Can a texting bot keep lung cancer patients on track?

NCT ID NCT04347161

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests a text-message chatbot called 'Penny' that sends reminders and checks in on symptoms for lung cancer patients taking daily targeted therapy pills. 75 patients will either use the chatbot or get usual care, and researchers will measure how well they stick to their medication schedule. The goal is to see if a simple, automated system can improve adherence and help manage side effects.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Conversational agent/chatbot (text message-based)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could give doctors a simple, low-cost tool to help lung cancer patients take their daily pills on time and manage side effects better.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study (75 people) testing a behavioral tool, not a new drug. The chatbot may not improve adherence enough to make a real difference in health outcomes.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

lung cancer lung neoplasm Medication Adherence non-small cell lung carcinoma Signs and Symptoms

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Pennsylvania

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States