Get ready for the first “smart pill” to make its way to medicine cabinets. Otsuka’s Abilify MyCite, the only FDA-approved digital pill, just took another step toward patients thanks to a deal with Magellan Health to distribute the med through its network of mental health providers.
Approved to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, the electronic version of Abilify is designed to help patients take their meds as directed—and, if they choose, to enlist other people in the effort. Abilify MyCite records the date and time a patient takes a pill and relays that information, along with activity level, to a personal smartphone app where patients can add information about their mood, sleep and other health stats.