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 in Loa loa co-endemic regions, enabling test-and-treat approaches and focused MDA in challenging settings. The proposed work focuses on developing an optimized tablet formulation with improved bioavailability for Phase IIb/III trials and eventual registration in LMICs. By offering a safer, more effective, and scalable alternative, oxfendazole has the potential to accelerate elimination timelines and integrate control of multiple neglected tropical diseases.