Scientists at Johns Hopkins University have transformed a 40-year-old deworming drug, mebendazole, into a promising cancer-fighting compound.
Their research shows that a rare crystal form, polymorph C, crosses biological barriers more effectively than conventional versions, reaching tumors — including brain cancers — at far higher concentrations. “Our goal was to see if we could take an already safe drug and make it truly effective against cancers where options are limited,” the team wrote.
Early animal tests revealed stronger tumor suppression, acceptable toxicity and improved survival, especially when paired with a pump-blocking drug. Researchers say clinical trials could begin sooner than usual because mebendazole is already widely used and considered safe. While cautioning that mouse success doesn’t guarantee human results, experts believe polymorph C could offer an affordable option against hard-to-treat cancers if future trials confirm its potential.