  210  of the sidewall  204  may comprise a lip  212  that is configured to mate with the external lower rim  122  of the body  100 . In certain embodiments, the lip  212  and the external lower rim  122  may be configured to couple via a snap-fit, screw, latch, or other suitable mechanical fastening design. In certain cases, the coupler for rotational engagement with the base  200  comprises at least one spline for engagement with at least one groove in the base  200 . 
     The bushing  206  may extend upwardly from the bottom portion  202 . An aperture  214  may extend through the bushing  206 . A circumferential inner surface  216  of the bushing  206  may comprise a plurality of teeth that are configured to interlock with similarly shaped teeth on a cog  314  of the drive screw  300 , which is discussed in more detail below. 
     In certain embodiments, the cam  208  is arranged around a circumferential outer surface  218  of the bushing  206 , as shown in  FIG. 7 , but in other embodiments, may be arranged around an inner perimeter  234  of the sidewall  204 , as shown in  FIG. 47 . The cam  208  may comprise a plurality of ratchet steps  220  that may be configured to induce radial bending of at least one of the tabs  114  when the base  200  is coupled to the external lower rim  122  of the body  100  and rotated between home or “click” positions. 
     For example, the cam  208  may be shaped to fit within the tabs  114  (as shown in  FIGS. 6-8 ) or around the tabs  114  (as shown in  FIGS. 46-47 ) so that the tabs  114  ride along the cam  208  as the base  200  rotates. The cam  208  may include at least one low point  222  that is shaped so that the cam  208  does not exert sufficient radial force on the tab  114  that is positioned within the low point  222 , which allows the tab  114  to remain in a non-bent or relaxed position. 
     In certain embodiments, as shown in  FIGS. 6-8 , the cam  208  comprises the same number of low points  222  as tabs  114 . In other embodiments, as shown in  FIGS. 46-47 , the cam  208  may comprise fewer low points  222 , but which are wide enough to accommodate more than one tab  114  at any given time. The low points  222  are positioned so that all tabs  114  are positioned within a low point  222  when the cam  208  is in a home or “click” position. As a result, in these embodiments, in one complete rotation, the cam  208  comprises as many home or “click” positions as there are tabs  114 . For example, in embodiments that comprise four tabs  114 , the cam  208  may have four home or “click” positions within one complete rotation of the cam  208 . In other embodiments that comprise more than four tabs  114  (such as the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 44-45 ), the cam  208  may have as many home or “click” positions within one complete rotation of the cam  208  as there are tabs  114 . In certain embodiments, the engagement between the tabs  114  and the cam  208  results in home positions at predetermined angular positions around one complete rotation of the cam  208 . 
     At least one of the low points  222  may comprise a saw-toothed shape, wherein a leading edge  224  has a somewhat gradually inclining sloped shape that facilitates movement of the tab  114  in the direction of the leading edge  224 , and wherein a trailing edge  226  has a squared or otherwise steep slope that resists movement of the tab  114  in the direction of the trailing edge  226 . As a result, the tab  114  locks with the trailing edge  226  of the low point  222  to prevent rotation of the base  200  in the direction of the trailing edge  226  when at least one tab  114  is positioned within the low point  222  having the saw-toothed shape. 
     In certain embodiments, at least one cam lobe  228  is positioned between two of the low points  222 . Some or all of the cam lobes  228  may have the same contoured surface or each cam lobe  228  may have a different contoured surface, depending on the purpose for each cam lobe  228 . 
     For example, as the cam  208  rotates from a home or “click” position, each tab  114  that is positioned proximate a cam lobe  228  may be moved up the leading edge  224  of the low point  222  and onto the cam lobe  228  (unless the low point  222  does not include a leading edge  224 ). In some cases, particularly where the purpose of the cam lobe  228  is to radially bend the tab  114  away from the relaxed position in the low point  222 , the cam lobe  228  may have a minimally declining sloped shape to ensure that the tab  114  is sufficiently radially bent so as to emit an audible “click” when the tab  114  travels from the cam lobe  228  and down the trailing edge  226  of the next low point  222  (unless the next low point  222  does not include a trailing edge  226 ). 
     In other embodiments, at least one of the cam lobes  228  may be shaped to provide a gradually declining sloped shape that meets with a leading edge  224  of a low point  222 . In these embodiments, such a low point  222  may not comprise a trailing edge  226  (or the trailing edge  226  is shaped to follow substantially the same gradually declining sloped shape of the cam lobe  228 ). As a result, these low points  222  are not configured to prevent the base  200  rotating in the direction of the trailing edge  226  when at least one tab  114  is positioned within a low point  222  that is configured in this manner. 
     In yet other embodiments, at least one of the low points  222  may not comprise a leading edge  224  (or the leading edge  224  is shaped so as to follow the same slope of the leading cam lobe  228 ). In these embodiments, the low point  222  meets with the cam lobe  228  without the leading edge  224  transition therebetween. 
     In certain embodiments, a plurality of protrusions  230  may be coupled to the inner perimeter  234  of the sidewall  204  (as shown in  FIGS. 6-8 ) or to an circumferential outer surface  218  of the cam  208  (as shown in  FIGS. 46-47 ). At least one of the plurality of protrusions  230  may be positioned to encounter at least one of the projections  120  located on the body plate  116  of the body  100 , as the base  200  is returning to one of the home or “click” positions. The protrusion  230  is bent by the projection  120  as the protrusion  230  travels over the projection  120 . The protrusion  230  and the projection  120  are positioned so that the protrusion  230  clears the projection  120  and emits an audible sound or “click” when the protrusion  230  returns to an unbent position when the base  200  reaches the next home or “click” position. Thus, in certain embodiments, the interaction between at least one of the protrusions  230  and at least one of the projections  120  may provide the audible sound or “click” response, while the interaction between at least one of the tabs  114  and the cam  208  merely provide the anti-reverse rotation feature. In other embodiments, the interaction between at least one of the protrusions  230  and at least one of the projections  120  may provide a back-up audible sound or “click” to the audible sound or “click” that is also produced by the interaction between at least one of the tabs  114  and the cam  208 . 
     In certain embodiments, the bottom portion  202  of the base  200  may optionally include one or more feet  232  extending outwardly from the bottom portion  202  to assist in stabilizing the dispenser  10  when in a standing position and to facilitate gripping of the base  200  by a user. 
     As briefly mentioned above, the base  200  couples to the drive screw  300 . The drive screw  300  also couples to the body  100 . 
     In certain embodiments, as best illustrated in  FIGS. 9-15 , the drive screw  300  comprises an elongated shaft  302  having at least one external thread  304 , a first end  306 , and a second end  308 . In certain embodiments, a first side of a screw plate  310  is coupled to the second end  308 . A first end of a coupling body  312  is then coupled to a second side of the screw plate  310 , and the cog  314  is then coupled to a second end of the coupling body  312 . The cog  314  may further comprise a lip  316  that is positioned between the coupling body  312  and the cog  314 . 
     In certain embodiments, the drive screw  300  is integrally formed as a single piece. In these embodiments, the cog  314  may be formed with a split spine to allow ease of removal from a mold without resulting in damaged teeth that could otherwise prevent the cog  314  from properly fitting with the bushing  206 . 
     In certain embodiments, at least one tapering finger  124  may be positioned around an outer side of a lip  126  of the aperture  118  in the body plate  116  of the body  100 . These tapering fingers  124  may be arranged so as to project in a direction away from the chamber  110 . 
     The drive screw  300  is inserted into the body  100  so that the cog  314  passes through the aperture  118  in the body plate  116 . The tapering fingers  124  may be shaped so that insertion of the cog  314  exerts pressure against the tapering fingers  124 , thereby causing the opening formed by the tapering fingers  124  to slightly expand to allow the cog  314  to pass therethrough. Once the cog  314  passes through the tapering fingers  124 , the pressure against the tapering fingers  124  is released, and the tapering fingers  124  are then arranged along the coupling body  312  so that tips of the tapering fingers  124  contact the lip  316  of the cog  314 . The combination of the tapering fingers  124 , the shape of the cog  314 , and the body plate  116  form a radial engagement structure that maintains the position of the drive screw  300  within the body  100 . 
     At this point, the second side of the screw plate  310  located at the first end of the coupling body  312  is positioned adjacent an inner side of the body plate  116  of the body  100  so that the screw plate  310  overlaps an inner side of the lip  126  of the aperture  118 . The body plate  116  is positioned to prevent the drive screw  300  from passing any further through the aperture  118 . In certain embodiments, such as where the flowable composition  20  is a positive viscosity liquid, a seal may be formed between the plates  116 ,  310  to prevent leakage as needed. 
     Because the combined length of the thickness of the aperture  118  and the tapering fingers  124  approximates a longitudinal length of the coupling body  312 , the coupling body  312  is locked into place by the contact between the plates  116 ,  310  on the inside of the chamber  110  and the contact between the tapering fingers  124  and the lip  316  of the cog  314 . 
     Because of the arrangement of the tapering fingers  124  on the outside of the chamber  110 , the tapering fingers  124  may only be compressed by a force that pushes the cog  314  toward the chamber  110 . Application of force to the cog  314  in a direction away from the chamber  110  will not compress the tapering fingers  124  and will therefore be prevented through the rigid mating of the plates  116 ,  310 . 
     Once the cog  314  is positioned outside the tapering fingers  124 , the cog  314  is inserted within the bushing  206  of the base  200 . This insertion also positions the tabs  114  arranged on the body plate  116  of the body  100  along the surface of the cam  208  on the base  200 , and may also position the projections  120  arranged on the body plate  116  of the body  100  into rotational alignment with the protrusions  230  on the base  200 . The lip  212  of the base  200  is then coupled to the external lower rim  122  of the body  100 . 
     As discussed above, the base  200  is configured so that rotation between home or “click” positions along the cam  208  applies an outward radial force to at least one of the tabs  114 . In certain instances, if there is any flexibility in the coupling between the body  100  and the base  200 , the force applied by the cam  208  to the at least one tab  114  may alternatively and/or additionally apply a longitudinal force to the at least one tab  114 , thereby causing the body  100  to move away from the base  200 . Such a movement may also result in a longitudinal movement of the plunger  400  within the chamber  110 , which may cause leaks or other inaccuracies in metered metering, which is discussed in detail below. 
     To ensure that the force applied by the cam  208  to the at least one tab  114  does not result in longitudinal movement of the chamber  110  relative to the plunger, the tapering fingers  124  are oriented outward and outside of the chamber, thus eliminating the ability of the chamber  110  to move relative to the plunger  400  in a direction away from the base  200 . 
     To the extent that the force applied by the cam  208  nevertheless results in application of a longitudinal force being applied to the at least one tab  114 , the cog  314  may not be longitudinally coupled to the bushing  206 , which allows the base  200  to longitudinally travel along a length of the cog  314  as needed. As a result, the cog  314  may be inserted into the bushing  206  and circumferentially coupled to the bushing  206  via the interlocking teeth on the cog  314  and the bushing  206 . 
     In certain embodiments, as best illustrated in  FIGS. 15-19 , the plunger  400  comprises a centrally located threaded aperture  402  that is configured to couple to the elongated shaft  302  of the drive screw  300 . As discussed above, the plunger  400  is shaped to snugly fit within the chamber  110  without freely rotating within the chamber  110  when the base  200  is turned. In certain embodiments, the chamber  110  may be formed with a longitudinal draft that results in some variation in size from top to bottom, with the bottom typically being slightly smaller in cross-sectional area than the top. Also, there may be some variation in sizes among chambers  110  and plungers  400 . Therefore, the plunger  400  is configured with a flexible design that provides a fluid seal along the entire length of the chamber  110  and between variations ranging from approximately 0.01% to approximately 25% in cross-sectional area along the longitudinal draft of the chamber  110 . 
     The Table below summarizes variation measurement amount various chamber sizes that were tested with the plunger  400  design. The testing confirmed that there was a fluid seal between the plunger  400  and the chamber  110  as the plunger traveled along the longitudinal draft of the chamber  110 . 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 TC7 
                 TC15M 
                 TC35 
                 TC140 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Cross-sectional area 
                 0.377 
                 0.584 
                 1.069 
                 2.819 
               
               
                 at top of chamber 
               
               
                 (in 2 ) 
               
               
                 Cross-sectional area 
                 0.322 
                 0.523 
                 0.966 
                 2.578 
               
               
                 at bottom of 
               
               
                 chamber (in 2 ) 
               
               
                 % Variation 
                 16.90% 
                 11.70% 
                 10.59% 
                 9.36% 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     In these embodiments, the plungers  400  may be formed to have a greater degree of flexibility that allows the plunger  400  to bend or compress as needed to form a fluid seal inside smaller cross-section areas, and to flex or expand as needed to form a fluid seal inside larger cross-section areas. In certain embodiments, the plunger  400  comprises an annular fluid member  404  that comprises a flexible design configured to flexibly bend, compress, flex, and/or expand as needed to allow the plunger  400  to maintain a fluid seal over variations ranging from approximately 0.01% to approximately 25% in cross-sectional area along the longitudinal draft of the chamber  110 . 
     To provide flexibility within the body of the plunger  400  itself, the plunger may have a curved or domed top surface  406  and a sidewall  408  that forms an inner wall  410  defining an interior space  412 . In certain embodiments, the top surface  406  may at least one channel  414 , which is arranged to mate with at least one reinforcing rib  502  in the administering tool  500  to prevent residual flowable compositions  20  from being trapped between the plunger  400  and the administering tool  500 . 
     The fluid member  404  may comprise at least one annular lip  416 , may further comprise at least two annular lips  416 , and may include up three or more annular lips  416  as needed to create a fluid seal between the plunger  400  and the inner wall  104  as the plunger  400  travels along the elongated shaft  302  through the chamber  110 . In these embodiments, an upper lip  416 A may be configured to flex in a direction toward the first end  106  of the body  100  along the inner wall  104  of the chamber  110  to provide the fluid seal, and a lower lip  416 C may be configured to flex in a direction toward the second end  108  of the body  100  along the inner wall  104  of the chamber  110  to provide stability and/or anti-rotational support. A middle lip  416 B may be configured to be arranged substantially perpendicular to the inner wall  104  of the chamber  110  and/or may be configured to flex in the direction of either the first end  106  or the second end  108  of the body  100  as needed to also provide stability and/or anti-rotational support. 
     In certain embodiments, as illustrated in  FIGS. 19A-19B , the plunger  400  and/or the chamber  110  may not be perfectly shaped to interlock in a manner that prevents all rotational movement of the plunger  400  within the chamber  110 . As a result, small gaps  418  may form in certain spaces between the plunger  400  and the inner wall  104  of the chamber  110 . To prevent such minor rotational movements, as illustrated in  FIG. 19C , at least one anchor  420  may be positioned on at least one leading or lagging rotational point on the plunger  400 . For example, in the embodiments where the plunger  400  is oval-shaped, the anchor  420  may be positioned just to the leading rotational side or the lagging rotation side of at least one apex  422  of the plunger  400  so that the anchor  420  will encounter the inner wall  104  when a rotational force is applied to the plunger  400  by the drive screw  300  and prevent the plunger  400  from radial movement within the chamber  110 . The anchor  420  may have a diameter of 0.005-0.010 inches. In particular, the anchor  420  acts like a take-up spring to further prevent rotation, which keeps the upper lip  416 A from distorting. 
     In further embodiments, an O-ring  424  may be positioned proximate at least one of the annular lips  416  to assist with and/or to provide a fluid seal between the plunger  400  and the chamber  110 . 
     In certain embodiments, as best illustrated in  FIGS. 22, 26, 28, 32, and 44 , the administering tool  500  may comprise a curved or domed top surface  504  having at least one hole  506  therein and a sidewall  508 . The sidewall  508  may include an inner groove  510  which can be coupled to the external upper rim  112  on the body  100 . In these embodiments, the inner groove  510  and the external upper rim  112  may be configured to couple via a snap-fit, screw, latch, or other suitable mechanical fastening design. As discussed above, the administering tool  500  may comprise a plurality of reinforcing ribs  502  positioned on an underside of the top surface  504 . In other embodiments, such as where the flowable composition  20  is a positive viscosity liquid, the administering tool  500  may be a nozzle or other device to pour the liquid into a cup or directly into a mouth of a patient. 
     In certain embodiments, as best illustrated in  FIG. 24 , a restrictor plate  512  may be incorporated into the administering tool  500  to change the size and/or number of holes  506  to accommodate flowable compositions  20  of differing viscosities. For example, a highly viscous composition (such as a topical cream) may require more holes and/or larger holes to pass through the administering tool  500 , whereas a less viscous composition (such as cough syrup) may require fewer holes and/or smaller holes to prevent the composition from spraying out of the administering tool  500  when the base  200  is rotated. 
     In certain embodiments, flowable compositions  20  having a higher viscosity and/or a stickier composition may experience a greater pressure than less viscous and/or less sticky flowable compositions as the plunger  400  is pressed upward. The higher pressure build-up may cause the administering tool  500  to disengage from the body  100  before the plunger  400  has reached the end of the threads  304  of the drive screw  300 . For example, when a flowable composition  20  having a viscosity and stickiness of creamy peanut butter is placed in the dispenser  10 , the pressure build-up from the flowable composition  20  will force the administering tool  500  to disengage from the body  100  when the plunger  400  is still approximately 5-6 clicks from reaching the administering tool  500 . 
     To alleviate this side effect, in certain embodiments, the drive screw  300  may be replaced with a drive screw  300 A, as shown in  FIG. 49 . In these embodiments, the top 1-3 threads  304  have been mechanically fused to form a blocked section  318 , which prevents the plunger  400  from traveling above this point on the drive screw  300 A. As a result, the plunger  400  is unable to continue to press against the flowable composition  20 , and the pressure does not build to the point that the administering tool  500  is removed from the body  100 . This design leaves approximately 2 mL of residual flowable composition  20  between the plunger  400  and the administering tool  500  for the flowable compositions  20  having a higher viscosity and/or a stickier composition. However, this same design may be utilized with less viscous and/or less sticky flowable compositions  20  and there is minimal or no residual composition remaining between the plunger  400  and the administering tool  500 . 
     In certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 25 , the cap  600  is sized to snugly fit over the administering tool  500  to prevent contamination of the pad and to reduce evaporation of the flowable composition  20 . 
     In additional embodiments, as best illustrated in  FIGS. 26-29 , the administering tool  500  may be configured to include a threaded nozzle  514 , which may be used in place of the at least one hole  506  and/or may be an extension thereof. The nozzle  514  may be configured to couple to vaginal, rectal, and/or oral dispensing applicators. Such a design allows these applicators to be loaded with the flowable composition  20  in a much cleaner and precise manner. In these embodiments, the cap  600  may be configured as a flip-top design that snaps over the administering tool  500 , as shown in  FIGS. 28-29 . 
     In certain embodiments, such as those embodiments shown in  FIG. 30 , the administering tool  500  may include a spout  518  with holes  520  that is configured to allow a child or person to ingest the flowable composition  20  directly from the administering tool  500 . These embodiments of the administering tool  500  may be useful in cases where the flowable composition  20  is a positive viscosity liquid that is orally ingested. 
     In additional embodiments, such as those embodiments shown in  FIG. 31 , the administering tool  500  may include a cup or other collection device  522  that couples to the top of the administering tool  500  and collects the flowable composition  20  when it is dispensed. The flowable composition  20  collected in the collection device  522  may be ingested directly from the collection device  522  or may be transferred from the collection device  522  to a recipient via a dropper  524 . 
     Once the dispenser  10  is assembled but prior to coupling of the administering tool  500 , the chamber  110  is filled with the appropriate measured amount of flowable composition  20 . The base  200  is turned so that the drive screw  300  turns and advances the plunger  400  and flowable composition  20  toward the first end  106  of the body  100 . The administering tool  500  is then snapped onto the top of body  100 . The base  200  is turned and the plunger  400  is advanced until there is essentially no air inside the chamber  110  between the flowable composition  20  and the administering tool  500 . The cap  600  is placed on the administering tool  500  and the dispenser  10  is ready for use. 
     The user removes the cap  600  and turns the base  200  the appropriate amount of clicks (typically as directed on the instructions given to the user by the dispensing physician or pharmacy). As the base  200  is turned, the tabs  114  flex and move over the cam  208  as described above, and/or at least one protrusion  230  moves toward at least one projection  120 . As the at least one tab  114  reaches the trailing edge of the low point  222  and/or the at least one protrusion  230  passes over the at least one projection  120 , at least one audible sound or “click” is heard when the base  200  reaches a home or “click” position. Also, the user may sense a vibration when the base  200  reaches a home or “click” position. 
     With each click, a predetermined amount of flowable composition  20  is forced by the rising plunger  400  to be dispensed through the holes  506  and/or nozzle  514  of the administering tool  500 . In the embodiments where the flowable composition  20  is an emulsion, cream, or other semi-solid composition, the dispensed flowable composition  20  may form a bead or pool over the central area of the top surface  504  of the administering tool  500 . The user applies the flowable composition  20  to the skin by rubbing the administering tool  500  on the skin. The flowable composition  20  at least partially spreads out over the top surface  504  and is rubbed into the skin. 
     In certain embodiments where the flowable composition  20  is applied to the skin, as illustrated in  FIG. 32 , the top surface  504  of the administering tool  500  may further include a plurality of protrusions  516 , which may increase blood flow to the skin surface to accelerate absorption of the flowable composition  20 . An increased rate of absorption may be beneficial in cases where patients do not rub the necessary 1-2 minutes as needed to ensure that the flowable composition  20  is dry and absorbed. The protrusions  516  may have any suitable shape include rounded, elliptical, or other suitable shapes. 
     The tactile and/or audible sound or click heard as the base  200  in turn provides feedback as to how much flowable composition  20  is dispensed. For example, the prescription might be for 1 cc of flowable composition  20  per dose to be applied to the skin. If each click is 0.25 cc, for example, then the prescription might instruct the user to turn the base  200  to hear four clicks so as to dispense 1 cc of flowable composition  20 . The design of the present invention substantially prevents reverse rotation of the base  200  with respect to the body  100  so that flowable composition  20  is not inadvertently sucked back into the dispenser  10 , which may reduce the effective dosage dispensed and may contaminate the flowable composition  20  in the chamber  110 . The click also provides positive feedback when the right amount of flowable composition  20  has been dispensed per turn. 
     Optionally, as best illustrated in  FIG. 25 , the cap  600  may have downward projecting protrusions  602  which are receivable within the holes  506  of the administering tool  500 . The protrusions  602  substantially seal the holes  506  when the cap  600  is in place, thereby reducing the risk of contamination of the flowable composition  20  and preventing clogging of the holes  506 . Preferably, the cap  600  has a registering means to align with the administering tool  500  to make alignment of the protrusions  602  and the holes  506  easier. 
     In certain embodiments, the dispenser  10  of the present invention may optionally include a vibration mechanism whereby the dispenser  10  and, in particular, the administering tool  500  area vibrates when activated so as to improve transfer of the flowable composition  20  to the skin. The vibration mechanism may be one of several possible mechanisms known to those skilled in the art. 
     The dispenser of the present invention may also include an indicator mechanism either to show the approximate number of remaining doses or to show when the chamber  110  is near empty, both so that the user can have advance awareness that a refill may be needed. 
     In certain embodiments of an indicator, shown in  FIG. 33 , a dispenser  10  may have a ruler  700  with set of marks  702  along the side of the body  100 , with each mark being correlated to a particular quantity of flowable composition  20  remaining in the dispenser  10 . In these embodiments, the body  100 , or at least a portion thereof (such as an elongated window extending from near the first end  106  to near the second end  108 ) is preferably clear or translucent. 
     In the present invention, a child resistant receptacle  800  may be incorporated with the dispenser  10  to prevent children from accessing the flowable composition  20 . In certain embodiments, as best illustrated in  FIGS. 34-35 , the child resistant receptacle  800  comprises an upper end  802 , a lower end  804 , and a sidewall  806  that connects the two ends  802 ,  804 . The sidewall  806  is configured to substantially surround the outer wall  102  of the body  100 , the sidewall  204  of the base  200 , and the sidewall  508  of the administering tool  500  (which may be covered by the cap  600 ). 
     In the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 34-35 , when the child resistant receptacle  800  is positioned over the dispenser  10 , the sidewall  806  is longitudinally shaped so that the upper end  802  is positioned proximate the top surface  504  of the administering tool  500  (which may be covered by the cap  600 ), wherein the upper end  802  may have a cross-sectional shape that snugly fits over the top surface  504  of the administering tool  500  and/or the cap  600 . In certain embodiments, the upper end  802  may comprise an opening  808  that is smaller than the cross-sectional shape of the administering tool  500  and/or the cap  600  to prevent the dispenser  10  from sliding through the opening  808 , while at the same time providing an access point to press the dispenser  10  down through the lower end  804  when the lower end  804  is deformed, which is discussed in more detail below. In certain embodiments, the opening  808  may be configured to accommodate the administering tool  500  that includes the nozzle  514 . The opening  808  may also save on material costs to manufacture the child resistant receptacle  800 . 
     When the child resistant receptacle  800  is positioned over the dispenser  10 , the sidewall  806  is also longitudinally shaped so that the lower end  804  is positioned proximate the bottom portion  202  of the base  200 . The lower end  804  may have an oval or parabolic cross-sectional shape, wherein the narrower dimension of the lower end  804  is configured to fit snugly against portions of the sidewall  204  of the base  200 . 
     The lower end  804  may further comprise an opening  810  that comprises substantially the same dimensions as the lower end  804 . 
     To secure the child resistant receptacle  800  to the dispenser  10 , a pair of lips  812  may be positioned on opposing sides  814  of the opening  810  along the narrower dimension of the opening  810 . Because the narrower dimension of the opening  810  is configured to fit snugly against portions of the sidewall  204  of the base  200 , the lips  812  therefore extend below the bottom portion  202  of the base  200 , thereby preventing the dispenser  10  from passing through the opening  810 . 
     The child resistant receptacle  800  may be formed of materials including but not limited to polymer, plastic, composite, or other formable or moldable material, which provide some elasticity to allow at least the lower end  804  to be slightly deformed when an external pressure is applied to opposing sides  816  of the opening  810  along the wider dimension of the opening  810 . When deformed, the opposing sides  816  are pressed against portions of the sidewall  204  of the base  200 , which in turn causes the opposing sides  814  of the opening  810  to move away from the sidewall  204  of the base  200 , thus also causing the pair of lips  812  to also move away from the bottom portion  202  of the base  200 . In this deformed shape, the dispenser  10  may then slide out of the opening  810 , which is also shaped to allow the body  100 , the administering tool  500 , and/or the cap  600  to slide therethrough. 
     To reinsert the dispenser  10  into the child resistant receptacle  800 , an external pressure is again applied to opposing sides  816  of the opening  810  along the wider dimension of the opening  810  to deform the shape of the opening  810  until the opposing sides  814  of the opening  810  have been sufficiently spread apart to move the pair of lips  812  out of the way so that the dispenser  10  may be inserted through the opening  810 . The external pressure is applied to opposing sides  816  to maintain the opening  810  in the deformed position until the dispenser  10  has been inserted completely inside the child resistant receptacle  800  and the bottom portion  202  is above the lips  812 . The external pressure is then released, and the opening  810  returns to the original shape, which causes the opposing sides  814  of the opening  810  to move back toward and contact portions of the sidewall  204  of the base  200 , thus also causing the pair of lips  812  to be positioned below the bottom portion  202  of the base  200 . 
     In certain embodiments, portions of the sidewall  806  may include apertures  818 , which may provide access points to press the dispenser  10  down through the lower end  804  when the lower end  804  is deformed, as described above. The apertures  818  may also save on material costs to manufacture the child resistant receptacle  800 . 
     The sidewall  806  may also comprise a pair of grippers  820  located on opposing sides of the sidewall  806 . The grippers  820  may be included to provide some additional force against the body  100 , especially where the body  100  may comprise an oval or elliptical shape, and the grippers  820  are configured to be located proximate the wider dimension of the body  100 . In other embodiments, the grippers  820  may be located proximate the narrower dimension of the body  100 . The grippers  820  are also configured with an elastic design that allow the grippers  820  to bend out of the way during insertion/removal of the dispenser  10  as needed, but return to their relaxed position once the dispenser  10  has been inserted or removed. 
     In further embodiments, as best illustrated in  FIGS. 36-39 , the child resistant receptacle  800  comprises a lower portion  822  and a cap  824 . The lower portion  822  comprises the upper end  802  and the lower end  804 , and the sidewall  806  that connects the two ends  802 ,  804 . The sidewall  806  is configured to substantially surround the outer wall  102  of the body  100 , the sidewall  204  of the base  200 , and the sidewall  508  of the administering tool  500  (which may be covered by the cap  600 ). 
     In the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 36-39 , when the dispenser  10  is positioned within the lower portion  822 , the sidewall  806  is longitudinally shaped so that the upper end  802  is positioned proximate the top surface  504  of the administering tool  500  (which may be covered by the cap  600 ). The lower end  804  may have a cross-sectional shape that snugly fits over the bottom portion  202  of the base  200 . In certain embodiments, the lower end  804  may comprise the opening  810 , which may be smaller than the cross-sectional shape of the bottom portion  202  of the base  200  to prevent the dispenser  10  from sliding through the opening  810 , while at the same time providing an access point to press the dispenser  10  up through the upper end  802  when the cap  824  is removed, which is discussed in more detail below. The opening  810  may also save on material costs to manufacture the child resistant receptacle  800 . 
     The upper end  802  may further comprise the opening  808 , which may be larger than the largest cross-sectional shape of the dispenser  10  (or at least the largest cross-section shape of the dispenser  10  that is configured to fit inside the lower portion  822 ) to allow the dispenser  10  to be inserted into the lower portion  822  through the opening  808 . 
     To secure the child resistant receptacle  800  to the dispenser  10 , the cap  824  is secured to the upper end  802  of the lower portion  822 . The upper end  802  of the lower portion  822  comprises external helical threads  826  that extend around the circumference of the upper end  802 . The upper end  802  is also circumferentially segmented such that it includes a pair of diametrically opposed rigid sections  828  and a pair of diametrically opposed identical levers  830  positioned between the rigid sections  828 . The levers  830  are configured to bend inwardly when pressure is applied to an outer surface  832  of the levers  830 . In certain embodiments, the levers  830  comprise a locking tab  834  that extends from a top surface of the lever  830 . 
     The cap  824  comprises internal helical threads  836  that extend around the internal circumference of a sidewall  838  of the cap  824 . The sidewall  838  also includes a pair of diametrically opposed locking members  840  positioned above the internal helical threads  836 . Each locking member  840  comprises a leading edge  842  and a trailing edge  844 . The leading edge  842  has a somewhat gradually inclining sloped shape that facilitates movement of the locking tab  834  in the direction of the leading edge  842 , and wherein the trailing edge  844  has a squared or otherwise steep slope that resists movement of the locking tab  834  in the direction of the trailing edge  844 . 
     The child resistant receptacle  800  may be formed of materials including but not limited to polymer, plastic, composite, or other formable or moldable material. In some embodiments, the materials for the lower portion  822  may provide some elasticity to allow at least the lever  830  to be slightly deformed when an external pressure is applied and/or that have the resiliency to form a living hinge between the lever  830  and the sidewall  806 . 
     To attach the child resistant receptacle  800  to the dispenser  10 , the dispenser  10  is inserted through the opening  808  in the upper end  802  of the lower portion  822 . The cap  824  is then positioned over the upper end  802  and turned so that the complementary helical threads  826 ,  836  engage with one another. As the cap  824  is turned, the locking tabs  834  are guided over the locking members  840  by the leading edge  842 , wherein the tapered design gradually presses the levers  830  inward as the cap  824  is turned. Once the lever  830  has cleared the trailing edge  844  of the locking member  840 , the lever  830  snaps back to its original position. The shape of the trailing edge  844  engages a side of the locking tab  834  to prevent the cap  824  from turning in the opposite direction. 
     To remove the dispenser  10  from the child resistant receptacle  800 , an external pressure is applied to the levers  830 , which presses the levers  830  inward so that they are no longer engaged by the trailing edges  844  of the locking members  840 . The cap  824  can then be turned in the opposite direction, thus disengaging the complementary helical threads  826 ,  836  from one another. The cap  824  can then be removed so that the dispenser  10  can be removed through the opening  808  in the lower portion  822 . 
     In still further embodiments, as best illustrated in  FIGS. 40-43 , the child resistant receptacle  800  again comprises a lower portion  822  and a cap  824 . The lower portion  822  comprises the upper end  802  and the lower end  804 , and the sidewall  806  that connects the two ends  802 ,  804 . The sidewall  806  is configured to substantially surround the outer wall  102  of the body  100 , the sidewall  204  of the base  200 . In some embodiments, the sidewall  806  may also be configured to substantially surround the sidewall  508  of the administering tool  500  (which may be covered by the cap  600 ). 
     In the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 40-43 , when the dispenser  10  is positioned within the lower portion  822 , the sidewall  806  is longitudinally shaped so that the upper end  802  is positioned proximate the external upper rim  112 . 
     The lower end  804  may have a cross-sectional shape that snugly fits over the bottom portion  202  of the base  200 . In certain embodiments, the lower end  804  may comprise the opening  810 , which may be smaller than the cross-sectional shape of the bottom portion  202  of the base  200  to prevent the dispenser  10  from sliding through the opening  810 , while at the same time providing an access point to press the dispenser  10  up through the upper end  802  when the cap  824  is removed, which is discussed in more detail below. The opening  810  may also save on material costs to manufacture the child resistant receptacle  800 . 
     The upper end  802  may further comprise the opening  808 , which may be larger than the largest cross-sectional shape of the dispenser  10  (or at least the largest cross-section shape of the dispenser  10  that is configured to fit inside the lower portion  822 ) to allow the dispenser  10  to be inserted into the lower portion  822  through the opening  808 . 
     To secure the child resistant receptacle  800  to the dispenser  10 , the cap  824  is secured to the upper end  802  of the lower portion  822 . The upper end  802  of the lower portion  822  is circumferentially segmented such that it includes a pair of diametrically opposed rigid sections  828  and a pair of diametrically opposed identical levers  830  positioned between the rigid sections  828 . The levers  830  are configured to bend inwardly when pressure is applied to an outer surface  832  of the levers  830 . In certain embodiments, the levers  830  comprise a locking tab  834  that extends from a top surface of the lever  830 . Each locking tab  834  may comprise a leading edge  846  and a trailing edge  848 . The leading edge  846  has a somewhat gradually inclining sloped shape that is configured to allow the cap  824  to slide down over the locking tabs  834 , and wherein the trailing edge  848  has a squared or otherwise steep slope that resists movement of the cap  824  in the direction of the trailing edge  848 . 
     The cap  824  comprises a pair of diametrically opposed identical slots  850  that are shaped to receive the portion of the locking tab  834  that extends between the leading edge  846  and the trailing edge  848 . 
     The child resistant receptacle  800  may be formed of materials including but not limited to polymer, plastic, composite, or other formable or moldable material. In some embodiments, the materials for the lower portion  822  may provide some elasticity to allow at least the lever  830  to be slightly deformed when an external pressure is applied and/or that have the resiliency to form a living hinge between the lever  830  and the sidewall  806 . 
     To attach the child resistant receptacle  800  to the dispenser  10 , the dispenser  10  is inserted through the opening  808  in the upper end  802  of the lower portion  822 . The cap  824  is then positioned over the upper end  802  and pressed down so that the edge of the cap  824  gradually presses the locking tabs  834  inward as the cap  824  passes over the locking tabs  834 . As the cap  824  continues to travel down over the locking tabs  834 , the locking tabs  834  also travel along the sidewall  838  of the cap  824  until reaching the slots  850 . Once the trailing edge  848  of the locking tab  834  has cleared the sidewall  838  of the cap  824  and is positioned in the slot  850 , the lever  830  snaps back to its original position. The shape of the trailing edge  848  engages a side of the slot  850  to prevent the cap  824  from being removed from the lower portion  822 . 
     To remove the dispenser  10  from the child resistant receptacle  800 , an external pressure is applied to the levers  830 , which presses the levers  830  inward so that they are no longer engaged by the slots  850 . The cap  824  can then be removed so that the dispenser  10  can be removed through the opening  808  in the lower portion  822 . 
     Different arrangements of the components depicted in the drawings or described above, as well as components and steps not shown or described are possible. Similarly, some features and sub-combinations are useful and may be employed without reference to other features and sub-combinations. Embodiments of the invention have been described for illustrative and not restrictive purposes, and alternative embodiments will become apparent to readers of this patent. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above or depicted in the drawings, and various embodiments and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claims below.