Zai Lab Ltd Partners with Pfizer to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance in China with XACDURO®

Zai Lab and Pfizer Forge Strategic Alliance to Tackle Antimicrobial Resistance

Zai Lab Ltd has announced a strategic collaboration with Pfizer to commercialize XACDURO® (sulbactam-durlobactam) in mainland China, solidifying its commitment to combatting antimicrobial resistance. This innovative antibacterial drug is uniquely designed to fight carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB), a pathogen that poses a severe health threat globally and has been particularly problematic in China. With Pfizer taking the lead in specific commercialization activities until November 2028, this partnership is poised to enhance the availability of effective treatments for patients suffering from hospital-acquired and ventilator-associated bacterial pneumonia caused by this dangerous strain.

The urgency of this collaboration is underscored by alarming statistics regarding carbapenem-resistant infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have both recognized CRAB as a significant public health concern. In China, the resistance rate to carbapenem antibiotics in Acinetobacter baumannii has reached approximately 74%, making it the leading cause of death from antimicrobial resistance-related infections in the country. In 2019 alone, there were around 300,000 reported isolates, highlighting the critical need for effective treatment options. By facilitating access to XACDURO®, Zai Lab aims to address this urgent healthcare crisis and provide much-needed support to healthcare providers battling CRAB.

Josh Smiley, President and COO of Zai Lab, emphasizes the company's dedication to expediting the availability of XACDURO® to patients. He notes that the collaboration with Pfizer represents a significant step forward in expanding therapeutic options for patients suffering from infections that currently lack gold-standard alternatives. The introduction of XACDURO® into the Chinese market is expected to not only improve clinical outcomes but also contribute to the broader fight against antimicrobial resistance, which threatens the effectiveness of existing antibiotics and jeopardizes patient care.

In addition to their collaboration on XACDURO®, Zai Lab continues to explore opportunities to expand its portfolio of innovative therapies. The company remains focused on addressing unmet medical needs in oncology and infectious diseases, striving to improve patient outcomes through the development and commercialization of groundbreaking treatments. As antibiotic resistance becomes an increasingly critical issue, Zai Lab's initiatives align with global health priorities aimed at enhancing patient care and safeguarding public health.

As Zai Lab and Pfizer work together, their efforts could play a pivotal role in reshaping the landscape of antimicrobial treatment in China, offering hope to patients and healthcare providers grappling with the challenges posed by resistant infections.