Digital Therapeutics
DIJ-ih-tul ther-ah-PYOO-tiks
/ˈdɪdʒɪtəl ˌθɛrəˈpjuːtɪks/Listen
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Syllable breakdown
Dictionary meaning
Software-based interventions — delivered via apps, devices, or platforms — that prevent, manage, or treat medical conditions using clinically validated evidence, often regulated as medical devices
History and origin
Formalised as a category by the Digital Therapeutics Alliance (DTA) from around 2016; the FDA has approved DTx products for conditions including substance use disorder, ADHD, and diabetes
Examples
- EndeavorRx, an FDA-cleared digital therapeutic, uses a video game to improve attention in children with ADHD.
- Digital therapeutics require clinical trial evidence and regulatory clearance to distinguish them from wellness apps.
Synonyms: DTx, prescription digital therapeutics, software-as-a-medical-device
Pronunciation tips
Abbreviated DTx; 'prescription digital therapeutics' (PDT) require a doctor to prescribe them
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