Complex Systems with Patrick McKenzie (patio11) From molecule to medicine, with Ross Rheingans-Yoo
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Oct 31, 2024 
In this discussion, Ross Rheingans-Yoo, an expert in drug development, delves into the complexities of drug approval processes, revealing systemic inefficiencies and the evolving landscape of clinical trials. He reflects on historical events like the thalidomide crisis and how they shaped FDA policy, while also highlighting the impact of the AIDS epidemic and COVID-19 on accelerated approvals. Ross shares his innovative work in rescuing abandoned drugs and emphasizes the need for integrating technology into medicine to enhance patient care and streamline drug development.
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Stop COVID Recruitment
- WashU's Stop COVID trial's patient recruitment was hampered by a 200-question survey.
- Patrick McKenzie improved conversion rates by simplifying it to four questions.
Trial Comparison
- The TOGETHER trial in Brazil recruited patients much faster than the Stop COVID trial in the US.
- This allowed TOGETHER to achieve statistically significant results for fluvoxamine’s efficacy, while Stop COVID did not.
Pharmaceutical Economics
- Drug development is a hits-driven business, demanding high revenues.
- This incentivizes focusing on chronic conditions treated by insured Americans, often for years.