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(GIST OF SCIENCE REPORTER) NAFITHROMYCIN AND ANTI-MICROBIAL RESISTANCE

(JANUARY-2025)

Science and Technology Union Minister formally launched the first indigenous antibiotic “Nafithromycin” for resistant infections.

The antibiotic Nafithromycin has been developed with the support of Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), a unit of the Department of Biotechnology and has been brought to market under the trade name Miqnaf by pharma company Wolkardt.
It is the country’s first indigenously developed antibiotic aimed at tackling Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).
This innovation is designed to treat Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (CABP).
Nafithromycin’s efficacy stands out as it targets both typical and atypical pathogens, offering a potent solution where no new antibiotic in this class has been developed worldwide for over three decades.
It is ten times more effective than azithromycin and achieves comparable outcomes with just a three-day regimen, as validated by clinical trials.
Beyond its efficacy, Nafithromycin boasts superior safety and tolerability. The antibiotic has minimal gastrointestinal side effects, no significant drug interactions, and remains unaffected by food, making it a versatile option for patients.