Merck Sharp and Dohme launches antibiotic Zerbaxa in UK

Merck Sharp and Dohme has announced the UK launch of Zerbaxa, a new ceftolozane/tazobactam intravenous antibiotic product.

The new antibiotic is designed for the treatment of complicated intra-abdominal infections, acute pyelonephritis and complicated urinary tract infections in hospital settings. It is administered every eight hours, with treatment usually lasting four to 14 days.

Zerbaxa represents an alternative to carbapenems, the current standard of care, which have been linked to the emergence of carbapenem-resistant bacteria contributing to global antimicrobial resistance.

Two pivotal phase III clinical trials have demonstrated the non-inferiority of the new antibiotic to an established comparator.

Mike Nally, managing director of Merck Sharp and Dohme for the UK and Ireland, said the company "continues to advocate for improvements in regulatory guidance and financial incentives to support and accelerate innovation in the development of new antimicrobials, services and solutions".

The company acquire the rights to Zerbaxa as part of its $9.5 billion (6.28 billion pounds) acquisition of Cubist Pharmaceuticals earlier this year.