Drug repositioning and repurposing: terminology and definitions in literature

作者：Langedijk Joris; Mantel Teeuwisse Aukje K^*; Slijkerman Diederick S; Schutjens Marie Helene D B

来源：Drug Discovery Today, 2015, 20(8): 1027-1034.

DOI：10.1016/j.drudis.2015.05.001

Drug repositioning and similar terms have been a trending topic in literature and represent novel drug development strategies. We analysed in a quantitative and qualitative manner how these terms were used and defined in the literature. In total, 217 articles referred to 'drug repositioning', 'drug repurposing', 'drug reprofiling', 'drug redirecting' and/or 'drug rediscovery'. Only 67 included a definition ranging from brief and general to extensive and specific. No common definition was identified. Nevertheless, four common features were found: concept, action, use and product. The different wording used for these features often leads to essential differences in meaning between definitions. In case a clear definition is needed, for example from a legal or regulatory perspective, the features can provide further guidance.

• 出版日期2015-8