What act incentivizes research for new uses of drugs?

The FDA Modernization Act of 1997 plays a significant role in promoting research for new uses of drugs through several provisions designed to facilitate the drug approval process. One of the key features of this act is the establishment of a more streamlined regulatory framework that encourages pharmaceutical companies to explore new indications for existing medications. This is particularly important because it can lead to the re-purposing of drugs, maximizing their therapeutic potential and providing patients with valuable treatment options that had not been previously considered.

In addition, the act introduced an expedited approval process for certain types of drugs, which includes those for serious or life-threatening conditions, thereby incentivizing companies to invest in research and development. By reducing the barriers and time frames associated with regulatory approval, the FDA Modernization Act effectively encourages innovation in drug development.

Other choices, while significant in their own right, do not specifically incentivize research for new drug uses. The Kefauver-Harris Amendment primarily focuses on drug efficacy and safety standards established in the wake of the thalidomide tragedy, while the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act lays the foundation for drug regulation without targeting research incentives directly. The Controlled Substances Act regulates the handling and distribution of controlled substances but does not address research incentives related to drug indications.