Drug repositioning approach to target ‎viral and host cells in the terms of COVID-19 treatment: A review of ‎in vivo experiments and clinical studies

Abstract

While the COVID-19 pandemic is expanding at an alarming rate, there is currently no treatment ‎option for this disease. Therefore, it is necessary to find an effective treatment special ‎for hospitalized COVID-19 patients at the earliest possible time. One of the promising options which should be investigated is the possible effects of old drugs or ‎drug repositioning. This strategy has less risk with more economical advantages and can be beneficial for the long-term control of this pandemic. Our study aimed to give an overview, update the current status of drugs candidates (both virus-targeting and host-targeting drugs) for repurposing in COVID-19 infection, and assess the possible mechanism of their effect, in vivo antiviral efficacy, and clinical studies