Orchid Pharma and Cipla to launch antibiotic Cefepime-Enmetazobactam in India

New Delhi: To combat the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), Chennai-based Orchid Pharma Limited has partnered with Cipla Limited to launch the novel antibiotic Cefepime-Enmetazobactam in India. Approved for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI), hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), this drug represents a milestone for India’s pharmaceutical industry.

Orchid Pharma, known for being the only Indian pharmaceutical company to have invented a New Chemical Entity (NCE), aims to address critical healthcare challenges through this strategic collaboration with Cipla. The partnership leverages Orchid’s innovative drug development and Cipla’s extensive distribution network to ensure rapid and widespread access to this life-saving medication across India.

Manish Dhanuka, Managing Director of Orchid Pharma, highlighted, “With increasing resistance to the current drugs most commonly used for the treatment of these indications – e.g. Piperacillin-Tazobactam for cUTI – doctors were forced to start using Carbapenems – a reserve drug meant to be used when most other drugs don’t work. Now, Orchid’s Cefepime-Enmetazobactam will allow doctors to spare Carbapenems, prolonging their effective life by restricting their use.”

Umang Vohra, Managing Director and Global Chief Executive Officer of Cipla emphasized, “AMR is an urgent and serious healthcare challenge that needs global attention. With the rising incidence of potentially life-threatening infections, there is a strong need for novel anti-infectives in the effective treatment of MDR infections. This partnership enhances Cipla’s commitment to AMR stewardship and strengthens our efforts to combat infectious diseases and deliver advanced, innovative therapies to patients.”

Both companies will collaborate closely with healthcare professionals to ensure the appropriate use of this new antibiotic combination. They plan to develop educational initiatives and guidelines for prescribing to maximize the drug’s benefits while minimizing the risk of further antimicrobial resistance.