Drug Repurposing in the Genomic Era: A Strategic Approach towards Precision Oncology

Abstract

Drug repurposing offers a promising strategy to accelerate cancer treatment by finding new uses for existing drugs, reducing developmental time and cost while leveraging known safety profiles. This approach addresses key limitations in conventional oncology drug development, particularly the inefficiencies of single-target strategies and high failure rates in early phase trials. Repurposed drugs provide clinicians with additional therapeutic options, often suited for combination therapies and personalized regimens. However, substantial challenges persist, ranging from regulatory and financial disincentives to underpowered clinical studies and dosing uncertainties. Despite these barriers, advancements in omics technologies, real-world data analytics, and pharmacogenomics are paving the way for more precise and impactful repurposing efforts. With continued investment, innovative trial models, and multi-disciplinary collaboration, drug repurposing could become a foundational strategy in precision oncology, reshaping the future of cancer care.

Keywords: Drug Repurposing, Precision Oncology, Cancer, Clinical Trials, Metformin, Off-label Drugs.