Zuventus first in world to launch aviptadil for ARDS commercially

Discovered in 1970, the drug was tested on severe Covid-19 patients on DCGI's direction

Mumbai-based Zuventus Healthcare has become the first company globally to commercially launch aviptadil, over 50-year old drug molecule, for treating acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

The drug was discovered by Dr Sami Said, pulmonary medicine specialist, in 1970. Aviptadil -- a complex peptide -- was not commercially used for ARDS, though prescribed as a last resort (orphan drug); it is prepared by Universities for emergency use by hospitals, the company said.

The use of aviptadil (a vasoactive intestinal peptide) restores respiration and reduces mortality in patients with ARDS. “Aviptadil is safe and effective in tackling respiratory failure, shortens recovery time,