Introduction to Drug Repurposing: Exploring New Applications for Existing Drugs

Abstract

This chapter delves into the concept of drug repurposing, which involves identifying new therapeutic applications for existing drugs. Drug repurposing offers a cost-effective and time-efficient approach to drug discovery by leveraging the knowledge and safety profiles of approved or investigational drugs. The chapter provides an overview of the principles and strategies employed in drug repurposing, including high-throughput screening, repurposing based on mechanistic insights, computational methods, and the increasing role of artificial intelligence in drug repurposing, as this is an emerging trend in the field. It explores successful case studies where repurposed drugs have shown promise in treating different diseases. Furthermore, the chapter discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with drug repurposing, including regulatory considerations and intellectual property issues. Overall, this chapter serves as a valuable resource for researchers and professionals in the field of drug development, emphasizing the potential of repurposing existing drugs to address unmet medical needs.