Wockhardt is on the verge of launching Nafithromycin 400mg in India, a new oral treatment for pneumonia, after submitting positive Phase 3 clinical trial data to the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). The company anticipates approval within weeks and aims to launch the drug in early January. This development addresses a critical healthcare need, as India records approximately 18 million pneumonia cases each year.
Habil Khorakiwala, Chairman of Wockhardt, emphasized the drug's potential impact, stating that the domestic market for Nafithromycin could reach ₹400-500 crore within three to five years. The Phase 3 trials followed earlier Phase 1 and Phase 2 trials conducted in the US and Europe.
The CDSCO's subject expert committee has already recommended Nafithromycin for pneumonia treatment, signaling a positive outlook for its approval. Globally, pneumonia remains a major health challenge, causing approximately 2.3 million deaths annually, with nearly 600,000 occurring in India alone.
Clinical Efficacy and Treatment Duration
Nafithromycin offers a significant advantage with its ultra-short treatment duration, requiring only three days of oral therapy. Clinical trials have demonstrated a 97% success rate. This short duration could improve patient compliance and reduce the overall burden on healthcare systems.
Global Expansion Plans
Beyond India, Wockhardt is also targeting international markets. Saudi Arabia has already recognized Nafithromycin as a breakthrough medicine, and the company plans to seek approval there within the next six to nine months following Indian approval. While the U.S. market is not an immediate focus, Wockhardt is optimistic about pursuing approvals in other emerging markets within the next year.
