This analysis highlights the crucial role of small-molecule antivirals in controlling viral pandemics, suggesting needed R&D investments in public health strategies.
Harbingers of infectious viral pandemics, such as the H1N1 influenza, SARS, Zika, Ebola, MERS, and SARS-CoV-2, caused major outbreaks in the first two decades of the 21st century. Despite warnings, therapeutic tools that could be rapidly and sustainably scaled at a global level when SARS-CoV-2 emerged were lacking. Small-molecule antivirals can play a crucial role in both individual patient care and broader public health strategies for controlling and mitigating the impact of viral diseases. Despite their utility, lack of R&D investment in this class of intervention has prevented the world from reaping the benefits they can deliver. The INTREPID Alliance 2025 publication of the Antiviral Clinical and Preclinical Development Landscape – 4th Edition, revealed significant gaps in the development pipeline. No antivirals are in clinical development for 4 of the of 13 viral families designated by the World Health Organization as viral families of pandemic and endemic concern.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Draghia‐Akli et al. (2025) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: