Key Takeaways & Executive Findings
- •• Drug repurposing accelerates COVID-19 treatment development, with several candidates showing clinical efficacy. • Remdesivir and dexamethasone have demonstrated mortality benefits in hospitalized patients. • Challenges include drug-drug interactions, optimal dosing, and patient stratification. • Future research should leverage adaptive trial designs and real-world data to optimize repurposing strategies.
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated rapid development of therapeutic strategies. Drug repurposing offers a cost-effective and time-efficient approach. This review systematically examines the landscape of antiviral drug repurposing for COVID-19, focusing on clinical trials and research progress. We analyze the mechanisms of action, efficacy, and safety profiles of repurposed drugs, including remdesivir, favipiravir, and lopinavir/ritonavir. The review highlights the importance of robust clinical trial design and the need for global collaboration. Key findings indicate that while some drugs have shown promise, challenges remain in terms of optimal dosing, timing, and patient selection. The paper concludes with recommendations for future research directions, emphasizing the integration of real-world evidence and advanced trial methodologies.
1. Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has resulted in unprecedented global health and economic burdens. The rapid spread of the virus and the emergence of variants have underscored the urgent need for effective therapeutics. While vaccines have been pivotal in reducing severe disease, antiviral treatments remain essential for managing infections, particularly in high-risk populations. However, de novo drug development is time-consuming and costly, making drug repurposing an attractive strategy.
Drug repurposing, also known as drug repositioning, involves the investigation of existing approved drugs for new therapeutic indications. This approach leverages the known safety and pharmacokinetic profiles of drugs, potentially accelerating the path to clinical use. In the context of COVID-19, numerous drugs have been repurposed, including antivirals, immunomodulators, and anticoagulants. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of antiviral drug repurposing for COVID-19, summarizing the evidence from clinical trials and highlighting key research advances.
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Zhang Wei, Li Na, Wang Fang, Chen Yu, Liu Yang (2026). Antiviral Drug Repurposing for COVID-19: A Review of Clinical Trials and Research Progress. Chinese Journal of New Drugs. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12345-024-01234-5
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is drug repurposing and why is it important for COVID-19?
Drug repurposing involves testing existing approved drugs for new medical uses. It is crucial for COVID-19 because it can significantly reduce the time and cost of developing treatments, as the safety and pharmacokinetics of these drugs are already known.
Which repurposed drugs have shown efficacy against COVID-19?
Remdesivir and dexamethasone have demonstrated clinical benefits in hospitalized patients. Remdesivir reduces recovery time, while dexamethasone lowers mortality in severe cases. Other drugs like favipiravir and lopinavir/ritonavir have shown mixed results.
What are the main challenges in drug repurposing for COVID-19?
Challenges include determining optimal dosing and timing, managing drug-drug interactions, and identifying patient subgroups most likely to benefit. Additionally, the emergence of new variants may affect drug efficacy.
How can future research improve drug repurposing strategies?
Future research should employ adaptive trial designs, incorporate real-world evidence, and foster global collaboration. Personalized medicine approaches based on biomarkers and genetic factors may also enhance treatment outcomes.
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