Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg.  2023 Aug;66(8):505-513. 10.3342/kjorl-hns.2023.00731.

Drug Repositioning for Treatment of Head and Neck Cancers

• Kwon M

• KMID: 2545235
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3342/kjorl-hns.2023.00731

Abstract

Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a complex disease that poses significant therapeutic challenges. Traditional treatment options such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy have limited efficacy and often result in significant side effects. In recent years, drug repositioning has emerged as a promising strategy to identify new therapeutic options for HNC. Drug repositioning involves repurposing existing drugs, already approved for other indications, for the treatment of HNC. This approach takes advantage of existing knowledge about drug safety and efficacy, reducing the time and cost needed to develop new drugs. By leveraging the known safety profiles, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic properties of these drugs, drug repositioning can accelerate the drug development process and reduce costs. In this review, the current status of drug repositioning efforts for HNC and the challenges and opportunities associated with this approach are discussed. We also highlight some of the most promising drug candidates that have emerged from recent studies and clinical trials. Overall, drug repositioning has the potential to significantly improve the treatment landscape for HNC and offer new hope for patients with this challenging disease.

Keyword

Combination drug therapy; Drug repositioning; Head and neck cancer