Oxfendazole tablet formulation for Onchocerciasais

This project aims to repurpose the veterinary drug oxfendazole for human use as a macrofilaricidal treatment against onchocerciasis and other nematode infections, addressing the limitations of current mass drug administration (MDA) strategies that rely on microfilaricidal agents like ivermectin. Unlike
ivermectin, oxfendazole targets adult worms and is safe for use in Loa loa co-endemic regions, enabling test-and-treat approaches and targeted MDA in challenging settings. The proposed work focuses on developing an optimized tablet formulation with improved bioavailability for Phase 2, 3 trials and eventual
registration in low- and middle-income countries. By offering a safer, more effective, and scalable alternative, oxfendazole has the potential to accelerate elimination timelines and support integrated control of multiple neglected tropical diseases.