An automatic pump relay system includes controllers coupled to drivers for sequentially dischargingfluid from a plurality of medication containers into a coupler having a refluxbarrier from which fluid is administered to a patient. The internal fluid pressureof the coupler is determined by a pressure sensing device or devices that providesignals to the controllers that, based at least on the sensor signals, cause thedrivers to operate in reverse and forward directions so as to rapidly decreaseand raise the fluid-pressure within the coupler during a relay from an empty syringeto a filled syringe, thereby avoiding bolus formation and an interruption ininfusion therapy. Independently operable syringe pumps are contemplated tobe connected in relay fashion to form a modular system.
