Characterization of Apps and Other e-Tools for Medication Use: Insights Into Possible Benefits and Risks.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In the past years, an enormous increase in the number of available health-related applications (apps) has occurred, from approximately 5800 in 2011 to over 23,000 in 2013, in the iTunes store. However, little is still known regarding the use, possible effectiveness, and risks of these applications. In this study, we focused on apps and other e-tools related to medicine use. A large subset of the general population uses medicines and might benefit from tools that aid in the use of medicine.

Objective

The aim of the present study was to gain more insight into the characteristics, possible risks, and possible benefits of health apps and e-tools related to medication use.

Methods

We first made an inventory of apps and other e-tools for medication use (n=116). T

SUBMITTER: van Kerkhof LW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4838755 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature