REPURPOSING OLD DRUGS FOR NEW INDICATION: AN EMERGING STRATEGY

Drug repurposing, also known as drug repositioning, is the process of identifying new therapeutic uses for existing drugs that have already been approved for other diseases. This approach has gained significant attention in recent years as it offers a cost-effective and time- efficient alternative to the traditional drug discovery process. By utilizing the existing safety, pharmacokinetic, and formulation data of known drugs, researchers can bypass several early- stage development steps, reducing both the financial and time burdens. Drug repurposing has proven particularly beneficial in addressing urgent medical needs such as rare diseases, neurological disorders, cancer, and viral outbreaks like COVID-19. Advances in computational biology, artificial intelligence, and high-throughput screening techniques have further enhanced the ability to identify new indications for established drugs. However, despite its potential, drug repurposing also faces challenges including regulatory constraints, intellectual property disputes, and the need for robust clinical validation. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of drug repurposing, discussing its mechanisms, methodologies, clinical applications, and challenges. Additionally, it explores how future technologies and collaborations can enhance the efficiency and success of repurposing efforts. The ultimate goal of this strategy is to expand therapeutic options while ensuring patient safety and reducing the overall cost of drug development. Drug repurposing thus represents a promising approach that could revolutionize pharmacotherapy by bringing effective treatments to patients faster and more efficiently.