Drug Development for NTDs

Drug development for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) involves a series of steps to create effective treatments for diseases that mostly affect impoverished populations. It starts with research to identify potential drug candidates, followed by laboratory testing for safety and effectiveness. Promising candidates then undergo clinical trials in humans to confirm they work well and are safe. After regulatory approval, the drugs can be manufactured and distributed. Challenges include limited funding and market incentive, as NTDs are often neglected by mainstream pharmaceutical companies. Collaborative efforts from governments, NGOs, and researchers are essential to advance drug development for these diseases.