Old Drugs, New Cures Act
Old Drugs, New Cures Act
Plain Language Summary
# Old Drugs, New Cures Act (HR 2542) — Summary **What the Bill Does** The Old Drugs, New Cures Act would allow pharmaceutical companies to develop and market new uses for existing medications that have already been approved by the FDA. Currently, drugs are approved for specific medical conditions. This bill would create a pathway for companies to test and gain approval for those same drugs to treat different diseases or conditions, potentially speeding up patient access to new treatment options without requiring entirely new drug development. **Who It Affects** The bill would primarily benefit patients with diseases that might be treatable with existing drugs, pharmaceutical companies seeking to develop new applications for their products, and potentially healthcare costs if it reduces the time and expense of bringing new treatments to market. Regulatory agencies like the FDA would need to implement new approval processes under this framework. **Current Status** As of now, HR 2542 is in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House.
The bill was introduced by Representative Donald G. Davis (D-NC) in the 119th Congress. Without additional action or co-sponsorship, it remains in the early stages of the legislative process.
Latest Action
Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.