Single Biggest Cancer Dictionary in the World

What is

orphan drug

?

Pronunciation: /ˈɔrfən drəg/

orphan drug

Definition

A drug used to treat, prevent, or diagnose an orphan disease. An orphan disease is a rare disease or condition that affects fewer than 200,000 people in the United States. Orphan diseases are often serious or life threatening. In 1983, the U.S. government passed a law, called the Orphan Drug Act, to give drug companies certain financial benefits for developing orphan drugs that are safe and effective.