Existing Drugs Show Promise in Preventing SARS-CoV-2 Replication

Introduction

Recent research led by a global team of scientists indicates that several existing medications can hinder the replication of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. Given the protracted timeline for vaccine development, the repositioning of clinically tested drugs has emerged as a viable method for discovering treatments for new infectious diseases like COVID-19.

Repurposing Antiviral Therapies

Numerous clinical studies have concentrated on the repurposing of various antiviral treatments. Notably, Remdesivir has received emergency use authorization for COVID-19 treatment, as clinical trials have demonstrated its potential to reduce recovery time.

Analysis of Drug Collections

An international team published a study in Nature, analyzing one of the largest collections of known drugs. This comprehensive library comprised around 12,000 clinical-stage or FDA-approved small molecules. Laboratory tests confirmed that 100 of these compounds exhibited antiviral properties, with 21 proving effective at concentrations deemed safe for human use.

Synergistic Effects with Remdesivir

Among the findings, four drugs were identified that function synergistically with Remdesivir, known for its ability to shorten recovery times in COVID-19 patients. Extensive testing was conducted on human lung biopsies to assess the antiviral effects, dose-response relationships, and interactions with Remdesivir.

Potential Therapeutic Options

Twenty-one drugs were effective in blocking SARS-CoV-2 replication. Notably, two of these drugs are already FDA-approved for other medical conditions. One of the four drugs that works in conjunction with Remdesivir has advanced to phase 3 clinical trials. The existing clinical safety data for some of these drugs is promising for discovering new therapeutic options for COVID-19.

Ongoing Research and Future Prospects

While some drugs are currently under clinical investigation, others represent additional candidates that could expand treatment possibilities. There is a pressing need to identify medications that can be used alongside Remdesivir or offered prophylactically at the initial signs of infection.

Next Steps for Drug Approval

All 21 identified molecules are undergoing tests in small animal models. Should these trials prove successful, the drugs will be submitted to the FDA for approval to enter clinical trials aimed at treating coronavirus. The known safety profiles of these drugs in humans may expedite their clinical evaluation for COVID-19 treatment.

Conclusion

The ongoing exploration of existing drugs for COVID-19 treatment presents a hopeful avenue for therapeutic advancements, potentially leading to more effective treatment strategies for managing this global health crisis.

Author Information

Written by Helen Massy, BSc.

References

EurekAlert!. 2020. Nature Study Identifies 21 Existing Drugs That Could Treat COVID-19. [online] Available at: [Accessed 27 July 2020].
Riva, L., Yuan, S., Yin, X. et al. Discovery of SARS-CoV-2 antiviral drugs through large-scale compound repurposing. Nature (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-020-2577-1
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