When does an app need FDA’s blessing?

Some apps help people look up symptoms, check drug side effects or locate. Some even measure blood pressure and blood sugar and send the readings off to the doctor. As a result, the Food and Drug Administration has concluded that at least some apps should undergo review by the agency before being permitted on the market. Dr. Jeffrey Shuren, who heads the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health, stresses that the FDA has no plans to review most apps, such as those that help with wellness, healthier lifestyles. Same goes for those used to help patients manage their medical conditions. "The risk to patients are very, very low," he says.