(2018-04-16) A New Sort Of Health App Can Do The Job Of Drugs

A new sort of health app can do the job of drugs (CoachBot)

growing number of apps that America’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved to treat everything from diabetes to substance abuse.

Unlike other sorts of digital health apps, digiceuticals have been tested for efficacy, approved by regulatory agencies such as the FDA and are prescribed by a doctor

Most apps are developed by startups, many of which are based in and around Boston.

One such, Pear Therapeutics, has a pipeline of treatments at various stages of development, much like a conventional pharmaceutical firm. These apps are aimed at treating a range of conditions: opioid addiction, schizophrenia, anxiety, insomnia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and chronic pain.

carefully trains patients to recognise daily triggers and cravings and to monitor and track these with their doctor.

Some digiceuticals will work better alongside conventional drugs, rather than on their own—opening up possibilities for alliances between tech and pharma firms. Voluntis, a startup, develops companion software for specific medications or medical devices. These programs can monitor side-effects, help manage symptoms and connect patients with doctors and nurses.

One reason for the reluctance is a lack of rules for prescribing and paying for these apps—a problem that a new lobbying group, the Digital Therapeutics Alliance, wants to tackle.