Cipla Rolls Out India’s First Non-Antibiotic Therapy For Recurrent UTIs

Pharmaceutical giant Cipla has launched Methenamine Hippurate under the brand name HUENA, introducing India’s first non-antibiotic therapy for patients suffering from recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Worldwide, urinary tract infections are among the most often reported diseases and in India they stand as a major reason for antibiotic use.

Reported cases have doubled over the past three decades, with women being the most affected.

In fact, experts estimate that urinary tract infections (UTIs) account for nearly 15 per cent of the country’s antibiotic use.

How the Drug Works?

Cipla stated that HUENA represents an alternative to routine antibiotics by preventing infections before they start. It works by changing the urinary environment so bacteria cannot survive. In contrast to antibiotics, it doesn’t trigger resistance.

Evidence from trials indicates Methenamine Hippurate is equally effective as extended antibiotic use, with the added benefit of lower risk and expense.

Cipla’s Chief Operating Officer for global operations, Achin Gupta, remarked that the unveiling underscores the organisation’s significant responsibility in fighting antimicrobial resistance.

“HUENA highlights our pledge to responsible antimicrobial management.” He remarked that the treatment provides both patients and practitioners with an option outside antibiotics, cutting reliance while enhancing overall well-being.

Jaideep Gogtay, Cipla’s Global Chief Medical Officer, called the launch a ‘breakthrough for Indian patients’.

He stressed that sustainable healthcare demands infection management strategies that do not worsen resistance.

Healthcare experts regard the introduction of HUENA as a milestone in India’s fight against antimicrobial resistance, especially as the World Health Organisation has warned that resistance is one of the world’s most urgent health threats.

Last year, Cipla received approval from India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) to market Afrezza, an inhalable insulin developed by MannKind Corporation.

Afrezza offers patients with diabetes an alternative to injections, delivering rapid action when inhaled at mealtimes.

Headquartered in Mumbai, Cipla now operates in 74 global markets and continues to expand its portfolio with treatments targeting long-term and complex health conditions.

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