Basilea's Zevtera will play unique yet critical role in MRSAB, says analyst

As the first drug to reach the US market for the treatment of Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB) in over 15 years, Swiss drugmaker Basilea Pharmaceutica's (SIX: BSLN) Zevtera (ceftobiprole medocaril), will play a unique and critical role in the future management of this serious, and commonly fatal infection, says pharma analytics company GlobalData, following the drug’s approval last week.

Zevtera's approval is significant as it covers antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) infections, notably those caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The fifth-generation cephalosporin also exhibits antibacterial activity against a wide range of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens, further showcasing its broad clinical utility. This makes Zevtera an attractive empiric monotherapy for infections where MRSA is suspected, but Gram-negative coverage is also warranted.

GlobalData senior pharma analyst Nancy Jaser said: “Given the alarming lack of therapeutic options for MRSA in deadly infections such as SAB (MRSAB), Zevtera should be strictly reserved for serious multi-drug resistant cases that cannot be successfully treated with current therapies. This limitation will be critical for minimizing treatment-emergent resistance to Zevtera and maintaining its efficacy.”