CDC data show that antibacterial resistance has been increasing dramatically over the past few decades, where it is most pronounced in the hospital setting, where heavy use of antibiotics creates an ideal environment for the development of drug resistance. Approximately 70% of nosocomial, or hospital-based, infections are now resistant to at least one antibiotic.
Historically, the pharmaceutical industry was able to keep pace with the need for new antibacterial drugs. However, since 1968, only two new classes of antibacterials have been brought to market, and unfortunately, these treatments face one or more of the following limitations: limited potency, lack of a bactericidal (bacteria-killing) mechanism of action, narrow spectrum of activity, the need for intravenous or injectable administration and adverse side effects.
Achillion has identified ACH-702, an internally discovered compound, for the treatment of serious nosocomial bacterial infections. ACH-702 has a novel target profile against bacterial DNA replication enzymes and potent broad-spectrum bactericidal activity, characteristics that indicate it may play an important role in the fight against drug-resistant bacteria.
Introduction to Bacteria and Serious Hospital Infections
Bacteria can be broadly classified into two categories based upon the composition of their cell walls: Gram-positive or Gram-negative. Antibacterial drugs that are active against a large number of both classes of bacteria are often referred to as "broad-spectrum" anti bacterials or antibiotics. more
Market Challenges
CDC data show that antibacterial resistance has been increasing dramatically over the past few decades, where it is most pronounced in the hospital setting. Since 1968, only two new classes of antibacterials have been brought to market, and unfortunately, these treatments face limitations. more
Current Market Opportunity
Achillion has developed ACH-702, an internally discovered compound, for the treatment of serious nosocomial bacterial infections. ACH-702 has a novel target profile against bacterial DNA replication enzymes and potent broad-spectrum bactericidal activity, characteristics that indicate it may play an important role in the fight against drug-resistant bacteria. more
ACH-702 Program Fact Sheet
Click here to access a printer-ready detailed Fact Sheet on Achillion's ACH-702 Program.
