Drug Repurposing: New Ways for Known Medicines
Abstract
Drug repositioning is a strategy that leverages approved medications to treat diseases for which they were not originally designed. This approach reduces the time and costs associated with developing new drugs, facilitating the discovery of new therapeutic options. This review aims to explore the methodologies used, the current challenges, and the potential impact of this approach in medicine. A search was conducted in the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases using keywords related to drug repositioning, combining terms such as “repurposing” with different types of medications. The most recent information was prioritized, specifically for the last 15 years (with 2010 used as a threshold), and articles deemed irrelevant or outdated were excluded. Successful repositioning cases are highlighted, such as ibuprofen, a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID), which may offer benefits in neurodegenerative diseases. Acetylsalicylic acid, initially designed for hypertension and angina, has presented activity against cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Omeprazole, used for acid-related secretory disorders, has shown antiparasitic activity. These examples emphasize how approved drugs, with established safety profiles, can have new uses. Drug repositioning, supported by bioinformatics tools, represents a promising avenue for treating neglected diseases and improving existing therapies through drug combinations that optimize efficacy and reduce side effects.
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