Rx tech – Digital Pharma

Welcome to the weekly Rx tech Newsletter — your source for the latest insights, product trends, and innovations driving Digital Transformation in the Pharmaceutical Industry.

Explore groundbreaking startups, articles, expert interviews, and in-depth analyses that are reimagining the future of pharma.

The Rx Tech Newsletter is designed to equip you with the knowledge you need to stay ahead in the Digital Transformation of the Pharmaceutical Industry.

1. What Pharma has learned from AI

As AI tools become an integral part of the pharmaceutical industry, the potential impact is vast, with predictions suggesting AI could generate up to $110 billion in value annually through improved efficiency and accelerated R&D. Industry leaders like PwC foresee that by 2030, companies fully adopting AI could double their operating profits. Insights from industry experts reveal that AI is offering deeper understanding and predictive capabilities in areas like clinical trial outcomes, patient treatment responses, and gene expression. However, scaling these AI solutions requires robust digital infrastructure, and while significant progress has been made, challenges remain, particularly in areas like remote patient monitoring and integrating AI across organizations. As AI continues to evolve, it is expected to transform drug discovery and development, enhance the capabilities of scientists, and uncover novel insights in biology and chemistry.

2. The Evolution of E-Prescribing: A Decade of Progress and Future Directions

E-prescribing has revolutionized the healthcare industry, evolving from basic digital systems to a widespread tool that enhances efficiency and patient safety. Initiated by legislative support in the early 2000s, e-prescribing saw significant adoption, particularly after the introduction of electronic prescribing for controlled substances (EPCS) in 2010. Today, with 92% of prescribers using e-prescribing systems, this technology has become essential in reducing medication errors and combating issues like prescription fraud. Looking ahead, innovations are focused on improving prescription information, enhancing data flow between providers and pharmacies, and strengthening patient data security. These advancements aim to further optimize e-prescribing's role in modern healthcare.

3. Minutes to Answers: Compliant Chat Builds More Meaningful HCP Relationships

As therapies grow more complex, the need for timely and accurate communication between biopharma field reps and doctors has intensified. In 2023, with a significant number of new medicines approved by the EMA, the demand for fast access to specific information is crucial. Traditional methods of communication, such as scheduled visits, are insufficient for the real-time needs of healthcare professionals (HCPs). Compliant chat platforms are emerging as vital tools, allowing doctors to initiate quick, secure interactions with field teams, ensuring they get the information they need when they need it. These platforms not only enhance the efficiency of communication but also ensure adherence to strict regulatory requirements, leading to improved patient care and stronger relationships between HCPs and biopharma companies.

If you're interested in solutions for HCP engagement and communication, visit Digital Transformation for Pharma.

4. AI Drug Discovery Space Consolidates with $688M Recursion and Exscientia Merger

Recursion Pharmaceuticals and Exscientia, two leading AI-driven drug discovery companies, are merging in early 2025 to create one of the largest AI-based pipelines in the industry. The merger aims to combine Recursion’s expertise in biology and translational capabilities with Exscientia’s precision chemistry tools. Despite recent declines in stock valuations, the merger is expected to generate significant revenue, with over $20 billion in potential milestones from strategic partnerships. The deal positions the combined company to lead in the rapidly growing AI drug discovery market, which is projected to reach $4.9 billion by 2028.

5. Abbott and Medtronic Partner to Integrate CGM System with Insulin Devices

Abbott has partnered with Medtronic to integrate its FreeStyle Libre continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology with Medtronic’s automated insulin delivery (AID) and smart insulin pen systems. This collaboration aims to enhance diabetes management by allowing Medtronic’s AID algorithms to automatically adjust insulin levels based on data from Abbott’s CGM sensors. The partnership highlights Abbott's ongoing efforts to expand options for diabetes care, providing patients with more tools to manage their insulin. Medtronic also announced the FDA approval of its Simplera CGM, a new, smaller, and easier-to-use device designed for integration with its insulin delivery systems.

6. Invenio Completes Enrollment in AI-based Lung Cancer Imaging Trial

Invenio Imaging, a California-based diagnostic imaging firm, has completed enrolment for a pivotal trial of its AI-driven software designed to detect lung cancer, aiming to become the first AI lung cancer imaging software cleared by the FDA. The trial, conducted in collaboration with Johnson & Johnson, will test Invenio’s NIO Laser Imaging System across multiple centers in Texas and North Carolina. The NIO system is designed to enhance lung biopsy imaging by providing rapid, on-site tissue evaluation where traditional methods like ROSE are unavailable. The AI-powered system promises to improve diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, potentially leading to better patient outcomes and personalized treatments.

7. Huxley Medical’s Sleep Apnoea Diagnostic Patch Receives FDA Clearance

Huxley Medical has received FDA 510(k) clearance for its SANSA sleep apnea diagnostic patch, marking a significant milestone as the first FDA-cleared chest-worn device of its kind. Designed for at-home use, the SANSA patch simplifies the diagnosis of sleep apnea by utilizing advanced sensors to measure eight physiological channels, including heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, and respiratory effort, without requiring additional attachments or wires. Clinical trials involving 533 patients across multiple U.S. sites demonstrated the device’s high accuracy and patient compliance, underscoring its potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve patient outcomes. With this clearance, Huxley Medical is now set to market the SANSA device.

8. Lunit’s AI-based TB Detection Software Trumps 11 other Products

Lunit's AI-powered chest X-ray analysis software, INSIGHT CXR, has shown superior performance in detecting tuberculosis (TB), according to a study published in The Lancet Digital Health. The study, conducted by researchers from Heidelberg University Hospital and the Stop TB Partnership, evaluated 12 AI-based TB detection products using data from South Africa. INSIGHT CXR achieved the highest accuracy, with sensitivity levels meeting WHO targets. This success highlights Lunit's impact on improving TB diagnosis, especially in resource-limited settings. The South Korea-based company continues to expand its AI solutions, recently securing $150 million in funding and acquiring Volpara Health Technologies to enhance its capabilities in cancer diagnostics.

9. Developers of Vapes for Migraine, Asthma Will Need to Win over Sceptics

Several North American companies, including Qnovia, MIIST Therapeutics, and Greentank, are exploring the potential of vape-like devices for delivering inhaled medications to treat conditions such as migraines and asthma. These companies believe that inhalation can offer rapid relief with fewer side effects compared to traditional pills. However, they face significant challenges in gaining acceptance from health authorities and overcoming the stigma associated with vape-like products. While Qnovia and MIIST plan to initially launch their devices as nicotine replacement therapies, Greentank is focusing on integrating its technology into cannabis and nicotine vapes. Despite the potential benefits, concerns remain about the safety and appropriateness of using vape-like devices for medical purposes, particularly given the growing health concerns around vaping. The companies are now working to secure regulatory approvals and partnerships to bring their innovations to market.

Thank you for reading this week's Rx Tech Newsletter. Stay tuned for more insights, trends, and innovations in the digital transformation of the pharmaceutical industry. Don't forget to share your thoughts and feedback.