Patent Publication Number: US-2017354787-A1

Title: Safety syringe with dose window

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. x62/348,390, entitled “Safety Syringe with Dosing Window,” filed Jun. 10, 2016, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The embodiments described herein relate to syringes and methods for administering a dose of medicament based on the subject&#39;s weight, height, age, or other characteristic. 
     Some known syringes for delivering dosages of a medicament include a syringe barrel with graduated markings and a plunger that is movable within the barrel to set the dosage and deliver the medicament. The graduated markings for such known syringes are often volumetric (i.e., they indicate the volume of the medicament within the syringe), and thus a user must calculate, convert, or otherwise determine the correct dose based on, among other things, the patient&#39;s weight, height and/or age. Additionally, the graduated markings are often very small, are sometimes provided in confusing or unfamiliar units of measure (e.g., teaspoons or milliliters), and require that the user align the plunger along the axis of motion to set the dosage. Moreover, certain medication regimens require that different amounts of the medicament be administered on different days of the treatment. Accordingly, using such known syringes and methods can result in an unacceptable level of medication error and/or “adverse drug events” because of improper dosing (delivering more or less of a drug than the prescribed amount), noncompliance with the regimen (missing a day, administering the improper amount for a given day), or the like. 
     Although such issues are prevalent with oral delivery of over-the-counter drugs, such as ibuprofen, Tylenol®, cough syrup, or the like, studies have shown that such issues also exist in hospital and clinical settings. For example, one study of adverse drug events at hospitals estimated that although a large number of adverse drug events occurred at the ordering stage, many occurred at the administering stage. Bates, D. W., et al., “Incidence of Adverse Drug Events and Potential Adverse Drug Events,” Journal of the American Medical Association, Jul. 5, 1995, Vol. 274, No. 1, pp. 29-30. Another study evaluating the ability of  100  registered nurses to calculate the correct dosage for oral, intramuscular, and intravenous drugs showed an average error rate of about 20 percent or higher, depending on the type of delivery mechanism. Bindler, et al., “Medication Calculation Ability of Registered Nurses,” Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 1991, 23:221-224. 
     One proposed solution to reduce medication error and/or “adverse drug events” is to deliver a predetermined dosage via a single-use prefilled syringe or cartridge. Although convenient for some drugs and/or therapeutic regimens, prefilled syringes are expensive, cumbersome to store, and impractical for many drugs (e.g., over-the-counter painkillers). Moreover, unless a caregiver maintains an inventory of prefilled syringes tailored to a variety of different patients (e.g., weight, age range, or the like), the use of prefilled syringes will still require that the user calculate, convert or otherwise determine the correct dose to be administered. 
     Other delivery devices for administering dosages, such as insulin pens, include dose-setting mechanisms that include rotatable caps or plungers, bulky multi-part container holders, and the like. Although these devices may be suitable for certain drugs and/or therapeutic regimens, such as chronic care situations (e.g., delivery of insulin), such known devices are impractical for many other drugs and/or therapeutic regimens. For example, administering an over-the-counter cold medicine via an expensive pen injector that requires adherence to specific instructions for use is impractical. 
     Thus, a need exists for improved methods and devices for easily and accurately delivering medicaments via a syringe. 
     SUMMARY 
     Syringes for delivering a dose of medicament are described herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a syringe body, a plunger, a cap, and a dose gauge. The syringe body defines a volume configured to contain a medicament. The dose gauge is disposed about at least a portion of a side wall of the syringe body, and defines a window. The cap is coupled to a proximal end portion of the syringe body, and includes an engagement portion. The plunger has a distal end portion configured to move within the volume of the syringe body to convey the medicament. An engagement portion of the plunger is configured to interface with the engagement portion of the cap to prevent rotation of the plunger about a longitudinal axis of the plunger. An outer surface of the plunger includes a series of indicia. At least one of the indicium is visible through the window of the dose gauge when the plunger is in a first position within the volume of the syringe body. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is an exploded view schematic illustration of a syringe assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  is a top view of a portion of the syringe assembly shown in  FIG. 1 , taken along the line X-X in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIGS. 3-4  are schematic illustrations of the syringe assembly shown in  FIG. 1 , in a first and second configuration, respectively. 
         FIG. 5  is an exploded view schematic illustration of a syringe assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the syringe assembly shown in  FIG. 5 , taken along the line X-X in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is a front view schematic illustrations of the syringe assembly shown in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIGS. 8 and 9  are a front perspective view and a rear perspective view, respectively, of a syringe assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIGS. 10 and 11  are a front exploded view and a rear exploded view, respectively, of the syringe assembly shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 . 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a syringe body of the syringe assembly shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 . 
         FIGS. 13 and 14  are a front perspective view and a rear perspective view, respectively, of the dose gauge of the syringe assembly shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 . 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of the elastomeric member of the syringe assembly shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 . 
         FIGS. 16 and 17  are a front perspective view and a rear perspective view, respectively, of the plunger of the syringe assembly shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 . 
         FIGS. 18-20  are a front perspective view, a bottom perspective view, and a top view, respectively, of the cap of the syringe assembly shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 . 
         FIG. 21  is a front view of the syringe assembly shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9  with the plunger in a first position. 
         FIGS. 22 and 23  are a front perspective view and a rear perspective view, respectively, of a syringe assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIGS. 24 and 25  are a front perspective view and a rear perspective view, respectively, of the dose gauge of the syringe assembly shown in  FIGS. 22 and 23 . 
         FIG. 26  is a flow chart of a method of assembling a syringe assembly, according to an embodiment. 
         FIG. 27  is a front view of a package for a syringe assembly, according to an embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Syringes for delivering a dose of medicament are described herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a syringe body, a plunger, a cap, and a dose gauge. The syringe body defines a volume configured to contain a medicament. The dose gauge is disposed about at least a portion of a side wall of the syringe body, and defines a window. The cap is coupled to a proximal end portion of the syringe body, and includes an engagement portion. The plunger has a distal end portion configured to move within the volume of the syringe body to convey the medicament. An engagement portion of the plunger is configured to interface with the engagement portion of the cap to prevent rotation of the plunger about a longitudinal axis of the plunger. An outer surface of the plunger includes a series of indicia. At least one of the indicium is visible through the window of the dose gauge when the plunger is in a first position within the volume of the syringe body. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a syringe body and a plunger. The syringe body defines a volume configured to contain a medicament. A distal end portion of the syringe body includes a delivery tip. A proximal end portion of the syringe body defines a first opening through which the volume can be accessed. The proximal end portion of the syringe body includes a cap having a distal surface and a proximal surface, the proximal surface extending above the first opening. The cap defines a second opening between the proximal surface and the distal surface. A central axis of the second opening is nonparallel to a central axis of the first opening. The syringe body further includes a dose gauge disposed about a side wall of the syringe body, and that defines a window. The plunger has a distal end portion configured to move within the volume of the syringe body from a first position to a second position to convey the medicament. An outer surface of the plunger includes a series of indicia, with at least one indicium from the series being visible through the window of the dose gauge when the plunger is in the first position. The second opening of the cap is sized such that the distal end portion of the plunger can be removed from the volume of the syringe body via the second opening. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a syringe body, a plunger, a dose gauge, and a cap. The syringe body defines a volume configured to contain a medicament. A proximal end portion of the syringe body includes a flange, and a distal end portion of the syringe body includes a delivery tip. The plunger has a distal end portion configured to move within the volume of the syringe body to convey the medicament. An outer surface of the plunger includes a series of indicia. The dose gauge is coupled to the flange of the syringe body and defines a window. When the plunger moves within the syringe body, at least one indicium from the series of indicia is visible through the window of the dose gauge. The cap is coupled to the flange of the dose gauge and/or the flange of the syringe body, and has an engagement portion that is configured to interface with an engagement portion of the plunger to limit rotation of the plunger about a longitudinal axis of the plunger. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a syringe body, a plunger, and a dose gauge. The syringe body defines a volume configured to contain a medicament. A proximal end portion of the syringe body includes an engagement portion and a flange, and a distal end portion of the syringe body includes a delivery tip. The plunger has a distal end portion configured to move within the volume of the syringe body to convey the medicament. An engagement portion of the plunger is configured to interface with the engagement portion of the syringe body to limit rotation of the plunger about a longitudinal axis of the plunger. An outer surface of the plunger includes a series of indicia. The dose gauge is coupled to the flange of the syringe body and the dose gauge defines a window. When the plunger moves within the syringe body, at least one indicium from the series of indicia can be seen through the window of the dose gauge. 
     In some embodiments, a plunger can include a series of non-volumetric indicia. The non-volumetric indicia can be associated with a patient&#39;s weight, height, age and/or any other suitable dose-setting characteristic. In some embodiments, the series of indicia can be arranged coaxially along a longitudinal axis of the plunger. 
     In some embodiments, a kit includes a medicament container and a syringe assembly. The medicament container contains at least one dose of a medicament and defines an opening. The syringe assembly includes a syringe body, a plunger, a dose gauge, and a cap. The syringe body defines a volume configured to contain a medicament. A proximal end portion of the syringe body includes a flange and a distal end portion of the syringe body includes a delivery tip. The plunger has a distal end portion configured to move within the volume of the syringe body to convey the medicament. An outer surface of the plunger includes a series of indicia. The dose gauge is coupled to the flange of the syringe body and the dose gauge defines a window. When the plunger moves within the syringe body, the indicia of the plunger can be seen through the window of the dose gauge. The cap is coupled to the flange of the dose gauge and the flange of the syringe body. The cap has an engagement portion that is configured to interface with an engagement portion of the plunger to limit rotation of the plunger about a longitudinal axis of the plunger. 
     In some embodiments, the kit further includes a lock member removably coupled to the proximal end portion of the syringe body and a proximal end portion of the plunger. The lock member is configured to limit movement of the distal end portion of the plunger within the syringe body. The lock member includes an instruction indicia, such as, for example, drug labeling, warnings, or the like. 
     In some embodiments, a method includes inserting a delivery tip of a syringe body, which defines an internal volume therein, into a medicament container. The medicament container is then turned upside down. A plunger is moved in a proximal direction within the internal volume of the syringe body to convey the medicament from the medicament container into the internal volume of the syringe body. The moving is performed until a dose indicium from a plurality of dose indicia on the plunger is visible through a window of a dose gauge. For example, the moving is performed until the correct weight range of a patient is visible in the window of the dose gauge. The plunger includes an engagement portion configured to interface with an engagement portion of the syringe body or a cap to limit rotation of the plunger about a longitudinal axis of the plunger during the moving. The delivery tip of the syringe body is then removed from the medicament container and placed in the mouth of a patient. The plunger is then moved in a distal direction within the internal volume of the syringe body to convey the medicament from the internal volume via the delivery tip into the patient&#39;s mouth. 
     In some embodiments, a method of assembling a syringe includes coupling a dose gauge about a side wall of a syringe body. The syringe body defines a volume configured to contain a medicament, and has a distal end portion including a delivery tip. The dose gauge defines a window. A cap is coupled to a proximal end portion of the syringe body. The cap includes a distal surface and a proximal surface. The cap defines a lateral opening between the proximal surface and the distal surface. A distal end portion of a plunger is disposed into the volume via the lateral opening. An outer surface of the plunger includes a series of indicia. At least one indicium from the series is visible through the window of the dose gauge when the plunger is moved in a distal direction within the volume. 
     The term “about” when used in connection with a referenced numeric indication means the referenced numeric indication plus or minus up to 10 percent of that referenced numeric indication. For example, “about 100” means from 90 to 110. 
     As used in this specification, the words “proximal” and “distal” refer to direction closer to and away from, respectively, an operator of the medical device. Thus, for example, the end of the syringe assembly contacting the patient&#39;s body (e.g., being inserted into the mouth, supporting a needle, or the like) would be the distal end of the syringe assembly, while the end opposite the distal end would be the proximal end of the syringe assembly. 
     Further, specific words chosen to describe one or more embodiments and optional elements or features are not intended to limit the invention. For example, spatially relative terms—such as “beneath”, “below”, “lower”, “above”, “upper”, “proximal”, “distal”, and the like—may be used to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as illustrated in the figures. These spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different positions (i.e., translational placements) and orientations (i.e., rotational placements) of a device in use or operation, in addition to the position and orientation shown in the figures. For example, if a device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be “above” or “over” the other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” can encompass both positions and orientations of above and below. A device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Likewise, descriptions of movement along (translation) and around (rotation) various axes includes various spatial device positions and orientations. The combination of a body&#39;s position and orientation define the body&#39;s pose. 
     Similarly, geometric terms, such as “parallel”, “perpendicular”, “round”, or “square”, are not intended to require absolute mathematical precision, unless the context indicates otherwise. Instead, such geometric terms allow for variations due to manufacturing or equivalent functions. For example, if an element is described as “round” or “generally round,” a component that is not precisely circular (e.g., one that is slightly oblong or is a many-sided polygon) is still encompassed by this description. As another example, two structures described herein as being “substantially parallel” is intended to convey that, although a parallel geometric relationship is desirable, some non-parallelism can occur in a “substantially parallel” arrangement. As yet another example, a structure defining a volume that is “substantially 0.50 milliliters (mL)” is intended to convey that, while the recited volume is desirable, some tolerances can occur when the volume is “substantially” the recited volume (e.g., 0.50 mL). Such tolerances can result from manufacturing tolerances, measurement tolerances, and/or other practical considerations (such as, for example, minute imperfections, age of a structure so defined, a pressure or a force exerted within a system, and/or the like). As described above, a suitable tolerance can be, for example, of ±10% of the stated geometric construction, numerical value, and/or range. Furthermore, although a numerical value modified by the term “substantially” can allow for and/or otherwise encompass a tolerance of the stated numerical value, it is not intended to exclude the exact numerical value stated. 
     As used herein, the term “set” can refer to multiple features or a singular feature with multiple parts. For example, when referring to set of walls, the set of walls can be considered as one wall with multiple portions, or the set of walls can be considered as multiple, distinct walls. Thus, a monolithically-constructed item can include a set of walls. Such a set of walls can include, for example, multiple portions that are either continuous or discontinuous from each other. A set of walls can also be fabricated from multiple items that are produced separately and are later joined together (e.g., via a weld, an adhesive, or any suitable method). 
     As used in this specification, the term “medicament” includes any constituent of a therapeutic substance. A medicament can include such constituents regardless of their state of matter (e.g., solid, liquid or gas). Moreover, a medicament can include the multiple constituents that can be included in a therapeutic substance in a mixed state, in an unmixed state and/or in a partially mixed state. A medicament can include both the active constituents and inert constituents of a therapeutic substance. Accordingly, as used herein, a medicament can include non-active constituents such as, water, colorant or the like. 
     The term “fluid-tight” is understood to encompass hermetic sealing (i.e., a seal that is gas-impervious) as well as a seal that is only liquid-impervious. The term “substantially” when used in connection with “fluid-tight,” “gas-impervious,” and/or “liquid-impervious” is intended to convey that, while total fluid imperviousness is desirable, some minimal leakage due to manufacturing tolerances, or other practical considerations (such as, for example, the pressure applied to the seal and/or within the fluid), can occur even in a “substantially fluid- tight” seal. Thus, a “substantially fluid-tight” seal includes a seal that prevents the passage of a fluid (including gases, liquids and/or slurries) therethrough when the seal is maintained at pressures of less than about 5 psig. Any residual fluid layer that may be present on a portion of a wall of a container after component defining a “substantially-fluid tight” seal are moved past the portion of the wall are not considered as leakage. 
     The term “opaque” is understood to include structures (such as portions of a syringe body) that are not transparent and/or that do not permit an object to be clearly or distinctly seen through the structure. The term “opaque” or “substantially opaque” or “semi-opaque” when used in connection with the description of a side wall of a syringe body or any other structure described herein is intended to convey that objects cannot be clearly seen through the side wall. A side wall (or portion thereof) described as being “opaque” or “substantially opaque” or “semi-opaque” is understood to include structures that may have a blocking color, or that may not have a color, but that are otherwise hazy, blurry, smeared, textured or the like. 
       FIGS. 1-4  are schematic illustrations of a syringe assembly  100 , according to an embodiment that includes a syringe body  110 , a dose gauge  170 , a cap  160 , and a plunger  140 .  FIG. 1  shows an exploded view of the syringe assembly  100  to illustrate the syringe body  110  and the plunger  140 .  FIG. 2  shows a top view of the cap  160  and the syringe body  110  taken along the line X-X in  FIG. 1 .  FIGS. 3-4  show the syringe assembly  100  in a first and a second configuration, respectively. The syringe body  110  includes a side wall  115 , and defines an interior volume  118  within which a medicament can be contained. The syringe body  110  includes a proximal end portion  112 , a distal end portion  114 , and defines a longitudinal axis A L . When the plunger  140  is disposed within the syringe body  110 , the longitudinal axis A L  of the syringe body  110  is coaxial with the longitudinal axis A L  of the plunger  140 . Thus, the longitudinal axis A L  shown and described can be considered the longitudinal axis for the syringe body  110 , the plunger  140 , or both the syringe body  110  and the plunger  140 . 
     The distal end portion  114  of the syringe body  110  has a delivery tip  132 . The delivery tip  132  can be any suitable tip or member through which the medicament can be conveyed either into or out of the internal volume  118  of the syringe body  110 . In some embodiments, the delivery tip  132  can be a protrusion extending from the syringe body  110  that can be received within a medicament container (e.g., bottle, vial or the like) and that can also deliver the medicament orally to the patient. In other embodiments, the delivery tip  132  can a tapered fitting (such as a Luer fitting) that is adapted to couple the distal end portion  114  of the syringe body  110  to a needle (not shown). 
     In some embodiments, the syringe body  110  (and any of the syringe bodies described herein) can be constructed from a clear material (e.g., plastic or glass), and can include markings or graduated lines on the outer surface of the side wall  115 . In some embodiments, the syringe body  110  (and any of the syringe bodies described herein) can include an opaque label (not shown) that defines one or more transparent windows through which a user can view the medicament or any other contents (e.g., the plunger  140 ) within the internal volume  118 . In other embodiments, the syringe body  110  (and any of the syringe bodies described herein) can include a monolithically constructed opaque or semi-opaque portion. Such portions can include a light blocking color, or can be devoid of color, but can otherwise by hazy, blurred or textured to prevent medicament or other contents within the internal volume  118  from being clearly seen. 
     The dose gauge  170  is coupled about at least a portion of the side wall  115  of the syringe body  110 , and defines a window  176 . In particular, the dose gauge  170  is coupled about a transparent portion of the side wall  115  so that portions of the plunger  140  (i.e., the indicia  146 ) within the syringe body  110  can be seen through the window  176 . In this manner, as described in more detail below, the dose gauge  170  and the plunger  140  can provide a visual indication of the dosage of medicament drawn into the syringe body  110 . In some embodiments, a portion of the dose gauge  170  surrounding the window  176  is opaque, or otherwise includes a visible frame (not shown) that surrounds the window  176 . In this manner, during use, the indicia  146  displayed within the window  176  are clearly accentuated to the user. Moreover, in some embodiments, an outer surface of the dose gauge  170  can include instructions or indicia (not shown) associated with the medicament, dose, and/or treatment regimen. Such instructions or indicia can include, for example, the characteristic of the patient to be considered when setting the dosage (e.g., “child&#39;s weight”), alignment marks or arrows, identification of the regimen (e.g., “day 2”), and/or the drug name. 
     The window  176  can be a portion of the dose gauge that is devoid of material. In other embodiments, however, the window  176  can include a transparent material through which a user can view the indicia  146 . Moreover, the window  176  can be of any suitable size and/or shape. 
     Thus, although shown as being elliptical, in other embodiments, the window  176  can be rectangular. Moreover, although the window  176  is shown as being sized such that only one indicium  146  from the series of indicia is visible through the window at a time, in other embodiments, the dose gauge  170  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can include a window through which multiple indicia can be viewed at a time. In yet other embodiments, the dose gauge  170  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can include more than one window. 
     Although the dose gauge  170  is shown as extending only a portion of the length of the syringe body  110 , in other embodiments, the dose gauge  170  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can have a length that is substantially the same as the syringe body  110  (i.e., can extend substantially the full length of the syringe body  110 ). Moreover, the dose gauge  170  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can extend around any portion of the circumference of the syringe body  110 . For example, in some embodiments, the dose gauge  170  can extend around the full circumference of the syringe body  110 . In this manner, the window  176  can be disposed about one portion of the syringe body  110  and other portions (e.g., opaque portions) of the dose gauge  170  can be disposed about another portion of the syringe body. By covering certain portions of the syringe body  110 , the user can more easily identify the visual dose indication. In other embodiments, however, the dose gauge  170  can extend around only a portion of the circumference of the syringe body  110 . For example, in some embodiments, the dose gauge  170  can extend around about three quarters of the circumference (about 270 degrees). In other embodiments, the dose gauge  170  can extend around about one half to three quarters of the circumference (from about 180 degrees to about 270 degrees). In other embodiments, the dose gauge  170  can extend around about one quarter to one half of the circumference (from about 90 degrees to about 180 degrees). In this manner, the window  176  can be disposed about one portion of the syringe body  110  and other portions of the syringe body  110  can be exposed. By exposing certain portion (e.g., the “back side) of the syringe body  110 , the user can visually inspect the medicament in the syringe body  110  for air bubbles, the correct color, and the like. 
     The dose gauge  170  can be coupled to the syringe body  110  in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the dose gauge  170  can be bonded to the side wall  115  of the syringe body  110  (e.g., via an adhesive, a weld joint or the like). In other embodiments, the dose gauge  170  can be coupled to the cap  160  or a flange (not shown) of the syringe body  110  to couple the dose gauge  170  about the side wall  115 . As discussed below, by indexing the dose gauge  170  to the cap  160 , the dose gauge  170  can be maintained in a fixed location along the longitudinal axis A L  of the syringe body  110 , thereby producing an accurate and repeatable indication of the dose amount when the indicia  146  of the plunger  140  are aligned within the window  176 . In yet other embodiments, the dose gauge  170  is snapped into place over a portion of the syringe body  110  (i.e., via an interference fit). 
     The cap  160  is coupled to the proximal end portion  112  of the syringe body  110 , and defines an opening through which the internal volume  118  of the syringe body  110  can be accessed. Moreover, as shown in  FIG. 2 , the cap  160  includes an engagement portion  164 , which can be any suitable structure or mechanism to engage and/or interface with a corresponding engagement portion  148  of the plunger  140  to limit rotation of the plunger  140  within the syringe body  110  about the longitudinal axis LA. For example, as shown, the engagement portion  164  can include a protrusion configured to be disposed within a corresponding groove  148  of the plunger  140 . In other embodiments, the engagement portion  164  can include a recessed portion configured to receive a protrusion of the plunger  140 . In yet other embodiments, the engagement portion  164  can include a splined surface that interfaces with a corresponding splined surface of the plunger  140  to limit, reduce and/or prevent rotation of the plunger  140  within the syringe body  110 . 
     The cap  160  can be coupled to the syringe body  110  in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the cap  160  can be bonded to the side wall  115  of the syringe body  110  (e.g., via an adhesive, a weld joint or the like). In other embodiments, the cap  160  can be coupled to the dose gauge  170  or a flange (not shown) of the syringe body  110  to couple the cap  160  to the side wall  115 . In yet other embodiments, the cap  160  is snapped into place over the proximal end portion  112  of the syringe body  110  (i.e., via an interference fit). 
     The plunger  140  has a proximal end portion  142  and a distal end portion  144 . The distal end portion  144  of the plunger  140  is configured to move within the interior volume  118  of the syringe body  110  to convey a medicament. More particularly, as described in more detail below, the distal end portion  144  can reciprocate within the syringe body  110  along the longitudinal axis L A  to convey the medicament into the volume  118  (as shown in  FIG. 3 ), and convey the medicament out of the volume  118  (as shown by the arrow CC in  FIG. 4 ). In some embodiments, the distal end portion  144  includes an elastomeric member defining a fluid-tight (or substantially fluid-tight) seal with the side wall  115  of the syringe body  110 . 
     The plunger  140  includes an engagement portion  148  configured to interface with the engagement portion  164  of the syringe body  110  to limit rotation of the plunger  140  about its longitudinal axis A L . The engagement portion  148  can be any suitable structure or mechanism to engage and/or interface with the engagement portion  164  of the syringe body  110  to limit rotation of the plunger  140  within the syringe body  110  about the longitudinal axis A L . For example, as shown, the engagement portion  148  can be a recessed portion configured to receive the protrusion  164  of the cap  160 . In other embodiments, the engagement portion  148  can include a protrusion configured to be disposed within a corresponding groove of the cap  160  or the syringe body  110 . In yet other embodiments, the engagement portion  148  can include a splined surface that interfaces with a corresponding splined surface of the cap  160  to limit, reduce and/or prevent rotation of the plunger  140  within the syringe body  110 . 
     The plunger  140  includes an outer surface  145  having a series of indicia  146 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , at least one of the indicium from the series of indicia  146  is visible through the window  176  of the syringe body  110  when the plunger  140  is in the first position. In this manner, the indicia  146  can provide a visual indication of the dosage of medicament drawn into the syringe body  110 . More specifically, because the indicia  146  are in a fixed position on the plunger  140  and the window  176  of the dose gauge  170  is in a fixed position on the syringe body  110 , the position of the plunger  140  within the syringe body  110  at which one of the indicium  146  is visible via the window  176  corresponds to a volume (i.e., dosage volume) within the syringe body  110 . In some embodiments, the indicia  146  can be non-volumetric indicia that correspond to a characteristic of the patient. For example, in some embodiments, the indicia  146  can correspond to a weight, height, age, target body weight, and/or body mass index (BMI) of the patient. In other embodiments, the indicia  146  can correspond to a test result associated with the patient, including, for example, a range of blood sugar (e.g., for insulin dosage) or any other suitable test result. In this manner, a user can withdraw a dosage of medicament without the need for calculation or conversion to determine the volumetric amount. 
     In some embodiments, the series of indicia  146  can include both a series of dosage amounts (e.g., a series of weight ranges corresponding the desired dosage) and one or more instructions. For example, in some embodiments, one indicia from the series of indicia  146  can be configured and/or position to be visible via (or appear within) the window  176  when the syringe assembly  100  is in a “ready” (or empty) state (i.e., with the plunger  140  in the second position). In this manner, an indicium can be visible via the window  176  when the plunger  140  is in the distal-most position within the syringe body  110 . In some embodiments, an instruction indicia  146  can include an identification of the drug with which the syringe assembly  100  should be used. In this manner, the instruction indicia  146  can minimize the likelihood that the syringe assembly  100  will be used with an improper medicament. 
     The series of indicia  146  can be arranged along the outer surface  145  in any suitable manner or orientation. For example, in some embodiments, the series of indicia  146  is arranged coaxially along the longitudinal axis A L . In this manner, when the plunger  140  is reciprocated along the longitudinal axis A L  within the internal volume  118  of the syringe body  110 , each of the indicia  146  will be visible through the window  176  of the dose gauge  170  at a given plunger position. 
     In use, the distal end portion  144  of the plunger  140  can be reciprocated within the syringe body  110  along the longitudinal axis A L  to convey a medicament into and/or out of the internal volume  118  of the syringe body  110 . In the initial configuration, the plunger  140  is positioned at its distal-most position within the syringe body  110  (i.e., in the second position). To prepare a dose of the medicament for delivery, the delivery tip  132  is placed in fluid communication with a source of medicament (e.g., a medicament container, not shown in  FIGS. 1-4 ), and the plunger  140  is moved proximally, as shown by the arrow AA in  FIG. 3 . The movement of the distal end portion  144  of the plunger  140  within the syringe body  110  increases the internal volume  118 , which, in turn, produces a vacuum that draws the medicament  105  into the syringe body  110 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , the plunger  140  is moved proximally until an indicium  146  (the indicia “XX”) is visible through the window  176  of the dose gauge  170 . In this manner, the syringe assembly  100  is placed in its second (or “dosage set”) configuration (and the plunger  140  is in a first position within the syringe body  110 ). The indicium  146  (indicated as “XX”) can be, for example, a dose indicia. In some embodiments, the second indicium  146  can be a non-volumetric indicium (e.g., a weight range, a height range and/or an age range of the patient). In this manner, the user can easily set the desired dosage by withdrawing the plunger  140  until the indicium  146  (indicated as “XX”) is visible within the window  176  of the dose gauge  170 . This arrangement allows the dosage to be set without the need for calculation, conversion or consideration of the patient&#39;s characteristics to a volumetric measurement. 
     As described above, during the movement of the plunger  140 , the engagement portion  148  of the plunger  140  interfaces with the engagement portion  164  of the cap  160  to limit rotation of the plunger  140  about the longitudinal axis A L  of the plunger. In this manner, the indicia  146  remain radially aligned with the window  176  of the dose gauge  170 , thus ensuring that the indicia  146  will be visible through the window  176  of the dose gauge  170  when the plunger  140  is in the corresponding longitudinal position within the syringe body  110 . 
     To deliver the dosage withdrawn, the user then places the delivery tip  132  in the desired location (e.g., in the patient&#39;s mouth) and moves the plunger  140  distally, as shown by the arrow BB in  FIG. 4 . The movement of the distal end portion  144  of the plunger  140  within the syringe body  110  decreases the internal volume  118 , which, in turn, produces a pressure that conveys the medicament out of the syringe body  110  as shown by the arrow CC in  FIG. 4 . This movement places the syringe assembly  100  in its third (or dose delivered) configuration. 
     In some embodiments, the syringe assembly  100  can be cleaned for reuse by repeatedly reciprocating the plunger  140  within the syringe body  110  to rinse with water, saline solution or the like. In other embodiments, the syringe assembly  100  can be disassembled for cleaning (e.g., by decoupling the engagement portion  148  of the plunger  140  from the engagement portion  164  of the cap  160 ), in any suitable manner, as described herein. In other embodiments, a plunger of syringe assembly need not be engaged with a cap or syringe body throughout the range of motion of the plunger. In some embodiments, for example, a cap can include multiple openings through which the plunger is moved to be placed into and/or removed from within the syringe body. For example,  FIGS. 5-7  are schematic illustrations of a syringe assembly  200 , according to an embodiment that includes a syringe body  210  and a plunger  240 .  FIG. 5  shows an exploded view of the syringe assembly  200  to illustrate the syringe body  210  and the plunger  240 .  FIG. 6  shows a top view of a cap  260  and the syringe body  210  taken along the line X-X in  FIG. 2 .  FIG. 7  shows the syringe assembly  200  in a first (or dosage set) configuration. The syringe body  210  includes a side wall  215 , and defines an interior volume  218  within which a medicament can be contained. The syringe body  210  includes a proximal end portion  212 , a distal end portion  214 , and defines a longitudinal axis A L . When the plunger  240  is disposed within the syringe body  210  ( FIG. 7 ), the longitudinal axis A L  of the syringe body  210  is coaxial with the longitudinal axis A L  of the plunger  240 . Thus, the longitudinal axis A L  shown and described can be considered the longitudinal axis for the syringe body  210 , the plunger  240 , or both the syringe body  210  and the plunger  240 . 
     The distal end portion  214  of the syringe body  210  has a delivery tip  232 . The delivery tip  232  can be any suitable tip or member through which the medicament can be conveyed either into or out of the internal volume  218  of the syringe body  210 . In some embodiments, the delivery tip  232  can be a protrusion extending from the syringe body  210  that can be received within a medicament container (e.g., bottle, vial or the like) and that can also deliver the medicament orally to the patient. In other embodiments, the delivery tip  232  can a tapered fitting (such as a Luer fitting) that is adapted to couple the distal end portion  214  of the syringe body  210  to a needle (not shown). 
     The proximal end portion  212  of the syringe body  210  includes a cap  260  and a dose gauge  270 , and defines an opening (also referred to as a first opening)  268 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , the volume  218  of the syringe body  210  can be accessed through the opening  268 . Moreover, the opening is aligned with the constant cross-sectional shape of the volume  218 . Similarly stated, the opening  268  defines a central axis (i.e., and axis that is normal to a plane defined by the opening) that is coaxial with the longitudinal axis A L  of the syringe body  210 . Thus, referring to  FIG. 5 , the longitudinal axis A L  is normal to and is the central axis of the opening  268 . 
     The cap  260  includes a distal surface  265  and a proximal surface  263 . The distal surface  265  can be, for example, a flange or shoulder that accommodates the user&#39;s fingers to actuate the syringe assembly  200 . In some embodiments, the cap  260  can be a separately constructed component (i.e., from the syringe body  210 ) that is coupled to the proximal end portion  212  of the syringe body  210  via a portion of the distal surface  265 . For example, in some embodiments, a portion of the distal surface  265  can be adhesively coupled to the syringe body  210 . In other embodiments, however, the cap  260  can be monolithically constructed with the syringe body  210 . In some embodiments, the distal surface  265  defines an opening (not shown) that is aligned with the opening  268  of the syringe body  210 . 
     The proximal surface  263  of the cap  260  extends above the opening  268  of the syringe body  210 . In this manner, the cap  260  provides a covering over at least a portion of the opening  268 . The proximal surface  263  can also provide a surface against which a proximal end portion  242  of the plunger  240  can contact during use. The cap  260  defines a lateral opening (also referred to as a second opening)  267  between the distal surface  265  and the proximal surface  263 . As described in more detail herein, the lateral opening  267  provides a passageway through which the distal end portion  244  of the plunger  240  can be moved when the distal end portion  244  is disposed into the volume  218  of the syringe body. As shown in  FIG. 5 , the lateral opening  267  defines a central axis A LAT  that is normal to a plane defined by the lateral opening  267 . The central axis A LAT  is nonparallel to the central axis of the first opening  268 . 
     The dose gauge  270  is coupled about at least a portion of the side wall  215  of the syringe body  210 , and defines a window  276 . In particular, the dose gauge  270  is coupled about a transparent portion of the side wall  215  so that portions of the plunger  240  (i.e., the indicia  246 ) within the syringe body  210  can be seen through the window  276 . In this manner, as described in more detail below, the dose gauge  270  and the plunger  240  can provide a visual indication of the dosage of medicament drawn into the syringe body  210 . In some embodiments, a portion of the dose gauge  270  surrounding the window  276  is opaque, or otherwise includes a visible frame (not shown) that surrounds the window  276 . In this manner, during use, the indicia  246  displayed within the window  276  are clearly accentuated to the user. Moreover, in some embodiments, an outer surface of the dose gauge  270  can include instructions or indicia (not shown) associated with the medicament, dose, and/or treatment regimen. Such instructions or indicia can include, for example, the characteristic of the patient to be considered when setting the dosage (e.g., “child&#39;s weight”), alignment marks or arrows, identification of the regimen (e.g., “day 2”), and/or the drug name. 
     The window  276  can be a portion of the dose gauge that is devoid of material. In other embodiments, however, the window  276  can include a transparent material through which a user can view the indicia  246 . Moreover, the window  276  can be of any suitable size and/or shape. Thus, although shown as being elliptical, in other embodiments, the window  276  can be rectangular. Moreover, although the window  276  is shown as being sized such that only one indicium  246  from the series of indicia is visible through the window at a time, in other embodiments, the dose gauge  270  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can include a window through which multiple indicia can be viewed at a time. In yet other embodiments, the dose gauge  270  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can include more than one window. 
     Although the dose gauge  270  is shown as extending only a portion of the length of the syringe body  210 , in other embodiments, the dose gauge  270  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can have a length that is substantially the same as the syringe body  210  (i.e., can extend substantially the full length of the syringe body  210 ). Moreover, the dose gauge  270  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can extend around any portion of the circumference of the syringe body  210 . For example, in some embodiments, the dose gauge  270  can extend around the full circumference of the syringe body  210 . In this manner, the window  276  can be disposed about one portion of the syringe body  210  and other portions (e.g., opaque portions) of the dose gauge  270  can be disposed about another portion of the syringe body. By covering certain portions of the syringe body  210 , the user can more easily identify the visual dose indication. In other embodiments, however, the dose gauge  270  can extend around only a portion of the circumference of the syringe body  210 . For example, in some embodiments, the dose gauge  270  can extend around about three quarters of the circumference (about 270 degrees). In other embodiments, the dose gauge  270  can extend around about one half to three quarters of the circumference (from about 280 degrees to about 270 degrees). In other embodiments, the dose gauge  270  can extend around about one quarter to one half of the circumference (from about 90 degrees to about 280 degrees). In this manner, the window  276  can be disposed about one portion of the syringe body  210  and other portions of the syringe body  210  can be exposed. By exposing certain portion (e.g., the “back side) of the syringe body  210 , the user can visually inspect the medicament in the syringe body  210  for air bubbles, the correct color, and the like. 
     The dose gauge  270  can be coupled to the syringe body  210  in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the dose gauge  270  can be bonded to the side wall  215  of the syringe body  210  (e.g., via an adhesive, a weld joint or the like). In other embodiments, the dose gauge  270  can be coupled to the cap  260  or a flange (not shown) of the syringe body  210  to couple the dose gauge  270  about the side wall  215 . As discussed below, by indexing the dose gauge  270  to the cap  260 , the dose gauge  270  can be maintained in a fixed location along the longitudinal axis A L  of the syringe body  210 , thereby producing an accurate and repeatable indication of the dose amount when the indicia  246  of the plunger  240  are aligned within the window  276 . In yet other embodiments, the dose gauge  270  is snapped into place over a portion of the syringe body  210  (i.e., via an interference fit). In still other embodiments, the dose gauge  270  and the cap  260  can be monolithically constructed, and can be coupled to the syringe body  210  in one operation. In other embodiments, the dose gauge  270  and the syringe body  210  can be monolithically constructed. In other embodiments, the dose gauge  210 , the cap, and the syringe body  210  can be monolithically constructed. 
     In some embodiments, the syringe body  210  (and any of the syringe bodies described herein) can be constructed from a clear material (e.g., plastic or glass), and can include markings or graduated lines on the outer surface of the side wall  215 . In some embodiments, the syringe body  210  (and any of the syringe bodies described herein) can include an opaque label (not shown) that defines one or more transparent windows through which a user can view the medicament or any other contents (e.g., the plunger  240 ) within the internal volume  218 . In other embodiments, the syringe body  210  (and any of the syringe bodies described herein) can include a monolithically constructed opaque or semi-opaque portion. Such portions can include a light blocking color, or can be devoid of color, but can otherwise by hazy, blurred or textured to prevent medicament or other contents within the internal volume  218  from being clearly seen. 
     The plunger  240  has a proximal end portion  242  and a distal end portion  244 . The distal end portion  244  of the plunger  240  is configured to move within the interior volume  218  of the syringe body  210  to convey a medicament. More particularly, as described in more detail below, the distal end portion  244  can reciprocate within the syringe body  210  along the longitudinal axis L A  to convey the medicament into and out of the volume  218 . In some embodiments, the distal end portion  244  includes an elastomeric member defining a fluid-tight (or substantially fluid-tight) seal with the side wall  215  of the syringe body  210 . 
     The plunger  240  includes an outer surface  245  having a series of indicia  246 . As shown in  FIG. 7 , at least one of the indicium from the series of indicia  246  is visible through the window  276  of the syringe body  210  when the plunger  240  is in the first (i.e., dose ready) position. In this manner, the indicia  246  can provide a visual indication of the dosage of medicament drawn into the syringe body  210 . More specifically, because the indicia  246  are in a fixed position on the plunger  240  and the window  276  of the dose gauge  270  is in a fixed position on the syringe body  210 , the position of the plunger  240  within the syringe body  210  at which one of the indicium  246  is visible via the window  276  corresponds to a volume (i.e., dosage volume) within the syringe body  210 . In some embodiments, the indicia  246  can be non-volumetric indicia that correspond to a characteristic of the patient. For example, in some embodiments, the indicia  246  can correspond to a weight, height, age, target body weight, and/or body mass index (BMI) of the patient. In other embodiments, the indicia  246  can correspond to a test result associated with the patient, including, for example, a range of blood sugar (e.g., for insulin dosage) or any other suitable test result. In this manner, a user can withdraw a dosage of medicament without the need for calculation or conversion to determine the volumetric amount. 
     The series of indicia  246  can be arranged along the outer surface  245  in any suitable manner or orientation. For example, in some embodiments, the series of indicia  246  is arranged coaxially along the longitudinal axis A L . In this manner, when the plunger  240  is reciprocated along the longitudinal axis A L  within the internal volume  218  of the syringe body  210 , each of the indicia  246  will be visible through the window  276  of the dose gauge  270  at a given plunger position. 
     In use, the plunger  240  can be removed from the syringe body  210  for cleaning. To prepare the syringe assembly  200  for use, the distal end portion  244  of the plunger  240  is placed within the volume  218  of the syringe body  210 . Specifically, the distal end portion  244  is first moved through the lateral opening  267 , as shown by the arrow DD in  FIG. 5 . The direction of motion of the distal end portion  244  is nonparallel to the longitudinal axis A L . After the distal end portion  244  is through the lateral opening  267 , it is then moved distally through the first opening  268  and into the volume  218 . The direction of motion of the distal end portion  244  through the first opening  268  is parallel to the longitudinal axis A L . Thus, the movement of the distal end portion  244  occurs in two discrete motions. The distal end portion  244  of the plunger  240  can then be reciprocated within the syringe body  210  along the longitudinal axis A L , as shown by the arrow EE, to convey a medicament into and/or out of the internal volume  218  of the syringe body  210 , in a similar manner as described above for the syringe assembly  100 . After delivery of the medicament, the syringe assembly  200  can be disassembled for cleaning by removing the distal end portion  244  of the plunger  240  from the internal volume  218 , a manner opposite to the steps described above. 
       FIGS. 8-21  illustrate a syringe assembly  300 , according to an embodiment.  FIGS. 8 and 9  are a front perspective view and a back perspective view, respectively, of the syringe assembly  300  with the plunger  340  in a second position (fully bottomed) within the syringe body  310 . The syringe assembly  300  includes a syringe body  310 , a dose gauge  370 , a cap  360 , and a plunger  340 . The syringe body  310 , which is shown a transparent view in the drawings to allow viewing of the contents therein, includes a side wall  315 , and defines an interior volume  318  within which a medicament can be contained. The syringe body  310  includes a proximal end portion  312 , a distal end portion  314 , and defines a longitudinal axis A L . When the plunger  340  is disposed within the syringe body  310 , the longitudinal axis A L  of the syringe body  310  is coaxial with the longitudinal axis A L  of the plunger  340 . Thus, the longitudinal axis A L  shown and described can be considered the longitudinal axis for the syringe body  310 , the plunger  340 , or both the syringe body  310  and the plunger  340 . 
     The proximal end portion  312  of the syringe body includes a flange  322  and defines an opening  323 . The volume  318  of the syringe body  310  can be accessed through the opening  323 . Moreover, the opening  323  is aligned with the constant cross-sectional shape of the volume  318 . Similarly stated, the opening  323  defines a central axis (i.e., and axis that is normal to a plane defined by the opening) that is coaxial with the longitudinal axis A L  of the syringe body  310 . Thus, the longitudinal axis A L  is normal to and is the central axis of the opening  323 . 
     The flange  322  can be manipulated by a user to actuate the syringe assembly  300 . The flange is also configured to engage and/or be coupled to the dose gauge  370  and/or the cap  360 . Specifically, the flange includes a proximal surface  325  and a distal surface  326  (see  FIG. 12 ). The proximal surface  325  is configured to engage a coupling surface  365  of the cap (see  FIG. 19 ) when the cap  360  is coupled to the flange  322 . In this manner, the flange  322  and/or the proximal surface  325  function as a locating index to which the cap  360  is mounted. The distal surface  326  is configured to engage a top surface  373  of the dose gauge  370  (see  FIG. 13 ) when the dose gauge  370  is coupled to the flange  322 . In this manner, the flange  322  and/or the distal surface  326  function as a locating index to which the dose gauge  370  is mounted. By indexing the dose gauge  370  to the flange  322  and/or the syringe body  310 , the dose gauge  370  can be maintained in a fixed location along the longitudinal axis A L  of the syringe body  310 , thereby producing an accurate and repeatable indication of the dose amount when the indicia  346  of the plunger  340  are aligned within the window  376 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 12 , he distal end portion  314  of the syringe body  310  has a delivery tip  332  and an internal tapered surface  334 . The tapered surface  334  is a frusto-conical shaped portion that corresponds to the shape of the distal end surface  349  of the elastomeric member  343 . Thus, when the plunger  340  is in the second (or fully distal) position (see  FIGS. 8 and 9 ), the distal end surface  349  is in contact with the tapered surface  334  of the syringe body  310 . This arrangement limits trapped pockets of medicament within the volume  318  and ensures that the full dose is delivered via the delivery tip  332 . The delivery tip  332  can be any suitable tip or member through which the medicament can be conveyed either into or out of the internal volume  318  of the syringe body  310 . In some embodiments, the delivery tip  332  can be a protrusion extending from the syringe body  310  that can be received within a medicament container (e.g., bottle, vial or the like) and that can also deliver the medicament orally to the patient. In other embodiments, the delivery tip  332  can a tapered fitting (such as a Luer fitting) that is adapted to couple the distal end portion  314  of the syringe body  310  to a needle (not shown). 
     In some embodiments, the syringe body  310  (and any of the syringe bodies described herein) can be constructed from a clear material (e.g., plastic or glass), and can include markings or graduated lines on the outer surface of the side wall  315 . In some embodiments, the syringe body  310  (and any of the syringe bodies described herein) can include an opaque label (not shown) that defines one or more transparent windows through which a user can view the medicament or any other contents (e.g., the plunger  340 ) within the internal volume  318 . In other embodiments, the syringe body  310  (and any of the syringe bodies described herein) can include a monolithically constructed opaque or semi-opaque portion. Such portions can include a light blocking color, or can be devoid of color, but can otherwise by hazy, blurred or textured to prevent medicament or other contents within the internal volume  318  from being clearly seen. 
     In some embodiments, the syringe body  310  (and any of the syringe bodies described herein) can be of any suitable size. For example, in some embodiments, the internal volume  318  (or the internal volume of any of the syringe bodies described herein) can be 1 mL, 3 mL, 5 mL, 10 mL, and 20 mL. In other embodiments, the internal volume  318  (or the internal volume of any of the syringe bodies described herein) can be greater than 20 mL. In some embodiments, the syringe body  310  (and any of the syringe bodies described herein) can be the syringe body from an off-the-shelf oral medication syringe produced by Covidien (now known as Medtronic Minimally Invasive Therapies), for example, the syringes known as the “Monojet Oral Medication Syringe,” or the “10 mL Slip DbDjj Tip Oral Medication Syringe.” In other embodiments, the syringe body  310  (and any of the syringe bodies described herein) can be the syringe body from an off-the-shelf oral medication syringe produced by Becton, Dickinson and Company, for example, the syringes identified as the “BD Enteral Syringe with BD UniVia™ Connector” or the “Oral Syringe with Tip Cap” (BD catalog numbers 305217, 305218, 305219, 305220, 305207, 305208, 305209, 305210. In other embodiments, the syringe body  310  (and any of the syringe bodies described herein) can be the syringe body from an off-the-shelf oral medication syringe produced by Ezy-Dose (Apothecary Products LLC), for example, the syringes identified the “Dosage Korc™.” In yet other embodiments, the syringe body  310  (and any of the syringe bodies described herein) can be the syringe body from an off-the-shelf oral medication syringe produced by Duda Energy, for example, the needled syringes identified the “15G×1½” Blunt Tip Fill Needle and Plastic Cover.” 
     The dose gauge  370  includes a proximal end portion  371  and a distal end portion  372 , and is coupled about at least a portion of the side wall  315  of the syringe body  310 . As shown, the dose gauge  370  defines a window  376  through which portions of the plunger  340  (i.e., the indicia  346 ) within the syringe body  310  can be seen (i.e., via a transparent portion of the side wall  315  of the syringe body  310 ). In this manner, as described in more detail below, the dose gauge  370  and the plunger  340  can provide a visual indication of the dosage of medicament drawn into the syringe body  310 . 
     The dose gauge  370  includes an opaque portion  375  surrounding the window  376 . In this manner, the opaque portion  375  can provide a frame that surrounds the window  376 . Thus, during use, the indicia  346  displayed within the window  376  are clearly accentuated to the user. Moreover, the opaque portion  375  surrounding the window  376  includes at least one alignment protrusion  377 . As shown in  FIG. 21 , the alignment protrusion  377  is configured to be aligned with the one indicium  346  from the series of indicia when the plunger  340  is in the first (dose ready) position. The outer surface of the dose gauge  370  can include instructions or indicia  378  associated with the medicament, dose, and/or treatment regimen. Such instructions or indicia can include, for example, the characteristic of the patient to be considered when setting the dosage (e.g., “child&#39;s weight”), the units of measure (e.g., pounds), alignment marks or arrows, identification of the regimen (e.g., “day 2”), and/or the drug name. 
     The window  376  can be a portion of the dose gauge that is devoid of material. In other embodiments, however, the window  376  can include a transparent material through which a user can view the indicia  346 . Moreover, the window  376  can be of any suitable size and/or shape. Thus, although shown as being rectangular, in other embodiments, the window  376  can be circular, oval, or any other polygon. Although the window  376  is shown as being sized such that only one indicium  346  from the series of indicia is visible through the window at a time, in other embodiments, the dose gauge  370  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can include a window through which multiple indicia can be viewed at a time. In yet other embodiments, the dose gauge  370  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can include more than one window. 
     The proximal end portion  371  of the dose gauge  370  includes a flange that has a top surface  373 . As described above, the top surface  373  is configured to engage the distal surface  326  of the syringe flange  322  to couple the dose gauge  370  to the flange  322 . In this manner, the dose gauge  370  is indexed to the flange  322  and/or the distal surface  326 . By indexing the dose gauge  370  to the flange  322  and/or the syringe body  310 , the dose gauge  370  can be maintained in a fixed location along the longitudinal axis A L  of the syringe body  310 , thereby producing an accurate and repeatable indication of the dose amount when the indicia  346  of the plunger  340  are aligned within the window  376 . 
     The dose gauge  370  can be coupled to the syringe body  310  in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the top surface  373  can be bonded to the flange  322  of the syringe body  310  (e.g., via an adhesive, a weld joint or the like). In other embodiments, the dose gauge  370  can be coupled to the cap  360  in a manner that surrounds the flange  322  of the syringe body  310  to couple the dose gauge  370  to the syringe body. In yet other embodiments, the dose gauge  370  is snapped into place over a portion of the syringe body  310  and/or the cap  360  (i.e., via an interference fit). 
     Referring to  FIG. 14 , the opaque portion  375  extends around approximately one half of the circumference of the syringe body  310  (about 270 degrees). By exposing certain portion (e.g., the “back side) of the syringe body  310 , the user can visually inspect the medicament in the syringe body  310  for air bubbles, the correct color of the medicament, and the like. In other embodiments, the dose gauge  370  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can extend around any suitable portion of the circumference of the syringe body  310 . For example, in some embodiments, the dose gauge  370  can extend around the full circumference of the syringe body  310 . In this manner, the window  376  can be disposed about one portion of the syringe body  310  and other portions (e.g., opaque portions) of the dose gauge  370  can be disposed about another portion of the syringe body. By covering certain portions of the syringe body  310 , the user can more easily identify the visual dose indication. In other embodiments, however, the dose gauge  370  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can extend around only a portion of the circumference of the syringe body  310 . For example, in some embodiments, the dose gauge  370  can extend around about three quarters of the circumference (about 270 degrees). In other embodiments, the dose gauge  370  can extend around about one half to three quarters of the circumference (from about 380 degrees to about 270 degrees). In other embodiments, the dose gauge  370  can extend around about one quarter to one half of the circumference (from about 90 degrees to about 180 degrees). In this manner, the window  376  can be disposed about one portion of the syringe body  310  and other portions of the syringe body  310  can be exposed. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 18-20 , the cap  360  includes a proximal end portion  361  and a distal end portion  362 . The distal end portion  362  includes a bottom surface  365  that defines a central opening  368  that is aligned with the opening  323  of the syringe body  310 . The distal end portion  362  also includes a lip that surrounds the bottom surface  365 . As described above, the bottom surface  365  of the cap  360  is configured to engage the proximal surface  325  of the flange  322  to couple the cap  360  to the syringe body  310 . Moreover, the lip can have a shape that corresponds to a shape of the flange  322 , and can thus surround the edges of the flange  322  when the cap  360  is coupled to the syringe body  310 . The cap  360  can be coupled to the syringe body  310  in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, a portion of the distal surface  365  can be adhesively coupled to the proximal surface  325  of the flange  322 . In other embodiments, however, the cap  360  can be monolithically constructed with the syringe body  310 . 
     The proximal end portion  361  includes a top (or proximal) surface  363  that defines an engagement slot  364 . The top surface  363  extends above the bottom surface  365  and the opening  368 . In this manner, the cap  360  provides a covering over at least a portion of the opening  368  and the opening  323  of the syringe body  310 . The engagement slot  364  is configured to engage and/or interface with a corresponding engagement protrusion  348  of the plunger  340  to limit rotation of the plunger  340  within the syringe body  310  about the longitudinal axis L A . Although shown as being an engagement slot  364 , in other embodiments, the cap  360  (and any of the caps described herein) can include an engagement protrusion configured to be disposed within a corresponding groove of the plunger, or any other suitable mechanism to limit and/or prevent rotation of the plunger within the syringe body  310  about the longitudinal axis L A . In yet other embodiments, cap  360  can include a splined surface that interfaces with a corresponding splined surface of the plunger  340  to limit, reduce and/or prevent rotation of the plunger  340  within the syringe body  310 . 
     The cap  360  defines a lateral opening (also referred to as a second opening)  367  between the distal surface  365  and the proximal surface  363 . As described in more detail herein, the lateral opening  367  provides a passageway through which the distal end portion  344  of the plunger  340  (including the elastomeric member  343 ) can be moved when the distal end portion  344  is disposed into or removed from the volume  318  of the syringe body. The lateral opening  367  defines a central axis (not shown) that is normal to a plane defined by the lateral opening  367 . The central axis is nonparallel to the central axis of the first opening  368  and/or the opening  323  of the syringe body  310 . Thus, in a similar manner as described above for the cap  260 , the distal end  344  of the plunger  340  is moved in two distinct directions (along the central axis of the opening and along the longitudinal axis A L ) when being moved into or out of the syringe body  310 . 
     Moreover, the lateral opening  367  is sized such that the distal end portion  344  of the plunger  340  can be removed from the volume of the syringe body  310  via the lateral opening  367 . In particular, the lateral opening  367  has a height H (see  FIG. 18 ) that is greater than a height H of the elastomeric member  343  (see  FIG. 15 ). The lateral opening  367  has a width W (see  FIG. 20 ) that is greater than a diameter D of the elastomeric member  343  (see  FIG. 15 ). 
     The plunger  340  has a proximal end portion  342  and a distal end portion  344 . The distal end portion  344  of the plunger  340  is configured to move within the interior volume  318  of the syringe body  310  to convey a medicament. As shown, the distal end portion  344  includes an elastomeric member  343  that defines a substantially fluid-tight seal with the side wall  315  of the syringe body  310 . Thus, the distal end portion  344  can reciprocate within the syringe body  310  along the longitudinal axis LA to convey the medicament into and out of the volume  318 . Moreover, as described in more detail below, the distal end portion  344  (including the elastomeric member  343 ) can be removed from the syringe body  310  via the lateral opening  367  for cleaning, storage, or the like. The proximal end portion  342  of the plunger  340  includes an activation handle  341  that can be grasped and/or manipulated by a user to move the plunger  340  within the syringe body  310 . 
     The plunger  340  includes an outer surface  345  having a series of indicia  346 . As shown in  FIG. 21 , at least one of the indicium from the series of indicia  346  is visible through the window  376  of the syringe body  310  when the plunger  340  is in the first (i.e., dose ready) position. In this manner, the indicia  346  can provide a visual indication of the dosage of medicament drawn into the syringe body  310 . More specifically, because the indicia  346  are in a fixed position on the plunger  340  and the window  376  of the dose gauge  370  is in a fixed position on the syringe body  310 , the position of the plunger  340  within the syringe body  310  at which one of the indicium  346  is visible via the window  376  corresponds to a volume (i.e., dosage volume) within the syringe body  310 . As shown, the indicia  346  are non-volumetric indicia that correspond to a characteristic (i.e., the weight) of the patient. In other embodiments, the indicia  346  can correspond to any other characteristic of the patient, including the height, age, target body weight, and/or body mass index (BMI) of the patient. In other embodiments, the indicia  346  can correspond to a test result associated with the patient, including, for example, a range of blood sugar (e.g., for insulin dosage) or any other suitable test result. In this manner, a user can withdraw a dosage of medicament without the need for calculation or conversion to determine the volumetric amount. The series of indicia  346  also includes an arrow or alignment mark that can be aligned with the alignment protrusion  377  of the dose gauge  370 . 
     The series of indicia  346  can be arranged along the outer surface  345  in any suitable manner or orientation. For example, in some embodiments, the series of indicia  346  is arranged coaxially along the longitudinal axis A L . In this manner, when the plunger  340  is reciprocated along the longitudinal axis A L  within the internal volume  318  of the syringe body  310 , each of the indicia  346  will be visible through the window  376  of the dose gauge  370  at a given plunger position. 
     As shown in  FIG. 17 , the plunger  340  includes an engagement protrusion (or rib)  348  that interfaces with the engagement slot  364  of the cap  360  to limit rotation of the plunger  340  about its longitudinal axis A L . The engagement protrusion  348  extends from the proximal end portion  342  to the distal end portion  344  (and specifically to the point at which the elastomeric member  343  is coupled to the plunger  340 ). Thus, in use, the engagement protrusion  348  remains within the engagement slot  364  throughout the full range of motion of the plunger  340  during a delivery event. In particular, the engagement protrusion  348  remains within the engagement slot  364  when the plunger  340  moves between the first position (or dose ready position, see  FIG. 21 ) and the second position (or dose delivered position, see  FIGS. 8 and 9 ). Similarly stated, the engagement protrusion  348  is continuously within the engagement slot  364  when the plunger  340  moves between the first position and the second position. 
     Although shown as being a protrusion (i.e., rib or shoulder), in other embodiments, the plunger  340  can include any suitable engagement mechanism to engage with a corresponding portion of the cap  360  to limit rotation of the plunger  340  within the syringe body  310  about the longitudinal axis A L . For example, in some embodiments, the plunger  340  can include a recessed portion (not shown) configured to receive a protrusion (not shown) of the cap  360 . In other embodiments, the plunger  340  can include a splined surface that interfaces with a corresponding splined surface of the cap  360  to limit, reduce and/or prevent rotation of the plunger  340  within the syringe body  310 . 
     In use, the distal end portion  344  of the plunger  340  can be reciprocated within the syringe body  310  along the longitudinal axis A L  to convey a medicament into and/or out of the internal volume  318  of the syringe body  310 . In the initial configuration (see  FIGS. 8 and 9 ), the plunger  340  is positioned at its distal-most position within the syringe body  310  (i.e., in the second position). In the second position, the distal surface  349  of the elastomeric member  343  is in contact with the corresponding internal tapered surface  334  of the syringe body  310 . To prepare a dose of the medicament for delivery, the delivery tip  332  is placed in fluid communication with a source of medicament (e.g., a medicament container, not shown), and the plunger  340  is moved proximally, as shown by the arrow FF in  FIG. 21 . The movement of the distal end portion  344  of the plunger  340  within the syringe body  310  increases the internal volume  318 , which, in turn, produces a vacuum that draws the medicament into the syringe body  310 . As shown in  FIG. 21 , the plunger  340  is moved proximally until an indicium  346  (the indicium corresponding to a weight of 36-47 lb.) is visible through the window  376  of the dose gauge  370 . Further, the alignment protrusion  377  of the dose gauge  370  is aligned with the alignment mark or arrow of the indicium. In this manner, the syringe assembly  300  is placed in its second (or “dosage set”) configuration (and the plunger  340  is in a first position within the syringe body  310 ). 
     As described above, during the movement of the plunger  340  from the second position to the first position, the engagement protrusion  348  of the plunger  340  interfaces with the engagement slot  364  of the cap  360  to limit rotation of the plunger  340  about the longitudinal axis A L  of the plunger. In this manner, the indicia  346  remain radially aligned with the window  376  of the dose gauge  370 , thus ensuring that the indicia  346  will be visible through the window  376  of the dose gauge  370  when the plunger  340  is in the corresponding longitudinal position within the syringe body  310 . 
     To deliver the dosage withdrawn, the user then places the delivery tip  332  in the desired location (e.g., in the patient&#39;s mouth) and moves the plunger  340  distally (i.e., opposite the direction DD shown in  FIG. 21 ). The movement of the distal end portion  344  of the plunger  340  within the syringe body  310  decreases the internal volume  318 , which, in turn, produces a pressure that conveys the medicament out of the syringe body  310 . The plunger  340  is moved distally until the surface  349  of the elastomeric member  343  is in contact with the internal tapered surface  334  of the syringe body  310 . This movement places the syringe assembly  300  in its third (or dose delivered) configuration. During the movement of the plunger  340  from the first position back to the second position, the engagement protrusion  348  of the plunger  340  interfaces with the engagement slot  364  of the cap  360  to limit rotation of the plunger  340  about the longitudinal axis A L  of the plunger. 
     In some embodiments, the syringe assembly  300  can be disassembled for cleaning or the like. Specifically, the plunger  340  can be removed from the syringe body  310  by first moving the plunger  340  proximally along the longitudinal axis A L  until the distal end portion  344  and/or the elastomeric member  343  passes through the opening  343  and the opening  368 . At this point, the engagement protrusion  348  remains within the engagement slot  364 , and the elastomeric member  343  is within the cap  360 , between the distal surface  365  and the proximal surface  363 . Further proximal movement along the longitudinal axis A L  is limited by contact between portions of the plunger  340  and the proximal surface  363  of the cap  360 . Next, the distal end portion  344  of the plunger (including the elastomeric member  343 ) is moved through the lateral opening  367 . This movement occurs in a direction nonparallel to the along the longitudinal axis A L . 
     After cleaning, to prepare the syringe assembly  300  for use, the distal end portion  344  of the plunger  340  is placed within the volume  318  of the syringe body  310 . Specifically, the distal end portion  344  is first moved through the lateral opening  367 . The direction of motion of the distal end portion  344  is nonparallel to the longitudinal axis A L . After the distal end portion  344  is through the lateral opening  367 , it is then moved distally through the opening  368  and the opening  323 , and into the volume  318 . The direction of motion of the distal end portion  344  through the opening  368  is parallel to the longitudinal axis A L . Thus, the movement of the distal end portion  344  occurs in two discrete motions. The distal end portion  344  of the plunger  340  can then be reciprocated within the syringe body  310  along the longitudinal axis A L , as described above, to convey a medicament into and/or out of the internal volume  318  of the syringe body  310 . 
     Although the dose gauge  370  is shown as extending only a portion of the length of the syringe body  310 , in other embodiments, the dose gauge  370  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can have any suitable length. For example, in some embodiments, a dose gauge can extend substantially the full length of the syringe body. For example,  FIGS. 22-25  show various views of a syringe assembly  400 , according to an embodiment.  FIGS. 22 and 23  are a front perspective view and a back perspective view, respectively, of the syringe assembly  400  with the plunger  340  in a first position (i.e., dose readied) within the syringe body  310 . The syringe assembly  400  includes a syringe body  310 , a dose gauge  470 , a cap  360 , and a plunger  340 . The syringe body  310  is the same as the syringe body  310  described above with reference to the syringe assembly  300 , and is therefore not described in detail below. The cap  360  is the same as the cap  360  described above with reference to the syringe assembly  300 , and is therefore not described in detail below. The plunger  340  is the same as the plunger  340  described above with reference to the syringe assembly  300 , and is therefore not described in detail below. Thus, the syringe assembly  400  differs from the syringe assembly  300  in that the dose gauge  470  of the syringe assembly  400  is longer than, and covers more of the syringe body than the dose gauge  370 . 
     The dose gauge  470  includes a proximal end portion  471  and a distal end portion  472 , and is coupled about at least a portion of the side wall  415  of the syringe body  410 . As shown, the dose gauge  470  defines a window  476  through which portions of the plunger  340  (i.e., the indicia  346 ) within the syringe body  310  can be seen (i.e., via a transparent portion of the side wall  315  of the syringe body  310 ). In this manner, the dose gauge  470  and the plunger  340  can provide a visual indication of the dosage of medicament drawn into the syringe body  310 . 
     The dose gauge  470  includes an opaque portion  475  surrounding the window  476 . In this manner, the opaque portion  475  can provide a frame that surrounds the window  476 . Thus, during use, the indicia  346  displayed within the window  476  are clearly accentuated to the user. Moreover, the opaque portion  475  surrounding the window  476  includes at least one alignment protrusion  477 . As shown in  FIG. 22 , the alignment protrusion  477  is configured to be aligned with the one indicium  346  from the series of indicia when the plunger  340  is in the first (dose ready) position. The outer surface of the dose gauge  470  can include instructions or indicia  478  associated with the medicament, dose, and/or treatment regimen. Such instructions or indicia can include, for example, the characteristic of the patient to be considered when setting the dosage (e.g., “child&#39;s weight”), the units of measure (e.g., pounds), alignment marks or arrows, identification of the regimen (e.g., “day 2”), and/or the drug name (e.g., “acetaminophen”). 
     The window  476  can be a portion of the dose gauge that is devoid of material. In other embodiments, however, the window  476  can include a transparent material through which a user can view the indicia  346 . Moreover, the window  476  can be of any suitable size and/or shape. Thus, although shown as being rectangular, in other embodiments, the window  476  can be circular, oval, or any other polygon. Although the window  476  is shown as being sized such that only one indicium  446  from the series of indicia is visible through the window at a time, in other embodiments, the dose gauge  470  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can include a window through which multiple indicia can be viewed at a time. In yet other embodiments, the dose gauge  470  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can include more than one window. 
     The proximal end portion  471  of the dose gauge  470  includes a flange that has a top surface  473 . The top surface  473  is configured to engage the distal surface  326  of the syringe flange  322  to couple the dose gauge  470  to the flange  322 . In this manner, the dose gauge  470  is indexed to the flange  322  and/or the distal surface  326 . By indexing the dose gauge  470  to the flange  322  and/or the syringe body  310 , the dose gauge  470  can be maintained in a fixed location along the longitudinal axis A L  of the syringe body  310 , thereby producing an accurate and repeatable indication of the dose amount when the indicia  346  of the plunger  340  are aligned within the window  476 . 
     The dose gauge  470  can be coupled to the syringe body  410  in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the top surface  473  can be bonded to the flange  322  of the syringe body  310  (e.g., via an adhesive, a weld joint or the like). In other embodiments, the dose gauge  470  can be coupled to the cap  360  in a manner that surrounds the flange  322  of the syringe body  310  to couple the dose gauge  470  to the syringe body. In yet other embodiments, the dose gauge  470  is snapped into place over a portion of the syringe body  310  and/or the cap  360  (i.e., via an interference fit). 
     Referring to  FIG. 23 , the opaque portion  475  extends around approximately one half of the circumference of the syringe body  310  (about 270 degrees). By exposing certain portion (e.g., the “back side) of the syringe body  310 , the user can visually inspect the medicament in the syringe body  310  for air bubbles, the correct color of the medicament, and the like. In other embodiments, the dose gauge  470  (or any of the dose gauges described herein) can extend around any suitable portion of the circumference of the syringe body  410 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 23 , the dose gauge  470  has a length that is substantially the same as the length of the syringe body  310  (e.g., from the flange  322  to the beginning of the tapered surface  334 ). In this manner, the dose gauge  470  covers the entire length of the syringe body  310 , thereby blocking the view of the plunger indicia  346  unless the indicia is located within the window  476 . In this manner, the extended length dose gauge  470  can reduce the likelihood that the user will inadvertently use indicia  346  that are not within the window to set the dosage. Moreover, the extended length also allows for more room on which to include the indicia  478 . 
       FIG. 26  is a flow chart illustrating a method  10  of producing (or assembling) a syringe assembly, according to an embodiment. The method  10  can be performed using any of the syringe assemblies or components shown and described herein. The method includes coupling a dose gauge about a side wall of a syringe body, at  12 . The syringe body, which can be any of the syringe bodies disclosed herein (including the syringe body  310 ), defines a volume (e.g., volume  318 ) configured to contain a medicament. A distal end portion of the syringe body includes a delivery tip (e.g., the delivery tip  332 ). The dose gauge, which can be any of the dose gauges disclosed herein (including the dose gauge  370  or the dose gauge  470 ), defines a window. 
     The dose gauge can be coupled to the syringe body in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, the dose gauge can be permanently (or non-removably) coupled to the syringe body via an adhesive, a weld joint or the like. In other embodiments, the dose gauge can be coupled to and/or about the syringe assembly via an interference fit (e.g., by snapping the dose gauge about the outer surface of the syringe body). In yet other embodiments, a proximal end portion of the syringe body can include a flange (e.g., the flange  322 ), and the dose gauge can be coupled to a distal surface of the flange (e.g., via an epoxy). 
     A cap is coupled to a proximal end portion of the syringe body, at  14 . The cap, which can be any of the caps disclosed herein (including the cap  360 ), includes a distal surface and a proximal surface, and defines a lateral opening between the proximal surface and the distal surface (e.g., the lateral opening  376  and/or the lateral opening  476 ). The cap can be coupled to the syringe body in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, the cap can be permanently (or non-removably) coupled to the syringe body via an adhesive, a weld joint or the like. In other embodiments, the cap can be coupled to and/or about the syringe assembly via an interference fit (e.g., by snapping the dose gauge about the outer surface of the syringe body and/or the dose gauge). In yet other embodiments, a proximal end portion of the syringe body can include a flange (e.g., the flange  322 ), and the cap can be coupled to a proximal surface of the flange (e.g., via an epoxy). Moreover, in some embodiments, the cap and the dose gauge can be monolithically constructed and can be coupled to the syringe body together in a single operation. 
     The method further includes disposing a distal end portion of a plunger into the volume via the lateral opening, at  16 . The plunger, which can be any of the plungers described herein (e.g., the plunger  340 ) includes an outer surface having a series of indicia (e.g., the indicia  346 ). At least one indicium is visible through the window of the dose gauge when the plunger is moved in a distal direction within the volume of the syringe body. The distal end portion of the plunger can be disposed within the volume by any suitable series of steps. For example, in some embodiments, the distal end portion of the plunger can be first moved in a lateral direction through the lateral opening of the cap, and then moved at a second time through a top opening (e.g., the opening  323 ) defined by the syringe body. The lateral direction being nonparallel to the distal direction. In some embodiments, an engagement portion of the plunger is first aligned with a corresponding engagement portion of the cap to allow the plunger to be disposed within the volume. 
     In some embodiments, the method optionally includes moving the distal end portion of the plunger within the volume in a distal direction until a distal end surface of the plunger is in contact with a tapered surface of the syringe body (e.g., an internal tapered surface  334 ), at  18 . In this manner, the plunger can be placed in the second position. 
     In some embodiments, the method optionally includes placing the syringe body and the plunger within a package, at  20 . The package can be any suitable package, such as the package  501  shown in  FIG. 27 , and can include instructions for use and other information. 
     The syringe body  110  and any of the syringe bodies shown and described herein can be constructed of any suitable material, such as hard plastic or glass. In some embodiments, the syringe body  110 , or any of the syringe bodies described herein, can be constructed from moldable plastic materials such as, for example, a polymeric plastic including, but not limited to, polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a phenol formaldehyde resin (e.g., Bakelite) and/or the like. In some embodiments, the syringe body  310 , or any of the syringe bodies shown and described herein, is monolithically constructed. For example, the syringe body  310  and any of the syringe bodies shown and described herein can be molded to form a single component having a constant cross-sectional diameter. In other embodiments, however, the syringe body  310 , and any of the syringe bodies shown and described herein, can be constructed from multiple separate components that are later joined together. 
     The plunger  340  and any of the plungers shown and described herein can be constructed of any suitable material, such as hard plastic. In some embodiments, the plunger  340 , or any of the plungers described herein, can be constructed from moldable plastic materials such as, for example, a polymeric plastic including, but not limited to, polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a phenol formaldehyde resin (e.g., Bakelite) and/or the like. In some embodiments, the plunger  340 , or any of the plungers shown and described herein, is monolithically constructed. In other embodiments, however, the plunger  340 , and any of the plungers shown and described herein, can be constructed from multiple separate components that are later joined together. For example, in some embodiments, the plunger  340  can include a hard plastic member and an elastomeric member that seals the medicament within the internal volume of the accompanying syringe body. In such embodiments, the elastomeric member can be of any design or formulation suitable for contact with the medicament. 
     In some embodiments, a syringe body can be an off-the-shelf syringe with a cap and a dose gauge glued to the existing syringe body. As described above, the cap fits over the flange of the syringe body and hangs over the edge of the flange of the syringe body. The dose gauge sits underneath the overhang of the flange of the syringe body and adheres to the underside of the flange of the syringe body. An epoxy can attach all three components. 
     In some embodiments, a syringe assembly can be used in conjunction with different medicaments. Similarly stated, in some embodiments, a syringe assembly can include multiple sets of indicia, each of which corresponds to a different “scale” or dosage setting for a different drug. In some embodiments, the delivery tip can be a protrusion extending from the syringe body that can be received within a medicament container (e.g., bottle, vial or the like) and that can also deliver the medicament orally to the patient. In other embodiments, the delivery tip can a tapered fitting (such as a Luer fitting) that is adapted to couple the distal end portion of the syringe body to a needle (not shown). 
     In some embodiments, any of the syringe assemblies described herein can be included within a kit that also contains a medicament container, a delivery member (e.g. a needle, an oral delivery tip, or the like) associated packaging and/or an instruction set. 
     In some embodiments, a kit can include features to reduce the likelihood that the syringe assembly therein will be used with a drug for which the assembly is not intended. For example, in some embodiments, a kit can include a coupling member that retains the syringe assembly to the medicament container. 
     While various embodiments of the invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Where methods described above indicate certain events occurring in certain order, the ordering of certain events may be modified. Additionally, certain of the events may be performed concurrently in a parallel process when possible, as well as performed sequentially as described above. 
     For example, any of the syringe assemblies described herein can include any suitable engagement mechanism (or mating engagement portions) to limit rotation of the plunger within the syringe body. In some embodiments, such engagement portions can include, for example, a protrusion configured to be disposed within a corresponding groove of the plunger. In other embodiments, such engagement portions can include a recessed portion configured to receive a protrusion of the plunger. In yet other embodiments, such engagement portions can include a splined surface that interfaces with a corresponding splined surface of the plunger to limit, reduce and/or prevent rotation of the plunger within the syringe body. 
     Any of the windows of the dose gauge shown and described herein can be of any suitable size and/or shape to allow visual access to the indicia. For example, as shown, the window can be defined by a side wall that includes arrows, pointers or other features to enhance the longitudinal alignment between the plunger and the window. 
     Although the dose gauge  370  is shown and described as being a separate member, in other embodiments, a dose gauge can be an opaque label coupled to the side wall of the syringe body. In such embodiments, the opaque label can define the window such that the opaque label frames the window. 
     Although the syringe body  110  and the cap  160  are shown as having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape, in other embodiments, any of the syringe bodies, plungers or other components described herein can have any suitable shape. For example, in some embodiments, a plunger and/or a syringe body can have a non-circular cross-sectional area to limit rotation of the plunger within the syringe body (i.e., about its longitudinal axis). 
     Any of the plungers shown and described herein can include an elastomeric member, such as the elastomeric member  343  shown and described above. Any such elastomeric member can be constructed from any suitable material, and can be formulated to be compatible with the medicament housed within the syringe body. Similarly stated, the elastomeric member can be formulated to minimize any reduction in the efficacy of the medicament that may result from contact (either direct or indirect) between the elastomeric member and the medicament. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the elastomeric member can be coated to improve the lubricity of the elastomeric member. 
     In some embodiments, the side wall of the syringe body  310  (or any of the syringe bodies shown herein) or the cap  360  (or any of the caps shown herein) can include a syringe detent that engages a portion of the plunger within the syringe body when each of the series of indicia (e.g., the indicia  346 ) is visible through the dose gauge. In this manner, the user can receive a tactile sensation (e.g., a slight snap, click or vibration) when each indicium is aligned with and/or visible via the window. In this manner, the syringe assembly can allow for a series of discrete intervals of plunger movement within the syringe body. 
     Although the plunger  140  is shown as having only two indicia  146 , in other embodiments, the plunger  140  (or any of the plungers described herein) can include any number of indicia. For example, in some embodiments, the plunger  140  (or any of the plungers described herein) can include a series of indicia corresponding to the following weight ranges of the patient: 12 to 17 pounds, 18 to 23 pounds, 24 to 35 pounds, 36 to 47 pounds, 48 to 60 pounds, 61 to 75 pounds, 76 to 90 pounds, and greater than 90 pounds. In other embodiments, the plunger  140  (or any of the plungers described herein) can include a series of indicia corresponding to the following age ranges of the patient: 6 to 18 months, 18 months to 3 years, 3 to 5 years, 6 to 11 years, and 12 years and higher. In yet other embodiments, the plunger  140  (or any of the plungers described herein) can include a series of indicia that do not correspond to ranges (e.g., they may correspond to a specific weight, age, height, lab test result or the like). Such indicia may include for example, a metric/English marking (10 lb/4.5 kg). 
     Although the plunger  340  is shown as having a series of indicia  346  arranged longitudinally along the plunger  340 , in other embodiments, the plunger  340  (and any of the plungers described herein) can also include an indicium (e.g., an instruction indicia, a warning or the like) on the proximal end portion that is exposed from the syringe body when the syringe assembly is in its first configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the plunger  340  (and any of the plungers described herein can include an indicium facing outwardly from an activation surface or “handle.” 
     Although the syringe assemblies are shown and described herein as being suitable for multiple uses (e.g., for a therapeutic regimen over several days and/or doses), in other embodiments, any of the syringe assemblies described herein can be configured for a single-use application. In this manner, the likelihood of using the syringe assembly with the wrong medicament is reduced. For example, in some embodiments, a syringe assembly can include a locking tab (e.g., on a flange of the syringe body) that engages and retains the plunger in the distal-most position after a single dose has been delivered. In other embodiments, the syringe assembly can include a frangible portion that breaks and/or permanently deforms such that the plunger cannot be repeatedly reciprocated within the syringe body. 
     In some embodiments, a syringe body includes a lock member configured to limit movement of the distal end portion of the plunger in a proximal direction within the syringe body after a dose of the medicament has been delivered from the volume of the syringe body. 
     In some embodiments, a syringe body includes a protrusion configured to engage a portion of the plunger to limit movement of the distal end portion of the plunger in a proximal direction within the syringe body when the distal end portion of the plunger is in a distal-most position within the syringe body. 
     Any of the devices and/or medicament containers shown and described herein can be constructed from any suitable material. Such materials include glass, plastic (including thermoplastics such as cyclic olefin copolymers), or any other material used in the manufacture of syringes containing medications. 
     In some embodiments, a syringe body and a cap can be monolithically constructed so that the two components are formed in one process (e.g., injection molding). A dose gauge can be painted on the injection molded component to make it opaque. In another embodiment, a dose gauge can be a decal, which is then placed on the injection molded component. In yet another embodiment, a dose gauge can be a plastic add-on component, which can be glued to the injection molded component. 
     In some embodiments, a syringe body and a dose gauge can be monolithically constructed so that the two components are formed in one process. A cap can be a plastic add-on component, which can be glued to the syringe body / dose gauge. 
     In some embodiments, a dose gauge is designed for one specific medicine and can be attached to a general over the counter syringe. For example, in some embodiments, the dose gauge is designed for ibuprofen or acetaminophen. 
     In some embodiments, a dose gauge and a cap are monolithically constructed and are attached on the syringe body as one component. 
     In some embodiments, a cap is removable from the syringe body and is of various shapes such as a removable star, Spiderman or other superheroes, princess, animal shapes, cartoon characters, etc. The ability to customize the shape of the cap provides a more palatable manner to offer medicine to children. 
     Any of the devices and/or medicament containers shown and described herein can include and/or be used with any suitable medicament or therapeutic agent. In some embodiments, the medicament contained within any of the medicament containers and/or syringe assemblies shown herein can include acetaminophen, ibuprofen, diphenhydramine (Benadryl), cough and cold medicines, vitamins, Prescriptions: azithromycin, albuterol, allopurinol, cefdinir, chloroquine, choleystyramine, doxycycline, enoxaparin, erythromycin, hydroxychloroquine, isoniazid, levofloxacin, magnesium sulfate, methadone, omeprazole, Tamiflu, roxicet, pyridium, Compazinem Phenergan, kayexelate, prednisone, prednisolone, and/or dexamethasone. 
     The syringe assemblies disclosed herein can contain any suitable amount of any medicament. For example, in some embodiments, a syringe assembly as shown herein can be sized and/or can define a volume sufficient to contain any suitable dosage of medicament. 
     Although various embodiments have been described as having particular features and/or combinations of components, other embodiments are possible having a combination of any features and/or components from any of embodiments where appropriate. For example, any of the syringe assemblies described herein can include a syringe detent configured to engage one or more plunger detents to resist movement of the plunger within the syringe body when each of a series of indicia is visible through a window of the dose gauge. In this manner, the user can receive a tactile sensation (e.g., a slight snap, click or vibration) when each of the indicia are aligned with and/or visible via the window. In this manner, the syringe assembly can allow for a series of discrete intervals of plunger movement within the syringe body. 
     Any of the kits described herein can be used with and/or include any of the syringe assemblies shown and described herein.