It is well known that there is a high correlation between the relapse rate of mental disorders such as schizophrenia and medication adherence. Therefore, it is possible to prevent acute exacerbation of symptoms and to prevent re-hospitalization by continuing taking medication. On the other hand, it is also well known that it is very difficult for patients to keep taking medication every day for various reasons - patients don't believe drugs work, troublesome side effects or lack of insights on their diseases.
It is very important to understand their medication adherence and their reasons non-adherence, we should provide enough support for them to continue their medication, raise awareness of their disease and educate them on the necessity and importance of taking their medication. However, it is not easy for healthcare professionals, care givers and families to know how good or bad the patient's adherence is because it depends on the patients self-report or checking of the residual medicine which is not always accurate. As a result, when the patient relapses, it is challenging for the healthcare professional to determine whether it comes from poor adherence or whether the medication is effective.
Otsuka and Proteus Digital Health (hereinafter referred to as "Proteus") developed the first digital medicine "Abilify MyCite" that can measure medication adherence. It embeds a very small sensor developed by Proteus into an antipsychotic Abilify tablet marketed by Otsuka. When a patient swallows tablets, a chip emits a signal in the stomach and it is captured by a small patch which sticks to the patient's abdomen and this is recorded. The patch transmits adherence information to the patient's smartphone as well as capturing activity and rest from sensors on the patch. The transmitted information is captured on both the patient's phone as well as shared with healthcare professionals, caregivers and families with the patients' consent. Based on this information, healthcare professionals can measure the condition of the patient and assess the risk if there is a sign of recurrence such as poor adherence or abnormal sleep pattern, then take the appropriate intervention.
In November 2017, Otsuka received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for this world's first digital medicine. We will continue to contribute to patients, families and healthcare professionals through not only medicines as a pharmaceutical company but also to provide important medical information and solutions for better patient health.