Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Oct 6: In a major stride for India’s pharmaceuticals and public health, Wockhardt has developed Zaynich, a novel antibiotic aimed at combating multi-drug resistant Gram-negative bacteria. This marks India’s first significant antibiotic innovation in nearly three decades, amid the growing global crisis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Zaynich combines cefepime, a broad-spectrum cephalosporin antibiotic, with zidebactam, a beta-lactamase inhibitor and enhancer, offering a dual mechanism of action. While cefepime attacks bacterial cell walls, zidebactam blocks resistance enzymes and strengthens the antibiotic’s binding to bacterial targets. This synergy allows Zaynich to overcome defenses that render many conventional antibiotics ineffective, reportedly improving treatment success by about 20% over existing therapies.

Gram-negative bacteria such as E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter are particularly hard to treat due to their resistance mechanisms. India’s high infection rates and extensive antibiotic use make homegrown solutions like Zaynich strategically vital, not only domestically but globally.

Experts caution that Zaynich must undergo rigorous clinical trials to confirm safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics. Its integration into treatment protocols, affordability, large-scale manufacturing, and careful stewardship will be critical for its success. Even with these advancements, ongoing monitoring is essential, as bacteria may eventually develop new resistance mechanisms.

If validated and widely adopted, Zaynich could be a game-changer in treating resistant infections, offering hope to patients in India and around the world. Wockhardt’s development underscores India’s growing role in the global fight against antibiotic resistance.