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.