[COVID-19 drug candidate pipeline, an overview]

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Infectious Diseases
• Pharmacology

Background:

• The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) caused a global pandemic, leading to COVID-19.
• Despite global efforts, Japan continues to observe an increase in COVID-19 cases.
• Drug repositioning offers a faster and more cost-effective pathway for developing therapeutics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the potential of drug repositioning for controlling the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To present COVID-19 therapeutic candidates identified through drug repositioning in Japan.
• To emphasize the advantages of drug repositioning in pandemic response.

Main Methods:

• Reviewing existing drugs for repurposing against SARS-CoV-2.
• Analyzing safety and pharmacokinetic data of candidate drugs.
• Identifying drugs already approved or in clinical trials for other indications.

Main Results:

• Drug repositioning significantly shortens development timelines and reduces R&D costs.
• Existing drugs tested for safety and pharmacokinetics can bypass certain development stages.
• Japan is actively engaged in identifying drug repositioning candidates for COVID-19.

Conclusions:

• Drug repositioning is a vital strategy for rapid pandemic control.
• Ongoing research in Japan is identifying promising therapeutic agents for COVID-19.
• This approach facilitates quicker access to treatments during public health emergencies.