A recent study published in the Science Translational Journal (December 2024) has revealed that dextromethorphan, a widely used ingredient in over-the-counter cough syrups, has the potential to treat pulmonary fibrosis, a severe lung disease that causes progressive scarring of lung tissue. Conducted by researchers at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), the study suggests that dextromethorphan can slow lung fibrosis, offering new hope for patients with limited treatment options.

Key Highlights:
Pulmonary Fibrosis and Current Treatment Limitations:

• Pulmonary fibrosis leads to lung scarring, breathing difficulties, and organ failure.

• Existing medications, pirfenidone and nintedanib, only slow disease progression but do not halt or reverse the condition.

• No permanent cure currently exists for pulmonary fibrosis.

Dextromethorphan’s Role in Lung Fibrosis Treatment:

• The study found that dextromethorphan blocks collagen formation, which is responsible for lung scarring.

• Research was conducted using scar-in-a-jar models, human lung slice models, and lung fibroblasts.

• Unlike existing drugs, dextromethorphan works through a different mechanism, making it a promising candidate for combination therapy with pirfenidone or nintedanib.

Expert Opinions on Drug Repurposing:

• Dr. Sanjith Saseedharan, Director - Critical Care, S L Raheja Hospital - A Fortis Associate:

“This discovery opens up the possibility of using dextromethorphan in combination with existing pulmonary fibrosis treatments, potentially enhancing therapeutic outcomes.”

• Dr. Swapnil M. Khadake, Chief Intensivist, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital Vashi:

“Repurposing dextromethorphan, an FDA-approved drug, could accelerate its availability for pulmonary fibrosis treatment, addressing a major gap in care.”

Next Steps for Research and Development:

• Further translational research in animal models and human clinical trials is required to confirm its effectiveness.

• Scientists will continue investigating why and how dextromethorphan works, with the potential to develop improved variants of the drug.

• If clinical trials are successful, it could significantly extend the life expectancy of pulmonary fibrosis patients, which currently averages five years for those aged 50-60.

The potential repurposing of dextromethorphan for pulmonary fibrosis represents a major breakthrough in lung disease treatment. While further research and human trials are needed, this development could bring new hope to patients worldwide suffering from a condition with limited therapeutic options.