Digital Therapeutics (DTx)

Building a Digital Therapeutics (DTx) Distribution Platform

 

 

Leading the Future of Digital Therapeutics in Japan

At Shionogi, we recognize our responsibility to promote the use of Digital Therapeutics (DTx) in Japan and are committed to playing a leadership role in shaping this emerging field. As part of that mission, we have launched a project to build a DTx distribution platform that will serve as the foundation for the widespread adoption of digital treatments in the country.

 

 

The Barriers to DTx Adoption

DTx refers to evidence-based digital treatment tools—such as mobile applications—that support disease treatment, management, and prevention. Overseas, DTx has already attracted significant attention, with 56 products approved in Germany and 46 in the United States 1.
In contrast, Japan has only six approved DTx products, showing that development is still in its early stages.

Several challenges hinder the broader adoption of DTx in Japan:
low public awareness, the need for more regulatory and development model cases, and the absence of a standardized distribution and reimbursement framework.

 

 

Making DTx a Standard Option in Healthcare

Our vision is to make DTx a natural and accessible choice for everyone.
Through this initiative, we aim to standardize the DTx distribution process and unify system environments across healthcare institutions, creating a platform that promotes the seamless use of DTx and improves access to healthcare services.

 

 

A New Platform to Support DTx Distribution

This platform will integrate the entire process—from prescription at medical institutions to patient use—within a single secure system.
By standardizing security, authentication, and payment mechanisms, we aim to build an infrastructure that both patients and healthcare professionals can use with confidence.

 

 

Co-creation with Diverse Partners

The spread of DTx cannot be achieved by a single company.
To develop a platform that reflects real-world needs and challenges, we are engaging in co-creation with a wide range of partners, including pharmaceutical companies, healthcare-focused IT firms, startups, and academic and research institutions.
Together, we are shaping a sustainable foundation for Japan’s digital health ecosystem.
Co-creation with Diverse Partners

Impact on Healthcare and Society

The establishment of the DTx distribution platform will:

・Enable patients to continue treatment safely from home, reducing hospital visits and easing healthcare disparities.

・It may help prevent disease progression and reduce overall healthcare costs.

・Optimize the use of limited healthcare resources and support the growth of Japan’s digital health industry.

Ultimately, by strengthening this foundation, we aim to deliver Japan-origin DTx innovations to the world.

Standardizing prescription and distribution processes / Achieving unified DTx distribution