Mechanisms of action for digital therapeutics.

Schmidt, Linea; Langenberger, Benedikt; Schirmann, Felix; Reif, Simon; Stern, Ariel Dora · NPJ Digit Med · 2026

review · Level V

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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.