Introduction
Identification of the 2019 novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and the
associated coronavirus disease (COVID-19) global pandemic is the
foremost human tragedy affecting our life today. This disease has
reached nearly every country, causing significant morbidity and
mortality as it continues to spread. The development of drugs and
vaccines is critical to win the battle against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. At
present, although different countries have employed different methods of
controlling COVID-19 based on their national conditions and health-care
systems, the general strategy is consistent: 1) flatten the growth curve
of COVID-19 infections by public health measures while reducing their
mortality by supportive care, and 2) accelerate the development of drugs
and vaccines. This article summarizes the challenges of conducting
clinical trials under pandemic conditions; describes potential options
to develop drugs for COVID-19 rapidly; discusses how to improve the
likelihood of trial successes; and reviews currently registered clinical
trials for the treatment and prevention of COVID-19 by analysing
available initial data and assessing the potential success of upcoming
trials.