Repurposed anti-worm drug shows promise in halting painful endometriosis lesions in mice

Scientists have engineered a nanomedicine version of niclosamide, an FDA-approved anti-worm drug, by linking it to a dendrimer carrier and a folate-receptor guide that targets immune cells specific to endometriosis lesions. In mouse experiments, this formulation lowered inflammatory markers and either slowed or completely halted the development of new lesions after just one injection, also relieving pain. Existing options for the disease—hormonal suppression and surgery—offer limited relief and frequently produce nausea, mood swings, or incomplete removal of tissue.

The research appears in the August issue of Advanced Healthcare Material and underscores the potential of drug repurposing for a condition affecting roughly 190 million women worldwide. Experts not involved in the work praised the approach, and the authors have already received numerous inquiries about future clinical trials. Further testing in larger animal groups and eventually humans will be required to confirm safety and efficacy.