Exploring the Leading Instances of Digital Therapeutics

Digital Therapeutics, often referred to as DTx, stands out as a prominent term in the realm of digital health. Unlike other trending concepts such as NFT and Metaverse, DTx represents a significant trend capable of delivering immediate, impactful enhancements in personalized healthcare.

Understanding Digital Therapeutics

According to the Digital Therapeutics Alliance, the primary governing body:

“Digital therapeutics (DTx) provide evidence-based therapeutic interventions powered by sophisticated software programs to prevent, manage, or treat medical disorders or diseases. These interventions can be standalone or used alongside medications, devices, or other therapies to enhance patient care and health outcomes.”

In simpler terms, DTx offers evidence-based, clinically supported solutions to manage and enhance health conditions through software and other digital health tools.

For those seeking further insights, the official DTx Value Assessment & Integration Guide is available for download.

Key Applications

The landscape of DTx solutions continues to expand rapidly. While the Alliance maintains a product repository, they acknowledge that it is not exhaustive. Presently, certain healthcare sectors are notably leveraging DTx’s potential. Notably, diabetes care and mental health applications dominate, with some operating on a subscription-based model.

Aside from these established areas, emerging ventures within the field show promise and warrant close observation.

Advantages of Digital Therapeutics

DTx solutions are predominantly delivered through smartphone applications, offering widespread accessibility. This accessibility is key to the adoption of any new solution. Moreover, it affords a level of privacy, enabling treatments to reach patients directly at home and reducing associated stigmas linked to various therapies.

Summarizing the basics, let’s explore a few compelling real-world examples:

1. Atopic Dermatitis (eczema) treatment

Sidekick Health, a digital therapeutics company, has collaborated with pharmaceutical giant Pfizer to introduce a digital therapeutic solution for Atopic Dermatitis (AD). This strategic partnership aligns with three crucial criteria for success:

A partnership between a digital health firm and a pharmaceutical company
Focus on digital therapeutics
Dedication to a niche area, specifically atopic dermatitis

Targeting niche areas with precise solutions often proves more successful than attempting to address a broad spectrum of healthcare needs.

Initial outcomes are promising, with patients reporting significant symptom reduction and improved adherence to treatments and preventive measures.

2. Cancer treatment

Sidekick recently announced a collaboration with Eli Lilly to support Lilly’s oncology treatment initiatives, focusing on addressing critical pain points in breast cancer care. The partnership is set to commence in Germany in July 2022, potentially expanding to other regions.

Key pain points include pain management, nausea, anxiety, treatment comprehension, adherence challenges, and often, feelings of isolation from the care team.

Another notable DTx solution for cancer treatment is offered by Kaiku Health, featuring a CE-marked application catering to 25 different cancer types across multiple countries.

3. DTx for behavioral health conditions

New York-based Happify launched Ensemble, an app designed to transform negative thinking patterns and foster healthy habits. Subsequently, the company introduced Basis, a non-prescription DTx app for managing stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms.

Both solutions target specific issues with a defined audience, avoiding the common pitfall of attempting to address all health conditions simultaneously.

The company’s broader offerings include condition-specific communities, AI-based or live health coaching, and a Wellness app designed for a general audience.

4. DTx for sleep-wake disorders and substance abuse

Pear Therapeutics developed Somryst, a prescription-only DTx app for treating insomnia in patients over 22. The app employs sleep restriction and consolidation techniques, accompanied by a clinician-facing dashboard for monitoring patient progress.

Pear Therapeutics also offers other prescription-only DTx solutions like reSET and reSET-O for substance use disorders and Opioid Use Disorders, incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy under clinician supervision.

An upcoming solution, reSET-A, aims to address alcohol addiction and has received Breakthrough Device Designations from the FDA.

5. Chronic Pain Treatments

DTx tools have proven effective in managing chronic pain, with virtual reality (VR) demonstrating significant symptom relief, garnering FDA approval.

Noteworthy solutions like RelieVRx and HelloBetter utilize cognitive behavioral therapy principles to alleviate chronic pain. AppliedVR, the developer of RelieVRx, is advancing applications for chronic back pain management and other pain and anxiety-related conditions.

These examples merely scratch the surface. The DTx Alliance’s product library showcases a range of solutions targeting diverse symptoms, from pediatric ADHD to adult asthma and migraines.

The critical question ahead concerns the swift integration of these solutions into routine healthcare practices. The future holds the promise of DTx as a potent tool for patient empowerment, leading to improved health outcomes and more fulfilling treatment options for healthcare providers.

The post These Are The Top Examples Of Digital Therapeutics appeared firstjson The Medical Futurist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between holistic and alternative medicine?

Holistic medicine treats all aspects of the person: mind, body, soul, and spirit. It considers all aspects a person’s wellbeing, including the emotional, spiritual, as well as environmental factors, that are often ignored by traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can be used to treat certain conditions like asthma, allergies, arthritis, or other medical issues.

Why do people with cancer use alternative methods?

Cancer patients are often faced with many challenges when they try to find ways to cope with their illnesses. Some patients may believe they are doomed to failure or that there is no way out. Some symptoms include nausea, vomiting, headaches, weight loss, and fatigue.

In addition, conventional treatments are often not effective against cancer cells. Cancer patients often seek alternative therapies such as complementary medicine. Research shows that nearly half of patients have used alternative medicine at least once in their treatment.

Complementary medicine is often chosen by cancer patients over chemotherapy. It’s easier to manage side effect. They may also prefer it because it is less expensive.

These are just a few of the reasons why you might want to consider them:

Some patients believe that natural remedies can help prevent a recurrence.

Many people believe that natural remedies could improve the quality and quantity of their lives.

Others believe that natural remedies can reduce the risk of getting cancer again.

Natural remedies are first-line therapy for those who are concerned about side effects from chemotherapy.

What does holistic refer to?

Holistic is a holistic approach. Holistic means to see the whole picture and not just a part. This isn’t always possible because we tend not to see things as a whole.

Our default mentality is to see things in black and white. In reality, there are infinite shades of grey.

It is important to consider all angles when working on a project. You should look at it from all sides.

You should try to see it all as one. How do its various elements interact with each other?

And if you find a problem, ask yourself why this particular element is causing trouble. Also, consider the impact of any changes that you make.

Who uses holistic medicines?

Holistic medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that treats the whole person, not just specific symptoms. It addresses both the mental as well as physical aspects of well being.

Holistic medicine encompasses acupuncture and massage therapy, chiropractic treatment as well as nutritional counseling, yoga and other complementary therapies.

Holistic medicine is for people who have been diagnosed as having cancer, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis and depression.

What is the distinction between holistic medicine and traditional medicines?

Traditional medicine only treats symptoms. Holistic medicine treats the entire person. Holistic medicine considers the patient as an entire person, rather than focusing on one aspect.

Traditional medicine treats certain organs, systems, or diseases (e.g. the brain), while holistic medicines consider all aspects and the entire body. It also considers how lifestyle choices can affect overall wellness.

What is the difference between Naturopathic Medicine and Holistic Medicine,

The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies heavily on drugs and surgery to treat its patients. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not considered a substitute for conventional treatment but rather an addition to helping patients who want to take control of their healthcare by choosing what they believe is most appropriate.

Naturopathy, on one hand, can be used to complement traditional medical practices. The whole person, mind and spirit are treated by naturopathy. There are many kinds of naturopathy.

It is important not to forget that some CAM modalities overlap or complement conventional medicine. Both doctors and naturopaths may prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths emphasize lifestyle changes more than prescription drugs.

Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” as it works in conjunction with conventional medicine and not to replace it. Naturopaths can prescribe medication when necessary.

There are some differences in naturopathic medicine from other CAM modalities.

Naturopaths don’t usually prescribe medication.
Naturopaths may work alongside the patient’s family doctor and may refer patients to specialists if needed.
Naturopathic physicians are regulated by provincial licensing boards, whereas CAM practitioners are self-regulated.
Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and well-being while also educating about diet and exercise.
Naturopaths strongly emphasize lifestyle factors, which include nutrition, sleep, stress management, exercise, and mental well-being.
Naturopharmacists specialize on the treatment of certain conditions with botanicals or minerals.
Naturopodists receive individualized care according to the unique needs of each patient.
Regulators such as the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario license Naturopaths.
The provincial regulatory bodies issue licenses to naturopatrists.
The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors has registered Naturopaticians.
The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia licenses Naturotherapists.
The United States National Board of Medical Examiners accredits Naturobiotic therapists.
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency entitles homeopaths.
The term “holistic” refers the belief that all aspects, including physical, spiritual, social, and mental, should be taken into consideration when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will not focus on just one aspect of the equation but consider all elements.

Statistics

According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)

External Links

How To

What are the 4 types of complementary or alternative medicine?

The main categories of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) are mind-body, natural products as well as manipulative therapies. Mind-body medicine encompasses yoga, Tai Chi, Reiki and massage therapy. It also includes homeopathy, homeopathy, aromatherapy (reflexology), naturopathy biofeedback, Hypnosis, hypnosis, and chiropractic care. Natural products are herbs, vitamins, minerals and dietary supplements. Manipulative treatments include physical manipulations, including acupuncture, chiropractic, and osteopathic treatment. Prayer and visualization are some of the techniques used for energy healing.

CAM refers to a variety of health practices that are not in line with Western medical models. There are many differences in the scientific support for these practices, including whether they involve drugs and surgery, as well as which conditions they treat. Some CAM doctors also provide diagnostic testing (e.g. Blood tests) and can prescribe medication. Others do neither.

In addition to these four primary categories, there are many subcategories within each category. Mind-body medicine is comprised of relaxation techniques, mindfulness, guided imagery and self-hypnosis. There are also deep breathing exercises, meditations, progressive muscle relaxation, stress management, biofeedback and visualization. Natural products include nutritional supplements, botanical remedies, homeopathic remedies and essential oils. Manual, movement or traction can be used to manipulate the body. Spiritual healing includes faith healing and prayer.

Many CAM remedies treat symptoms, but don’t address the cause. Some chronic diseases may be treated with CAM. If used appropriately, CAM can complement conventional treatment options.

There are many different reasons people use the CAM.

To improve their overall well being.
To manage a certain condition.
To decrease pain or discomfort.
To prevent illness.
To promote wellness.
To address a personal belief.

Because it gives them more control than traditional medicine, some people choose CAM. It may have fewer side effects. Others choose CAM to avoid taking prescription medications. Still, others prefer not to take pharmaceuticals if possible. Others seek out CAM after having bad experiences with traditional medicine.

Some people who use CAM say they want to be sure about what they are doing before trying something new. Many CAM users ask questions about the safety and effectiveness of CAM. Others rely on word of mouth from friends and family members.

Although CAM may be seen as a negative thing in society, most people who use it report positive feelings. People who use CAM are more happy and healthier than those who do not. This is true regardless age, gender and race.

A majority of Americans have used some type of alternative or complementary medicine. 95% or more of adult Americans have used some type of CAM in their lives. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health was able to estimate that around 40 million people visited CAM practitioners in 2010 alone.

The NCCIH estimates 10 percent of the U.S. populace uses chiropractors.

2013 was a year that the American Medical Association (AMA) reaffirmed its support of integrative medicine. The American Medical Association recognized the need for physicians to “integrate scientifically supported complementary and alternate medicine into clinical practice…to satisfy patients’ needs and expectations.”5

The Institute of Medicine published a groundbreaking report in 2007 entitled “Relaxing Contraints: Improving access to Complementary and Alternative Healthcare.” It concluded that there is no credible evidence that any particular CAM intervention is effective in treating or preventing cancer.

CAM continues its popularity despite the fact that it has been proven to be very popular. In 2008, CAM practitioners saw an 8 percent increase in number compared with 2007.

Recent research found that nearly half of respondents used CAM in their primary healthcare routine.

CAM therapies can include natural products, mind/body practices, manipulative methods, energy healing techniques, exercise, dietary supplementation, and other approaches.

Many CAM therapies are used primarily to relieve pain, but they also have many other benefits like relaxation, improved mood and better sleep.

Acupuncture can, for example help with chronic back pain, anxiety and depression, improve immune function as well as promote weight loss.

Many CAM treatments draw on Ayurvedic and Chinese traditional medicine. These roots can be traced back thousands of decades.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which originated in China 5,000 years back, has been practiced in China ever since.

TCM is an important component of modern health care.

TCM treatment is now used by over 70% of American citizens.

Another popular CAM therapy is yoga. Yoga was first developed in India around 5000 B.C. Yoga is now widely accepted worldwide.

Yoga has become increasingly popular with the general public because it offers physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits.

Yoga can relieve stress, improve flexibility, and increase strength.

Yoga has been shown to improve sleep33, even though there is not much scientific evidence. It may also be beneficial for insomnia sufferers.

Other CAM therapies, such as meditation, homeopathy, aromatherapy, are also becoming more mainstream.

One of the most common types of CAM used today is herbal medicine.

Herbal medicines are made up of herbs, spices flowers, seeds fruits, nuts, bark, leaves and roots.

These drugs are frequently considered safer than pharmaceutical drugs and are popularly used by consumers.

The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health estimates that about 90 million Americans use some form of complementary/alternative medicine.

The American Cancer Society reports that 45% (or more) of those diagnosed with cancer have used alternative medicines during their illness.

The National Institutes of Health estimates that 60% of patients with cancer use CAM, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about 50% of all cancer survivors report using CAM.

According to a recent study, 51% cancer survivors have used at the very least one type of CAM.

However, only 8.8% of them discussed it with their physicians.

This communication gap between conventional medical providers, CAM users and traditional doctors is a major problem in healthcare delivery.

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