Mechanisms of action for digital therapeutics

Schmidt L, Langenberger B, Schirmann F, Reif S, Stern AD (2026)

Publication Type: Journal article, Review article

Publication year: 2026

Journal

npj Digital Medicine Nature Research

Book Volume: 9

Article Number: 274

Journal Issue: 1

DOI: 10.1038/s41746-026-02502-y

Abstract

Digital therapeutics (DTx) are increasingly established, yet their mechanisms of action (MoA) remain underexplored. This article defines and categorizes DTx MoA through a novel conceptual framework, distinguishing them from conventional treatments. We specifically conceptualize therapeutic elements, cognitive-affective and behavioral changes, and segment the notion of “dose” into distinct categories. This actionable framework provides a systematic basis for enhancing DTx research, design, and clinical effectiveness.

Authors with CRIS profile

Simon Reif

Involved external institutions

Hasso-Plattner-Institut für Digital Engineering gGmbH (HPI) DE Germany (DE) Oviva AG DE Germany (DE) Zentrum für Europäische Wirtschaftsforschung (ZEW) DE Germany (DE)

How to cite

APA:

Schmidt, L., Langenberger, B., Schirmann, F., Reif, S., & Stern, A.D. (2026). Mechanisms of action for digital therapeutics. npj Digital Medicine, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41746-026-02502-y

MLA:

Schmidt, Linea, et al. "Mechanisms of action for digital therapeutics." npj Digital Medicine 9.1 (2026).

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