Orchid Pharma & Cipla Partner To Launch New Antibiotic Cefepime-Enmetazobactam In India

Orchid Pharma, based in Chennai, and Cipla have announced a strategic partnership to launch the new antibiotic Cefepime-Enmetazobactam in India. 

The company in a press statement on Saturday said that this novel anti-infective, invented by Orchid Pharma, aims to address the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and has been approved for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI), hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP).

This landmark collaboration combines Orchid Pharma's innovative drug development with Cipla's extensive distribution network to ensure rapid and widespread access to this breakthrough antibiotic across India. The launch of Cefepime-Enmetazobactam marks a significant milestone for India's pharmaceutical industry, reinforcing the country’s leadership in medical innovation.

Manish Dhanuka, Managing Director of Orchid Pharma, highlighted the importance of this new drug, stating, "With increasing resistance to commonly used drugs for these indications, doctors were forced to use Carbapenems, a reserve drug. Orchid's Cefepime-Enmetazobactam will allow doctors to spare Carbapenems, prolonging their effective life."

Umang Vohra, Managing Director & Global Chief Executive Officer of Cipla, emphasised the urgency of addressing AMR, saying, "AMR is a serious healthcare challenge requiring global attention. There is a strong need for novel anti-infectives for effective treatment of multi-drug-resistant infections. This partnership enhances Cipla’s commitment to AMR stewardship and strengthens our efforts to combat infectious diseases with advanced, innovative therapies."