Allem defined that whereas research-based digital interventions had demonstrated efficacy in managed settings, commercially accessible apps confirmed unreliable variability in therapeutic method, transparency, and proof base. He emphasised the medical threat posed by unvalidated instruments, noting that “generally the recommendation given is inappropriate or may very well be hurt selling” when sufferers use these purposes. Such steering, he noticed, may delay efficient therapy, undermine motivation for conduct change, and even inadvertently encourage substance use.
Many corporations keep away from oversight by the US Meals and Drug Administration by advertising and marketing their merchandise as basic wellness instruments quite than medical units, thereby circumventing necessities for proof, analysis, or high quality requirements. Allem highlighted the necessity for regulatory frameworks, third-party assessments, and clearer documentation of medical claims. He additionally pointed to latest Congressional scrutiny of youth interactions with companion bots, underscoring broader issues about digital instruments used for medical functions being delivered with out guardrails.2
He really helpful that clinicians information sufferers towards validated, evidence-based digital applications, like these incorporating cognitive-behavioral remedy or motivational interviewing, whereas advocating for regulation that ensures security, accuracy, and equitable entry to efficient digital therapeutics.
Dr Allem is an affiliate professor of social and behavioral well being sciences at Rutgers Faculty of Public Well being and a core member of the Institute of Nicotine and Tobacco Research at Rutgers. His full paper on apps for substance use dysfunction might be discovered
References
1. Russell AM, Colditz JB, Allem JP.
2. O&I subcommittee: innovation with integrity: analyzing the dangers and advantages of AI chatbots. Home Committee on Power and Commerce. November 18, 2025. Accessed November 25, 2025.