Iterum Therapeutics has achieved a significant milestone with the FDA approval of ORLYNVAH™ (oral sulopenem) for treating uncomplicated urinary tract infections (uUTIs), marking a breakthrough in antimicrobial therapy. This approval represents the first new branded treatment for uUTIs to reach the U.S. market in more than two decades.
Novel Antibiotic Profile and Clinical Significance
ORLYNVAH™ stands out as the first and only oral penem antibiotic approved for use in the United States. The drug demonstrates potent activity against various gram-negative, gram-positive, and anaerobic bacteria, including those resistant to other antibiotics. Specifically, it targets infections caused by designated microorganisms Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus mirabilis in adult women with limited or no alternative oral antibacterial treatment options.
The medication's unique profile includes effectiveness against bacteria that produce extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) or AmpC-type beta-lactamases, which typically confer resistance to third-generation cephalosporins. This capability addresses a critical gap in current treatment options for resistant infections.
Commercialization Strategy and Financial Position
"While outreach to potential strategic partners is our priority and ongoing, we have begun pre-commercialization work to ensure ORLYNVAH™ is made available to patients as soon as possible," stated Corey Fishman, Iterum's Chief Executive Officer. The company is actively pursuing strategic partnerships while maintaining the flexibility to proceed with commercialization plans.
As of December 31, 2024, Iterum reported cash and cash equivalents of $24.1 million. The company's financial strategy includes recent fundraising through its at-the-market offering program, which generated $4.8 million in net proceeds in early 2025. This financial position is expected to support operations into the second half of 2025, accounting for planned pre-commercialization activities.
Patent Protection and Future Prospects
The company's intellectual property position has been strengthened by a Notice of Allowance from the Australian Patent Office for patent application number 2019281018. This patent, set to expire in June 2039, covers the use of sulopenem etzadroxil and probenecid combination in treating multiple diseases, including uncomplicated urinary tract infections.
Financial Performance
For the full year 2024, Iterum reported a net loss of $24.8 million, showing improvement from the $38.4 million loss in 2023. Research and development expenses decreased significantly to $10.5 million in 2024 from $40.0 million in 2023, primarily due to reduced clinical trial costs associated with the REASSURE trial.
The company's general and administrative expenses increased modestly to $8.0 million in 2024 from $7.5 million in 2023, reflecting increased legal fees and consulting services supporting pre-commercial activities.
