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Malla R, Viswanathan S, Makena S, Kapoor S, Verma D, Raju AA, Dunna M, Muniraj N. Revitalizing Cancer Treatment: Exploring the Role of Drug Repurposing. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1463. [PMID: 38672545 PMCID: PMC11048531 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer persists as a global challenge necessitating continual innovation in treatment strategies. Despite significant advancements in comprehending the disease, cancer remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide, exerting substantial economic burdens on healthcare systems and societies. The emergence of drug resistance further complicates therapeutic efficacy, underscoring the urgent need for alternative approaches. Drug repurposing, characterized by the utilization of existing drugs for novel clinical applications, emerges as a promising avenue for addressing these challenges. Repurposed drugs, comprising FDA-approved (in other disease indications), generic, off-patent, and failed medications, offer distinct advantages including established safety profiles, cost-effectiveness, and expedited development timelines compared to novel drug discovery processes. Various methodologies, such as knowledge-based analyses, drug-centric strategies, and computational approaches, play pivotal roles in identifying potential candidates for repurposing. However, despite the promise of repurposed drugs, drug repositioning confronts formidable obstacles. Patenting issues, financial constraints associated with conducting extensive clinical trials, and the necessity for combination therapies to overcome the limitations of monotherapy pose significant challenges. This review provides an in-depth exploration of drug repurposing, covering a diverse array of approaches including experimental, re-engineering protein, nanotechnology, and computational methods. Each of these avenues presents distinct opportunities and obstacles in the pursuit of identifying novel clinical uses for established drugs. By examining the multifaceted landscape of drug repurposing, this review aims to offer comprehensive insights into its potential to transform cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- RamaRao Malla
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, GITAM School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam 530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Sathiyapriya Viswanathan
- Department of Biochemistry, ACS Medical College and Hospital, Chennai 600007, Tamil Nadu, India;
| | - Sree Makena
- Maharajah’s Institute of Medical Sciences and Hospital, Vizianagaram 535217, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Shruti Kapoor
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Deepak Verma
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | | | - Manikantha Dunna
- Center for Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Hyderabad 500085, Telangana, India
| | - Nethaji Muniraj
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children’s National Hospital, 111, Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010, USA
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Rohilla A, Rohilla S. Drug Repositioning: A Monetary Stratagem to Discover a New Application of Drugs. Curr Drug Discov Technol 2024; 21:e101023222023. [PMID: 38629171 DOI: 10.2174/0115701638253929230922115127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Drug repurposing, also referred to as drug repositioning or drug reprofiling, is a scientific approach to the detection of any new application for an already approved or investigational drug. It is a useful policy for the invention and development of new pharmacological or therapeutic applications of different drugs. The strategy has been known to offer numerous advantages over developing a completely novel drug for certain problems. Drug repurposing has numerous methodologies that can be categorized as target-oriented, drug-oriented, and problem-oriented. The choice of the methodology of drug repurposing relies on the accessible information about the drug molecule and like pharmacokinetic, pharmacological, physicochemical, and toxicological profile of the drug. In addition, molecular docking studies and other computer-aided methods have been known to show application in drug repurposing. The variation in dosage for original target diseases and novel diseases presents a challenge for researchers of drug repurposing in present times. The present review critically discusses the drugs repurposed for cancer, covid-19, Alzheimer's, and other diseases, strategies, and challenges of drug repurposing. Moreover, regulatory perspectives related to different countries like the United States (US), Europe, and India have been delineated in the present review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankur Rohilla
- Department of Pharmacology, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, 140413, Mohali, India
| | - Seema Rohilla
- Department of Pharmacy, Panipat Institute of Engineering and Technology, Panipat, Haryana, India
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Greenblatt W, Gupta C, Kao J. Drug Repurposing During The COVID-19 Pandemic: Lessons For Expediting Drug Development And Access. Health Aff (Millwood) 2023; 42:424-432. [PMID: 36877896 DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2022.01083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic created a large, sudden unmet public health need for rapid access to safe and effective treatments. Against this backdrop, policy makers and researchers have looked to drug repurposing-using a drug previously approved for one indication to target a new indication-as a means to accelerate the identification and development of COVID-19 treatments. Using detailed data on US clinical trials initiated during the pandemic, we examined the trajectory and sources of drug repurposing initiatives for COVID-19. We found a rapid increase in repurposing efforts at the start of the pandemic, followed by a transition to greater de novo drug development. The drugs tested for repurposing treat a wide range of indications but were typically initially approved for other infectious diseases. Finally, we documented substantial variation by trial sponsor (academic, industry, or government) and generic status: Industry sponsorship for repurposing occurred much less frequently for drugs with generic competitors already on the market. Our findings inform drug repurposing policy for both future emerging diseases and drug development in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley Greenblatt
- Wesley Greenblatt, Harvard University, Boston Children's Hospital, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Charu Gupta
- Charu Gupta, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jennifer Kao
- Jennifer Kao , University of California Los Angeles
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4
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Mitra S, Sultana SA, Prova SR, Uddin TM, Islam F, Das R, Nainu F, Sartini S, Chidambaram K, Alhumaydhi FA, Emran TB, Simal-Gandara J. Investigating forthcoming strategies to tackle deadly superbugs: current status and future vision. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2022; 20:1309-1332. [PMID: 36069241 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2022.2122442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Superbugs are microorganisms that cause disease and have increased resistance to the treatments typically used against infections. Recently, antibiotic resistance development has been more rapid than the pace at which antibiotics are manufactured, leading to refractory infections of pathogenic bacteria. Scientists are concerned that a particularly virulent and lethal "superbug" will one day join the ranks of existing bacteria that cause incurable diseases, resulting in a global health disaster on the scale of the Black Death. AREAS COVERED Therefore, this study highlights the current developments in the management of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and recommends strategies for further regulating antibiotic-resistant microorganisms associated with the healthcare system. This review also addresses the origins, prevalence, and pathogenicity of superbugs, and the design of antibacterial against these growing multidrug-resistant organisms from a medical perspective. EXPERT OPINION It is recommended that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) should be addressed by limiting human-to-human transmission of resistant strains, lowering the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, and developing novel antimicrobials. Using the risk-factor domains framework from this study would assure that not only clinical but also community and hospital-specific factors are covered, lowering the chance of confounders. Extensive subjective research is necessary to fully understand the underlying factors and uncover previously unexplored areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saikat Mitra
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Sifat Ara Sultana
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Shajuthi Rahman Prova
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Tanvir Mahtab Uddin
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Fahadul Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh
| | - Rajib Das
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Firzan Nainu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, South Sulawesi 90245, Indonesia
| | - Sartini Sartini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hasanuddin University, Makassar 90245, Indonesia
| | - Kumarappan Chidambaram
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad A Alhumaydhi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 52571, Saudi Arabia
| | - Talha Bin Emran
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh.,Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong 4381, Bangladesh
| | - Jesus Simal-Gandara
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Vigo - Ourense Campus, E32004 Ourense, Spain
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Abstract
Drug repurposing refers to finding new indications for existing drugs. The paradigm shift from traditional drug discovery to drug repurposing is driven by the fact that new drug pipelines are getting dried up because of mounting Research & Development (R&D) costs, long timeline for new drug development, low success rate for new molecular entities, regulatory hurdles coupled with revenue loss from patent expiry and competition from generics. Anaemic drug pipelines along with increasing demand for newer effective, cheaper, safer drugs and unmet medical needs call for new strategies of drug discovery and, drug repurposing seems to be a promising avenue for such endeavours. Drug repurposing strategies have progressed over years from simple serendipitous observations to more complex computational methods in parallel with our ever-growing knowledge on drugs, diseases, protein targets and signalling pathways but still the knowledge is far from complete. Repurposed drugs too have to face many obstacles, although lesser than new drugs, before being successful.
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Repurposing approved therapeutics for new indication: Addressing unmet needs in psoriasis treatment. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PHARMACOLOGY AND DRUG DISCOVERY 2021; 2:100041. [PMID: 34909670 PMCID: PMC8663928 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphar.2021.100041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune condition manifested by the hyperproliferation of keratinocytes with buildup of inflammatory red patches and scales on skin surfaces. The available treatment options for the management of psoriasis have various drawbacks, and the clinical need for effective therapeutics for this disease remain unmet; therefore, the approaches of drug repurposing or drug repositioning could potentially be used for treating indications of psoriasis. The undiscovered potential of drug repurposing or repositioning compensates for the limitations and hurdles in drug discovery and drug development processes. Drugs initially approved for other indications, including anticancer, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and anti-arthritic activities, are being investigated for their potential in psoriasis management as a new therapeutic indication by using repurposing strategies. This article envisages the potential of various therapeutics for the management of psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune inflammatory skin disorder with complex physiology. Conventional treatments for psoriasis cause severe adverse effects; therefore an unmet need remains for safer and more effective therapies for psoriasis. Various drugs that effectively decrease the inflammation and proliferation of skin cells can be repurposed for the management of psoriasis. Repurposed drugs provide various incentives to the pharmaceutical industry.
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Khatri DK, Kadbhane A, Patel M, Nene S, Atmakuri S, Srivastava S, Singh SB. Gauging the role and impact of drug interactions and repurposing in neurodegenerative disorders. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PHARMACOLOGY AND DRUG DISCOVERY 2021; 2:100022. [PMID: 34909657 PMCID: PMC8663985 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphar.2021.100022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (ND) are of vast origin which are characterized by gradual progressive loss of neurons in the brain region. ND can be classified according to the clinical symptoms present (e.g. Cognitive decline, hyperkinetic, and hypokinetic movements disorder) or by the pathological protein deposited (e.g., Amyloid, tau, Alpha-synuclein, TDP-43). Alzheimer's disease preceded by Parkinson's is the most prevalent form of ND world-wide. Multiple factors like aging, genetic mutations, environmental factors, gut microbiota, blood-brain barrier microvascular complication, etc. may increase the predisposition towards ND. Genetic mutation is a major contributor in increasing the susceptibility towards ND, the concept of one disease-one gene is obsolete and now multiple genes are considered to be involved in causing one particular disease. Also, the involvement of multiple pathological mechanisms like oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, etc. contributes to the complexity and makes them difficult to be treated by traditional mono-targeted ligands. In this aspect, the Poly-pharmacological drug approach which targets multiple pathological pathways at the same time provides the best way to treat such complex networked CNS diseases. In this review, we have provided an overview of ND and their pathological origin, along with a brief description of various genes associated with multiple diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Multiple sclerosis (MS), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Huntington's and a comprehensive detail about the Poly-pharmacology approach (MTDLs and Fixed-dose combinations) along with their merits over the traditional single-targeted drug is provided. This review also provides insights into current repurposing strategies along with its regulatory considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dharmendra Kumar Khatri
- Corresponding authors. Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Telangana, 500037, India.
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Shashi Bala Singh
- Corresponding authors. Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Telangana, 500037, India.
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8
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Gatti M, De Ponti F. Drug Repurposing in the COVID-19 Era: Insights from Case Studies Showing Pharmaceutical Peculiarities. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13030302. [PMID: 33668969 PMCID: PMC7996547 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13030302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 may lead to severe respiratory distress syndrome and high risk of death in some patients. So far (January 2021), only the antiviral remdesivir has been approved, although no significant benefits in terms of mortality and clinical improvement were recently reported. In a setting where effective and safe treatments for COVID-19 are urgently needed, drug repurposing may take advantage of the fact that the safety profile of an agent is already well known and allows rapid investigation of the efficacy of potential treatments, at lower costs and with reduced risk of failure. Furthermore, novel pharmaceutical formulations of older agents (e.g., aerosolized administration of chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine, remdesivir, heparin, pirfenidone) have been tested in order to increase pulmonary delivery and/or antiviral effects of potentially active drugs, thus overcoming pharmacokinetic issues. In our review, we will highlight the importance of the drug repurposing strategy in the context of COVID-19, including regulatory and ethical aspects, with a specific focus on novel pharmaceutical formulations and routes of administration.
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9
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Kim H, Alten R, Cummings F, Danese S, D'Haens G, Emery P, Ghosh S, Gilletta de Saint Joseph C, Lee J, Lindsay JO, Nikiphorou E, Parker B, Schreiber S, Simoens S, Westhovens R, Jeong JH, Peyrin-Biroulet L. Innovative approaches to biologic development on the trail of CT-P13: biosimilars, value-added medicines, and biobetters. MAbs 2021; 13:1868078. [PMID: 33557682 PMCID: PMC7889098 DOI: 10.1080/19420862.2020.1868078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The biosimilar concept is now well established. Clinical data accumulated pre- and post-approval have supported biosimilar uptake, in turn stimulating competition in the biologics market and increasing patient access to biologics. Following technological advances, other innovative biologics, such as “biobetters” or “value-added medicines,” are now reaching the market. These innovative biologics differ from the reference product by offering additional clinical or non-clinical benefits. We discuss these innovative biologics with reference to CT-P13, initially available as an intravenous (IV) biosimilar of reference infliximab. A subcutaneous (SC) formulation, CT-P13 SC, has now been developed. Relative to CT-P13 IV, CT-P13 SC offers clinical benefits in terms of pharmacokinetics, with comparable efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity, as well as increased convenience for patients and reduced demands on healthcare system resources. As was once the case for biosimilars, nomenclature and regulatory pathways for innovative biologics require clarification to support their uptake and ultimately benefit patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- HoUng Kim
- Celltrion Healthcare , Incheon, Republic of Korea.,Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Rieke Alten
- Rheumatology Research Center, Schlosspark-Klinik Charité, University Medicine Berlin , Berlin, Germany
| | - Fraser Cummings
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust , Southampton, UK
| | - Silvio Danese
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University , Milan, Italy
| | - Geert D'Haens
- Department of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Amsterdam University Medical Centers , Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul Emery
- Leeds NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, The Leeds Teaching Hospital Trust, and Leeds Institute of Rheumatic & Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds , UK
| | - Subrata Ghosh
- The Institute of Translational Medicine, Immunology and Immunotherapy, NIHR BRC, University of Birmingham , Birmingham, UK
| | | | - JongHyuk Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Life and Health Science, Hoseo University , Asan, Republic of Korea
| | - James O Lindsay
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust , London, UK
| | - Elena Nikiphorou
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, King's College, London, and Rheumatology Department, King's College Hospital , London, UK
| | - Ben Parker
- Kellgren Centre for Rheumatology, Manchester Royal Infirmary, NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre , Manchester, UK
| | - Stefan Schreiber
- Department of Medicine I, Christian-Albrechts-University, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein , Kiel, Germany
| | - Steven Simoens
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven , Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rene Westhovens
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center , Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ji Hoon Jeong
- Department of Global Innovative Drugs, Graduate School of Chung-Ang University and Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University , Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Laurent Peyrin-Biroulet
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nancy University Hospital , Vandoeuvre-Les-Nancy, France.,Inserm U1256 NGERE, Lorraine University , Vandoeuvre-Les-Nancy, France
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10
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Mehta PP, Dhapte-Pawar VS. Repurposing drug molecules for new pulmonary therapeutic interventions. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2020; 11:1829-1848. [PMID: 33188495 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-020-00874-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Drug repurposing with novel strategies has substantially contributed to the identification and analysis of new molecules for better pulmonary intervention. This review would offer insights into the drug repurposing for effective pulmonary therapy. The review begins by explaining the relevant background knowledge of drug repurposing, the need for drug repurposing, and their potential advantages in treating pulmonary diseases. This article takes into account clinical trial problems, drug delivery challenges, regulatory issues, and human ergonomics along with chemistry manufacturing and control strategies for effective pulmonary drug repurposing. This article elaborates on pulmonary drug repurposing with help of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threat analysis. In brief, this article is the first inclusive account of drug repurposing for better pulmonary therapy. Graphical abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piyush P Mehta
- Department of Quality Assurance Technique, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune-38, Maharashtra, India
| | - Vividha S Dhapte-Pawar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune-38, Maharashtra, India.
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Old active ingredients in new medicinal products: is the regulatory path coherent with patients' expectations? Drug Discov Today 2020; 25:1337-1347. [PMID: 32485225 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2020.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The rising costs of new medicinal products are a challenge to the economic sustainability of national healthcare systems in ensuring patients' access to therapies. European Union (EU) and US legislators have provided regulatory pathways aimed at simplifying Marketing Authorization (MA) applications for new medicinal products in cases when safety and efficacy profiles can be derived from the data of already-marketed products. In this review, we discuss the different regulatory pathways towards the MA of new medicinal products containing old drug substances and intended to improve the therapeutic value of a treatment, to obtain a new therapeutic indication (drug repositioning), or to ensure the same therapeutic value of a reference product at lower costs.
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12
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Verbaanderd C, Rooman I, Meheus L, Huys I. On-Label or Off-Label? Overcoming Regulatory and Financial Barriers to Bring Repurposed Medicines to Cancer Patients. Front Pharmacol 2020; 10:1664. [PMID: 32076405 PMCID: PMC7006723 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Repurposing of medicines has gained a lot of interest from the research community in recent years as it could offer safe, timely, and affordable new treatment options for cancer patients with high unmet needs. Increasingly, questions arise on how new uses will be translated into clinical practice, especially in case of marketed medicinal products that are out of basic patent or regulatory protection. The aim of this study was to portray the regulatory framework relevant for making repurposed medicines available to cancer patients in Europe and propose specific policy recommendations to address the current regulatory and financial barriers. We outlined two routes relevant to the clinical adoption of a repurposed medicine. First, a new indication can be approved, and thus brought on-label, via the marketing authorization procedures established in European and national legislation. Such procedures initiate a detailed and independent assessment of the quality and the benefit-risk balance of a medicinal product in a specific indication, benefiting both prescribers and patients as it reassures them that the scientific evidence is robust. However, the process of marketing authorization for new therapeutic indications entails a high administrative burden and significant costs while the return-on-investment for the pharmaceutical industry is expected to be low or absent for medicines that are out of basic patent and regulatory protection. Moreover, most of the repurposing research is conducted by independent or academic researchers who do not have the expertise or resources to get involved in regulatory procedures. A second option is to prescribe a medicine off-label for the new indication, which is managed at the national level in Europe. While off-label use could provide timely access to treatments for patients with urgent medical needs, it also entails important safety, liability and financial risks for patients, physicians, and society at large. In view of that, we recommend finding solutions to facilitate bringing new uses on-label, for example by developing a collaborative framework between not-for-profit and academic organizations, pharmaceutical industry, health technology assessment bodies, payers, and regulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciska Verbaanderd
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Anticancer Fund, Strombeek-Bever, Belgium
| | - Ilse Rooman
- Anticancer Fund, Strombeek-Bever, Belgium.,Oncology Research Centre, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Isabelle Huys
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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14
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Verbaanderd C, Meheus L, Huys I, Pantziarka P. Repurposing Drugs in Oncology: Next Steps. Trends Cancer 2017; 3:543-546. [PMID: 28780930 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2017.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The repurposing of existing non-cancer drugs is a potential source of new treatment options for cancer patients with high unmet medical needs. While scientific research is progressing rapidly in the field of drug repurposing, the implementation of drug repurposing still faces important financial and regulatory hurdles that should be addressed to optimise clinical adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciska Verbaanderd
- Anticancer Fund, Brussels, 1853 Strombeek-Bever, Belgium; Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lydie Meheus
- Anticancer Fund, Brussels, 1853 Strombeek-Bever, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Huys
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pan Pantziarka
- Anticancer Fund, Brussels, 1853 Strombeek-Bever, Belgium; The George Pantziarka TP53 Trust, London KT1 2JP, UK.
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15
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Drug discovery for hearing loss: Phenotypic screening of chemical compounds on primary cultures of the spiral ganglion. Hear Res 2017; 349:177-181. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2016.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Revised: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Nayroles G, Frybourg S, Gabriel S, Kornfeld Å, Antoñanzas-Villar F, Espín J, Jommi C, Martini N, de Pouvourville G, Tolley K, Wasem J, Toumi M. Unlocking the potential of established products: toward new incentives rewarding innovation in Europe. JOURNAL OF MARKET ACCESS & HEALTH POLICY 2017; 5:1298190. [PMID: 28740616 PMCID: PMC5508393 DOI: 10.1080/20016689.2017.1298190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/10/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Background: Many established products (EPs - marketed for eight years or more) are widely used off-label despite little evidence on benefit-risk ratio. This exposes patients to risks related to safety and lack of efficacy, and healthcare providers to liability. Introducing new indications for EPs may represent a high societal value; however, manufacturers rarely invest in R&D for EPs. The objective of this research was to describe incentives and disincentives for developing new indications for EPs in Europe and to investigate consequences of current policies. Methods: Targeted literature search and expert panel meetings. Results: Within the current European-level and national-level regulatory framework there are limited incentives for development of new indications with EPs. Extension of indication normally does not allow the price to be increased or maintained, the market protection period to be extended, or exclusion from a reference price system. New indication frequently triggers re-evaluation, resulting in price erosion, regardless of the level of added value with the new indication. In consequence, manufacturers are more prone to undertake R&D efforts at early to mid-stage of product life cycle rather than with EPs, or to invest in new chemical entities, even in therapeutic areas with broad off-label use. This represents a potentially missed opportunity as developing new indications for EPs offers an alternative to off-label use or lengthy and expensive R&D for new therapies, opens new opportunities for potentially cost-effective treatment alternatives, as well as greater equity in patients' access to treatment options. Conclusion: There are potential benefits from the development of new indications for EPs that are currently not being realized due to a lack of regulatory and pricing incentives in Europe. Incentives for orphan or paediatric drugs have proven to be effective in promoting R&D. Similarly, incentives to promote R&D in EPs should be developed, for the benefit of patients and healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Nayroles
- Global Market Access and Pricing, IPSEN Pharma, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Sandrine Frybourg
- Pricing, Reimbursement and Market Access, Creativ-Ceutical, Paris, France
| | - Sylvie Gabriel
- Global Market Access and Pricing, IPSEN Pharma, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Åsa Kornfeld
- Pricing, Reimbursement and Market Access, Creativ-Ceutical, Paris, France
| | | | - Jaime Espín
- Andalusian School of Public Health, Granada, Spain
| | - Claudio Jommi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
- Centre for Research on Health and Social Care Management (CERGAS), Bocconi University, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Jürgen Wasem
- Department of Economics, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Mondher Toumi
- Department of Public Health, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
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17
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Caban A, Pisarczyk K, Kopacz K, Kapuśniak A, Toumi M, Rémuzat C, Kornfeld A. Filling the gap in CNS drug development: evaluation of the role of drug repurposing. JOURNAL OF MARKET ACCESS & HEALTH POLICY 2017; 5:1299833. [PMID: 28473889 PMCID: PMC5405562 DOI: 10.1080/20016689.2017.1299833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Background and objective: Background and objective: Drug repurposing has been considered a cost-effective and reduced-risk strategy for developing new drugs. Little is known and documented regarding the efficiency of repurposing strategies in drug development. The objective of this article is to assess the extent and meaning of this process in the CNS area. Methods: In order to identify repurposed drugs that target the CNS, an extensive search was performed. For each identified case, its initial and target indication, development status and the type of repurposing strategy (repositioning, reformulation or both) was recorded. Results: One hundred and eighteen source products were identified. They were repurposed (mainly repositioned) 203 times with 81 products repurposed once and 38 products repurposed twice or more. The highest number of source drugs originated from the CNS area. Alzheimer's disease was targeted most often. Half of the new indications were approved. Regarding repurposing within the CNS area, epilepsy, schizophrenia and depression were the richest sources of repurposed drugs. Conclusions: Repurposing drugs into CNS is an efficient and very active drug development method, exemplified by the considerable number of new indications that have been found via this strategy, with approximately half of the target indications currently under development.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Caban
- Creativ-Ceutical, Pricing & Market Access Department, Krakow, Poland
| | - K. Pisarczyk
- Creativ-Ceutical, Pricing & Market Access Department, Krakow, Poland
| | - K. Kopacz
- Creativ-Ceutical, Pricing & Market Access Department, Krakow, Poland
| | - A. Kapuśniak
- Creativ-Ceutical, Pricing & Market Access Department, Krakow, Poland
| | - M. Toumi
- Faculté de Médecine, Laboratoire de Santé Publique, Aix-Marseille Université, Université de la Méditerranée, Marseille Cedex, France
| | - C. Rémuzat
- Creativ-Ceutical, Pricing & Market Access Department, Paris, France
| | - A. Kornfeld
- Creativ-Ceutical, Pricing & Market Access Department, Paris, France
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18
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Bertolini F, Sukhatme VP, Bouche G. Drug repurposing in oncology--patient and health systems opportunities. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2015; 12:732-42. [PMID: 26483297 DOI: 10.1038/nrclinonc.2015.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 204] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In most countries, healthcare service budgets are not likely to support the current explosion in the cost of new oncology drugs. Repurposing the large arsenal of approved, non-anticancer drugs is an attractive strategy to offer more-effective options to patients with cancer, and has the substantial advantages of cheaper, faster and safer preclinical and clinical validation protocols. The potential benefits are so relevant that funding of academically and/or independently driven preclinical and clinical research programmes should be considered at both national and international levels. To date, successes in oncology drug repurposing have been limited, despite strong evidence supporting the use of many different drugs. A lack of financial incentives for drug developers and limited drug development experience within the non-profit sector are key reasons for this lack of success. We discuss these issues and offer solutions to finally seize this opportunity in the interest of patients and societies, globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Bertolini
- Laboratory of Hematology-Oncology, European Institute of Oncology, Via Ripamonti 435, 20141 Milan, Italy
| | - Vikas P Sukhatme
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Gauthier Bouche
- Anticancer Fund, 1853 Strombeek-Bever, Brussels 1853, Belgium
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19
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MacPherson R. The curious stories of drugs with two lives: a new paradigm in drug development. J R Soc Med 2015; 108:255-8. [PMID: 25827907 PMCID: PMC4530410 DOI: 10.1177/0141076815578653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 372] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ross MacPherson
- Royal North Shore Hospital, Pacific Highway, St Leonards, New South Wales 2065, Australia
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20
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Kreeftmeijer-Vegter AR, de Boer A, van der Vlugt-Meijer RH, de Vries PJ. The influence of the European paediatric regulation on marketing authorisation of orphan drugs for children. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2014; 9:120. [PMID: 25091201 PMCID: PMC4237943 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-014-0120-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Drug development for rare diseases is challenging, especially when these orphan drugs (OD) are intended for children. In 2007 the EU Paediatric Drug Regulation was enacted to improve the development of high quality and ethically researched medicines for children through the establishment of Paediatric Investigation Plans (PIPs). The effect of the EU Paediatric Drug Regulation on the marketing authorisation (MA) of drugs for children with rare diseases was studied. Methods Data on all designated orphan drugs, their indication, MA, PIPs and indication group (adult or child) were obtained from the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The outcome and duration of the process from orphan drug designation (ODD) to MA, was compared, per indication, by age group. The effect of the Paediatric Drug Regulation, implemented in 2007, on the application process was assessed with survival analysis. Results Eighty-one orphan drugs obtained MA since 2000 and half are authorised for (a subgroup of) children; another 34 are currently undergoing further investigations in children through agreed PIPs. The Paediatric Drug Regulation did not significantly increase the number of ODDs with potential paediatric indications (58% before vs 64% after 2007 of ODDs, p = 0.1) and did not lead to more MAs for ODs with paediatric indications (60% vs 43%, p = 0.22). ODs authorised after 2007 had a longer time to MA than those authorised before 2007 (Hazard ratio (95% CI) 2.80 (1.84-4.28), p < 0.001); potential paediatric use did not influence the time to MA (Hazard ratio (95% CI) 1.14 (0.77-1.70), p = 0.52). Conclusions The EU Paediatric Drug Regulation had a minor impact on development and availability of ODs for children, was associated with a longer time to MA, but ensured the further paediatric development of drugs still off-label to children. The impact of the Paediatric Drug Regulation on research quantity and quality in children through PIPs is not yet clear.
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21
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Toumi M, Jadot G. Economic impact of new active substance status on EU payers' budgets: example of dimethyl fumarate (Tecfidera(®)) for multiple sclerosis. JOURNAL OF MARKET ACCESS & HEALTH POLICY 2014; 2:23932. [PMID: 27226838 PMCID: PMC4865780 DOI: 10.3402/jmahp.v2.23932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2014] [Revised: 02/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, collaboration between regulators and payers was set up and was mainly focused on evidence generation along product clinical development. However, neither the regulatory path nor the new active substance status (NASs) was considered. Granting NASs will provide the product with 8 years of data protection and 2 years of market exclusivity during which no generic could enter the market. OBJECTIVE To review the economic impact (for payers) of NASs granted by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for dimethyl fumarate (DMF), developed by Biogen and approved for multiple sclerosis (MS) as Tecfidera(®) on 3 February 2014. METHOD We reviewed the available DMF-containing products and identified their indication and price through relevant databases and official Web sites. The economic impact of Tecfidera(®) on payers' budgets was calculated assuming NASs was or was not granted. The forecast was identified in Datamonitor. RESULTS Results identified four products already containing DMF as the main or unique active substance. This would have potentially prevented Tecfidera(®) from being granted NASs. The EMA Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) denied Tecfidera(®) NASs and, following a company appeal, reversed its position opening as polemic. The impact of that decision has been evaluated at €7 to €10 billion over a 10-year period. CONCLUSION NASs is a critical decision because it does have a major budget impact for payers, and it prevents generic competition. Current European Union (EU) regulations on that topic are unclear and open up too many interpretations thus distorting fair trade and affecting payers' bills. Greater clarity and more stringent rules are required to prevent mistrust of this EMA decision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mondher Toumi
- UFR d'Odontologie, University Claude Bernard Lyon I, FR-69100, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Guy Jadot
- Laboratoire « Santé, Individu, Société »-EAM 4128 Faculté de Médecine Laënnec 7-11 rue Guillaume Paradin – Bât B, Lyon, France
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22
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Murteira S, Millier A, Toumi M. Drug repurposing in pharmaceutical industry and its impact on market access: market access implications. JOURNAL OF MARKET ACCESS & HEALTH POLICY 2014; 2:22814. [PMID: 27226833 PMCID: PMC4865758 DOI: 10.3402/jmahp.v2.22814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2013] [Revised: 12/21/2013] [Accepted: 01/05/2014] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug repurposing is a group of development strategies employed in order to overcome some of the hurdles innate to drug research and development. Drug repurposing includes drug repositioning, reformulation and combination. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to identify the determinants of successful market access outcome for drug repurposing in the United States of America (USA) and in Europe. METHODS The case studies of repurposing strategies were identified through a systematic review of the literature. Price information and reimbursement conditions for all the case studies were collected mainly through access of public datasources. A list of attributes that could be associated with market access outcome (price level and reimbursement conditions) was developed, discussed, and validated by an external expert group. Detailed information for all attributes was researched and collected for each case study. Bivariate regression models were conducted to identify factors associated with price change for all repurposing cases. A similar analysis was performed for reformulation and repositioning cases, in the USA and in Europe, separately. A significance level of 5% was used for all analyses. RESULTS A total of 144 repurposing case studies were included in the statistical analysis for evaluation of mean price change. Combination cases (the combination of two or more individual drug components) were excluded from the statistical analysis due to the low number of cases retrieved. The main attributes associated with a significant price increase for overall repurposing cases were 'change in administration setting to hospital' (374%, p<0.0001), 'addressing unmet needs' (69%, p<0.05), 'reformulations belonging to Group 3'-that is, change in administration route (117%, p<0.001), and being a repurposed product with the 'same brand name' as the original product (65%, p<0.05). CONCLUSION We found that the ability of the repurposed product to address unmet needs, a reformulation where the target product had a different administration route than the source product, and having a similar brand name for repurposed and original products, were variables that impacted a positive price change for repurposed drugs overall. Our research results also suggested that orphan designation could have a positive impact for repositioning in the USA, in particular. Although a change of administration from ambulatory to hospital setting seemed to be significantly correlated with a price increase for the target product, only one case was retrieved for this parameter; as such, it was not possible to infer a firm correlation between this parameter and a change in price.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Murteira
- University of Lyon, University Claude Bernard Lyon I, UFR d'Odontologie, 11 rue Guillaume Paradin, 69372 Lyon, Cedex 08, France
- Lundbeck SAS, 37-45, Quai du Président Roosevelt, 92445 Issy-les-Moulineaux, Cedex, Paris, France
| | - Aurélie Millier
- Creativ-Ceutical S.A., 215, rue du Faubourg St-Honoré 75008 Paris, France
| | - Mondher Toumi
- University of Lyon, University Claude Bernard Lyon I, UFR d'Odontologie, 11 rue Guillaume Paradin, 69372 Lyon, Cedex 08, France
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