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INNOSC Theranostics and
Pharmacological Sciences Drug repositioning for NTDs treatment

4. Successful implementation of drug While international collaborations can face challenges
repositioning for NTDs such as resource disparities and regulatory differences,
establishing standardized protocols and shared goals can
The successful implementation of drug repositioning, along mitigate these issues.
with other strategies, relies heavily on the collaborative and
synergistic efforts of all stakeholders involved. The efforts To ensure the success of drug repositioning for NTDs,
of various consortia and initiatives, including public– stakeholders must go beyond scientific collaboration; it
public and public–private partnerships, are crucial in necessitates a supportive policy environment, strategic
advancing the repurposing of compounds through clinical involvement from the pharmaceutical industry, proactive
trials. Such collaborative approaches pave the way for participation from research and academic institutions, and
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more effective therapies against NTDs, offering hope for robust engagement from international health organizations
improved health care in endemic regions. and public and non-profit entities (Figure 2). Collectively,
acting as a united front, these stakeholders contribute to a
A notable example of successful collaboration in drug cohesive and comprehensive framework that facilitates the
repositioning is demonstrated by the Drugs for Neglected advancement of drug repositioning for NTDs, overcoming
Diseases initiative (DNDi). DNDi’s translational research challenges, accelerating the development of effective
program effectively repurposed fexinidazole, originally therapies, and ultimately improving health outcomes in
developed as a broad-spectrum anti-infective agent in the regions burdened by these diseases.
1970s, for the treatment of Chagas disease. Fexinidazole,
selected from over 700 nitroheterocyclic compounds, was 4.1. Policy recommendations
initially repositioned by DNDi for sleeping sickness, To facilitate the widespread adoption of drug repositioning
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before being repurposed for the treatment of Chagas for NTDs, specific policy measures are essential.
disease. This achievement highlights the critical role of Governments should prioritize funding for NTD research
collaborative efforts in advancing drug repositioning and establish regulatory frameworks that expedite the
initiatives. approval process for repurposed drugs. Streamlined
Building upon such successful collaborations, countries regulatory pathways can significantly reduce the time and
with robust research capacities, advanced pharmaceutical cost involved in bringing repositioned drugs to market,
industries, and significant resources are well-positioned enhancing their accessibility to those in need.
to take a leading role in the implementation of drug In addition to government funding and supportive
repositioning strategies. By forming partnerships with policies, regulatory bodies such as the United States
low- and middle-income countries, non-governmental Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European
organizations, and global health agencies, these nations Medicines Agency (EMA) have developed mechanisms to
can significantly bolster the global fight against NTDs. fast-track drug approvals to meet urgent medical needs.

Figure 2. A collaborative partnership between governments, pharmaceutical industry, academic and research institutions, public and non-profit
organizations, and health organizations is essential to unlock the full potential of drug repositioning. This cooperation will enhance treatments for
neglected tropical diseases and transform global health outcomes.

Volume 7 Issue 4 (2024) 4 doi: 10.36922/itps.3721