Key Points

Cipla has launched India's first non-antibiotic treatment for recurrent urinary tract infections called HUENA. This innovative drug offers effective prevention without contributing to antibiotic resistance, which is a growing global concern. UTIs are the second-most common reason for antibiotic use in India, with cases doubling over the last 30 years. The launch represents a major advancement in antimicrobial stewardship and patient care.

Key Points: Cipla Launches India First Non-Antibiotic UTI Drug HUENA

  • First non-antibiotic UTI treatment launched in India by Cipla
  • Targets bacteria in bladder without antibiotic resistance risk
  • As effective as long-term antibiotic therapy for prevention
  • Women account for 15% of antibiotic prescriptions due to UTIs
2 min read

Cipla launches India's first non-antibiotic drug for recurrent UTI

Cipla introduces HUENA, India's first non-antibiotic treatment for recurrent UTIs, combating antibiotic resistance with effective prevention.

"This groundbreaking launch provides patients with a non-antibiotic drug that will help prevent urinary tract infections without contributing to antimicrobial resistance - Jaideep Gogtay, Cipla"

New Delhi, Sep 5

Cipla on Friday announced the launch of Methenamine Hippurate, a non-antibiotic treatment for patients suffering from recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), under the brand name HUENA.

UTIs are the second-most common reason for antibiotic use in India, with infection cases doubling over the last 30 years.

"Women are more susceptible to UTI, which accounts for 15 per cent of overall antibiotic prescriptions," the company said.

According to the drug maker, Methenamine Hippurate offers an effective, non-antibiotic alternative for preventing UTIs by targeting bacteria in the bladder and urinary tract.

Studies have shown it is as effective as long-term, low-dose antibiotic therapy for UTI prevention, with lower costs and no risk of antibiotic resistance.

"The launch of HUENA reflects our strong commitment to antimicrobial stewardship and addressing the growing challenge of Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR). We believe this innovation will notably improve patient outcomes, while reducing reliance on antibiotics, further contributing to a healthier future for all,” said Achin Gupta, Global Chief Operating Officer, Cipla.

Since Cipla is the first to launch this treatment in India, it represents a major advancement in the battle against AMR.

"At Cipla, we recognise the urgent need for innovative solutions to combat the growing burden of AMR. This groundbreaking launch provides patients with a non-antibiotic drug that will help prevent urinary tract infections without contributing to antimicrobial resistance," said Jaideep Gogtay, Global Chief Medical Officer, Cipla.

Earlier last year, the Indian regulator, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), approved Cipla to distribute and market inhaled insulin in the country exclusively.

MannKind Corporation develops and produces the insulin known as Afrezza, which is used to help adults with diabetes mellitus better control their blood sugar levels.

Unlike existing insulins that are administered as injections, Afrezza is a rapid-acting insulin that is administered via inhalation. According to the company, when taken at the start of a meal, Afrezza dissolves quickly in the lungs when inhaled orally and quickly gets insulin into the bloodstream.

Cipla, a multinational drug maker, have a presence in 74 markets across the world.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Great initiative by Cipla! Antibiotic resistance is becoming a serious problem in India. We need more such innovations to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use.
A
Ananya R
Finally! So many women in my family struggle with UTIs and doctors keep prescribing antibiotics. Hope this is affordable and accessible across India, not just in metro cities.
M
Michael C
Interesting development. Methenamine Hippurate has been available in other countries for years. Good to see Indian pharma companies catching up with global standards in AMR prevention.
S
Siddharth J
Hope the pricing is reasonable. Many innovative drugs become too expensive for common people. Cipla should ensure this reaches the masses who actually need it.
K
Kavya N
As a medical student, I'm thrilled! This addresses both patient care and public health concerns. More Indian pharma companies should invest in such research. 👏

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