Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common among women, with up to 60% experiencing one during their lifetime. Post-menopausal women are particularly susceptible due to lower estrogen levels, which can lead to a decrease in beneficial bacteria that fight infection-causing bacteria.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Blujepa, the first new antibiotic for UTIs in 30 years. This medication targets E. coli bacteria, responsible for most uncomplicated UTIs affecting women. Unlike existing antibiotics, Blujepa works by interfering with a unique process used by E. coli to replicate and produce more bacteria.
In clinical trials, Blujepa was shown to be as effective or slightly better than the commonly prescribed antibiotic nitrofurantoin. The medication successfully treated 50% and 58% of women in two studies, compared to nitrofurantoin’s success rates of 43% and 47%.
GSK is also exploring Blujepa for other E. coli infections, including gonorrhea, and is working on another antibiotic to treat complicated UTIs that require hospitalization. This new drug could potentially reduce the need for hospital stays or reduce treatment duration.
Blujepa’s unique mechanism makes it harder for bacteria to develop resistance, which is a common issue with existing antibiotics. With this approval, women can now have a new option for treating UTIs and reducing the risk of complications from these infections.
Source: https://time.com/7271483/new-uti-treatment-antibiotic