Manitoba Pharmacy Jurisprudence Practice Exam

What is an orphan drug?

1. A drug with no known use

2. A drug used for a condition it was not originally marketed for

3. A drug that has been banned

4. A best-selling medication

The correct answer is: A drug used for a condition it was not originally marketed for

An orphan drug is a medication that has been specifically developed to treat a rare medical condition, typically affecting less than 200,000 people in the United States. It is not a drug with no known use (A) because it is specifically targeted for treating a rare disease. It is also not a banned drug (C) as it has been approved by the FDA for use. It is also not a best-selling medication (D) as it is intended for a small patient population and may not be widely used. Thus, the correct answer is B, as it accurately describes the unique purpose of an orphan drug.