Medical Development Disruptions from COVID-19

From non-essential businesses shutting down to distancing ordinances across major cities around the globe, most people have already felt the effects of the novel coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19).

Beyond the economic and social impact of COVID-19, the pharmaceutical industry will experience a significant disruption in drug manufacturing, research, and development. 

Specifically, clinical trials necessary in medical research may experience delays and even suspensions as a result of the novel coronavirus. An estimated third of the nation’s trials are at risk, according to recent surveys.

The Scope of the Disruption

According to a database search by BioMedTracker, over 120 high-profile clinical trials with potentially promising results would be at risk of delay due to the virus. The market value of these results would likely be over $300 million.

The pandemic will also stifle progress for an additional 160 mid-stage studies. Patients in the drug market rely on the data from these clinical trials. COVID-19 will also delay the introduction of new medicines despite efforts from regulatory agencies like the United States Food and Drug Administration.

The Challenges

The industry trade group BIO reports on two major challenges facing clinical trials during the pandemic.

First, hospitals having to deal with multiple COVID-19 cases will be unable to collect data from clinical trials. Second, starting new trials will be difficult, as enrolling patients for testing is risky in the current environment.

Treatments At Risk

The study and release of many new treatments are at risk of suspension due to COVID-19. Among them are filgotinib, a potential treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and diseases of the immune system. In order to protect patient safety, enrollment in the drug’s testing will suffer delays.

Other treatments at risk of suspension include:

• Tezepelumab, an asthma medicine from Amgen
• Mitapivat, a treatment for rare diseases by Agios Pharma
• Ozanimod, a treatment for relapsing multiple sclerosis from Bristol-Myers Squibb
• Omecamtiv mecarbil, a heart failure drug by Amgen and Cytokinetics
• Fitusiran, a hemophilia therapy from Sanofi and Alnylam Pharma

As hospitals divert resources toward the medical care of COVID patients, other treatments like gene and cell therapy will experience interruptions, as they require extensive hospital visits. CRISPR-based treatments for rare diseases are also on the list.

For example, Roche Pharma and other gene therapy developers may feel the impact of COVID-19 in the coming months.

Information Is the Most Valuable Asset During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Ensure that your employees are working with up to date information when it comes to anything related to COVID-19. The Center for Professional Innovation and Education is an important resource that your company can use to improve your employee’s knowledge when it comes to important pharmaceutical regulations, training, and other key areas.

We offer a wide variety of pharmaceutical training courses that can help your employees stay informed when it matters most. 

Are you interested in signing up for some of our courses? Our company is now online training to help our students access the information they need during this deadly pandemic. Get in touch with a member of the CfPIE team today to learn more.