What are Digiceuticals?

Digital therapeutic products, commonly referred to as Digiceuticals, represent a new era in healthcare. They are clinically-validated solutions used either as stand alone interventions or in association with other treatments to improve health outcomes, and in this article I will highlight how digiceuticals will be the driver of significant transformation in healthcare.

"Digiceuticals represent a new era in healthcare"

Digiceuticals represent a growing number of apps, approved by regulatory agencies, to treat a range of conditions from diabetes to substance abuse. 

Digiceuticals work by gathering data (by using sensors or by asking patients for information) and providing real-time guidance. The products undergo rigorous clinical testing through randomized clinical trials and real-world studies. Unlike other digital health apps they have been tested for safety and efficacy and are prescribed by doctors.

"Digiceuticals undergo rigorous clinical testing through randomized clinical trials and real-world studies"

Digital apps provide valuable information around compliance and efficacy – they can measure whether patients are adhering to their treatment and can also collect outcomes data, and as such their usage will result in improved patient outcomes.

It is estimated that there are at least 150 companies worldwide developing digiceuticals. Examples include: apps for diabetes management that work with connected monitors and use the information to manage symptoms; smoking cessation apps that combine a breath sensor with coaching on how to quit; while other addiction apps are based on cognitive behavioural therapy programs.

"150 companies worldwide are developing digiceuticals"

Pear Therapeutics have apps in development aimed at treating a range of conditions such as: depression, chronic pain, schizophrenia, anxiety, insomnia and post-traumatic stress disorder. It is anticipated that one product for alcohol and cocaine addiction will be launched in early 2018, in the USA. The app trains patients to recognise daily triggers and cravings and monitors and tracks these with the doctor. It is claimed that the app is more effective than conventional treatments.

"It is claimed that the app is more effective than conventional treatments"

Another company, Akili Interactive, has recently completed a clinical trial in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) showing that video games can improve outcomes. Their proprietary technology platform is designed to directly activate neurological networks and functions to lead to symptom improvements. Further, real-time monitoring of patient progress enables the healthcare professional to track patient compliance and progress, with modifications made when required.

Propeller, the leading digital platform for respiratory health management, improves the lives of patients with asthma and COPD using connected inhalers, digital interfaces, and personalized insights. Patients receive personal guidance and expert direction which leads to improved outcomes. They claim their technology results in up to 75% fewer asthma attacks, up to 50% more doses taken on schedule and up to 50% more symptom free days.

"Improves the lives of patients with asthma and COPD using connected inhalers, digital interfaces, and personalized insights"

WellDoc focuses on diabetes management, with their product, a smart phone app BlueStar, providing real-time and individualized coaching and support, as well as personalised diabetes educational tools.

Some digiceuticals work alongside conventional pharmaceutical drugs. One digiceutical firm, Voluntis, develops companion software to accompany and enhance a specific medication or medical device. The companion software monitors side effects, guides symptom management, promotes protocol adherence, recommends dosages and connects patients with their healthcare teams.

In the USA a new lobbying group, the Digital Therapeutics Alliance, has been formed and represents the industry’s leading manufacturers of clinically validated digital therapeutic (DTx) solutions. Founding members include Akili Interactive, Propeller, Voluntis, and WellDoc.

The mission of the Digital Therapeutics Alliance is to “broaden the understanding, adoption, and integration of digital therapeutic solutions into mainstream healthcare through education, advocacy, and research”.

Working with members, patient groups and partners (healthcare providers, payers, academic institutions, technology organizations, pharmaceutical manufacturers) the focus is to assess the value and impact of digital therapeutic solutions in clinical practice; to construct industry and regulatory frameworks; to optimise clinical treatment pathways; and to encourage data-driven integration and utilization across the healthcare industry.

"The focus is to assess the value and impact of digital therapeutic solutions in clinical practice"

Digital health is a rapidly innovating sector and digital therapeutics, commonly referred to as digiceuticals, represent a new era in healthcare. 

It is anticipated that there will be rapid innovation in the digiceutical space because app developers have lower barriers to entry than traditional pharmaceutical companies. We will see digiceuticals both competing with existing drugs and augmenting current therapeutic guidelines. 

Digiceuticals will be the catalyst and the driver of significant and disruptive transformation in healthcare.

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