Blujepa (gepotidacin) Approved by US FDA for Treatment of Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections (uUTIs) in Female Adults and Pediatric Patients 12 Years of Age and Older

Rhea-AI Summary

GSK has received FDA approval for Blujepa (gepotidacin), the first new class of oral antibiotics for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (uUTIs) in nearly 30 years. The drug is approved for female adults and pediatric patients 12 years and older weighing ≥40 kg.

The approval is based on the EAGLE-2 and EAGLE-3 phase III trials, which demonstrated non-inferiority to nitrofurantoin. EAGLE-2 showed 50.6% therapeutic success for Blujepa versus 47.0% for nitrofurantoin, while EAGLE-3 demonstrated superior efficacy with 58.5% success compared to 43.6% for nitrofurantoin.

uUTIs affect up to 16 million women annually in the US, with approximately 30% experiencing recurrent episodes. The most common side effects were gastrointestinal, with diarrhea (16%) and nausea (9%) being the most frequent. Commercial launch is planned for second half of 2025.

Positive

• First new class of oral antibiotics for uUTIs in 30 years, addressing rising antibiotic resistance
• Demonstrated superior efficacy in EAGLE-3 trial compared to current standard treatment
• Addresses large market with 16 million annual US cases
• Novel mechanism of action expanding treatment options

Negative

• Commercial launch delayed until 2H 2025
• Significant side effects with 16% experiencing diarrhea and 9% nausea
• Moderate efficacy rate of 50.6-58.5% in clinical trials

Insights

Pharmaceutical Industry Analyst

GSK's FDA approval for Blujepa (gepotidacin) represents a significant innovation milestone in the antibiotics space. Being the first new class of oral antibiotics for uUTIs in nearly 30 years, this approval strengthens GSK's infectious disease portfolio and demonstrates the company's R&D capabilities in addressing antimicrobial resistance challenges.

The market opportunity is substantial - with up to 16 million women affected annually in the US alone and approximately 30% experiencing recurrent infections. This persistent demand combined with increasing resistance to existing treatments creates favorable commercial conditions for Blujepa.

The superior efficacy demonstrated in the EAGLE-3 trial versus nitrofurantoin (a standard treatment) is particularly noteworthy, with therapeutic success of 58.5% versus 43.6% for the comparator. The safety profile appears manageable with primarily mild to moderate gastrointestinal effects.

While revenue impact won't materialize immediately due to the 2H 2025 launch timeline, Blujepa addresses a clear unmet need and likely represents a meaningful addition to GSK's commercial portfolio. The partial government funding from BARDA potentially improved the R&D return on investment, reflecting the public health significance of this innovation and helping to offset development costs.

Infectious Disease Specialist

The approval of Blujepa addresses a critical gap in antimicrobial therapy. With rising antibiotic resistance rates, having a novel mechanism of action provides clinicians with an important new option for a highly prevalent condition affecting millions of women annually.

The clinical data is compelling - particularly the EAGLE-3 results showing statistically significant superiority over nitrofurantoin, with a 14.6% adjusted treatment difference. This suggests Blujepa may offer improved outcomes for patients who previously had options due to resistance patterns or recurrent infections.

The side effect profile appears consistent with many antibiotics, with primarily gastrointestinal effects that were predominantly mild (69%) or moderate (28%). The low rate of serious adverse events (1 related case across two large trials) suggests a favorable benefit-risk ratio.

From a public health perspective, this approval is significant as antibiotic innovation has lagged in recent decades despite growing resistance concerns. The broad coverage against common uropathogens including E. coli, K. pneumoniae, and other key organisms positions Blujepa as a valuable addition to the antimicrobial armamentarium for a condition that significantly impacts quality of life and creates substantial healthcare burden.

• Blujepa is the first in a new class of oral antibiotics for uUTIs in nearly 30 years
• Over half of all women experience a uUTI in their lifetime, with approximately 30% suffering from a recurrent episode
• Approval based on data from the pivotal phase III EAGLE-2 and EAGLE-3 trials

PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- GSK plc (LSE/NYSE: GSK) today announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Blujepa (gepotidacin) for the treatment of female adults (≥40 kg) and pediatric patients (≥12 years, ≥40 kg) with uncomplicated urinary tract infections (uUTIs) caused by the following susceptible microorganisms: Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Citrobacter freundii complex, Staphylococcus saprophyticus and Enterococcus faecalis.

Discovered by GSK scientists, Blujepa is a first-in-class oral antibiotic with a novel mechanism of action that is part of GSK’s infectious diseases portfolio.

Tony Wood, Chief Scientific Officer, GSK, said: “The approval of Blujepa is a crucial milestone with uUTIs among the most common infections in women. We are proud to have developed Blujepa, the first in a new class of oral antibiotics for uUTIs in nearly three decades, and to bring another option to patients given recurrent infections and rising rates of resistance to existing treatments.”

uUTIs are the most common infection in women, impacting up to 16 million women in the US annually.^1-4 Over half of all women are affected by uUTI in their lifetime,⁵ with approximately 30% suffering from at least one recurrent episode which can cause significant patient burden, including discomfort and restriction of daily activities.⁶ New treatments are needed as the number of uUTIs caused by drug-resistant bacteria is increasing which can result in higher treatment failure rates.⁷

Thomas Hooton, MD, Professor of Clinical Medicine, University of Miami School of Medicine said: “For many, uUTIs can be a burden that severely impacts daily life. With an increasing number of patients experiencing recurrent infections, there remains a clear need for continued research of antimicrobials to help address ongoing patient challenges and the strain on healthcare systems.”

The approval is based on positive results from the pivotal phase III EAGLE-2 and EAGLE-3 trials which demonstrated non-inferiority to nitrofurantoin, one of the leading current standard of care options for uUTI, in female adults (≥40 kg) and pediatric patients (≥12 years, ≥40 kg) with a confirmed uUTI. In EAGLE-2, Blujepa demonstrated non-inferiority in therapeutic success which occurred in 50.6% (162/320) of participants compared to 47.0% (135/287) for nitrofurantoin (covariate-adjusted treatment difference 4.3%, 95% CI (-3.6, 12.1)). In EAGLE-3, Blujepa demonstrated statistically significant superiority versus nitrofurantoin (one-sided p-value 0.0003). Therapeutic success occurred in 58.5% (162/277) of participants compared to 43.6% (115/264) for nitrofurantoin (covariate-adjusted treatment difference 14.6%, 95% CI (6.4, 22.8)).

The safety and tolerability profile of Blujepa in the EAGLE-2 and EAGLE-3 phase III trials was consistent with previous trials. The most commonly reported adverse events (AEs) in Blujepa participants were gastrointestinal (GI). Diarrhea was the most common (16% of participants), followed by nausea (9%). Of the participants who reported GI AEs in the Blujepa group, the most common maximum severity was mild (69% Grade 1) and moderate (28% Grade 2). Participants with Grade 3 GI events accounted for 3% of all patients with GI events and occurred in <1% of all participants. There was one drug-related serious adverse event in each treatment arm (Blujepa and nitrofurantoin) across the two trials.

US commercial launch is planned in 2H 2025.

The development of Blujepa (gepotidacin) has been funded in part with federal funds from the US Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response, Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), under Other Transaction Agreement number HHSO100201300011C and with federal funds awarded by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency under agreement number HDTRA1-07-9-0002.

About Blujepa (gepotidacin)
Blujepa, discovered by GSK scientists, is a bactericidal, first-in-class triazaacenaphthylene antibiotic that inhibits bacterial DNA replication by a distinct binding site, a novel mechanism of action and for most pathogens, provides well-balanced inhibition of two different Type II topoisomerase enzymes. This provides activity against most target uropathogens (such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus saprophyticus), and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, including isolates resistant to current antibiotics. Due to the well-balanced inhibition for most pathogens, Blujepa target-specific mutations in both enzymes are needed to significantly affect susceptibility to Blujepa. Therefore, a lower potential for resistance development is expected. Efficacy and safety in patients have been demonstrated in uUTI and gonorrhea phase III clinical trials, including in patients with drug-resistant pathogens. Please see full Prescribing Information including Medication Guide, available here.

About the EAGLE (Efficacy of Antibacterial Gepotidacin Evaluated) phase III program
The global phase III clinical program for Blujepa (gepotidacin) in adults and pediatric patients consists of three trials:

EAGLE-2 and EAGLE-3 (non-inferiority uUTI trials) compared the efficacy and safety of Blujepa (1,500mg administered orally twice daily for five days) to nitrofurantoin (100mg administered orally twice daily for five days) with 1531 and 1605 female adults and pediatric patients with uUTIs, respectively. Across both trials, the planned duration of follow-up for participants was approximately 28 days, and the primary endpoint, a stringent composite measure of efficacy, was the combined clinical and microbiological response at the Test-of-Cure (ToC) visit (days 10-13) in patients with qualifying uropathogens susceptible to nitrofurantoin.

EAGLE-1 (non-inferiority uncomplicated urogenital gonorrhea trial) compared the efficacy and safety of Blujepa to ceftriaxone plus azithromycin in 628 patients with uncomplicated urogenital gonorrhea caused by N. gonorrhoeae.

GSK in infectious diseases
GSK has pioneered innovation in infectious diseases for over 70 years, and the Company’s pipeline of medicines and vaccines is one of the largest and most diverse in the industry, with a goal of developing preventive and therapeutic treatments for multiple disease areas or diseases with high unmet needs globally. Our expertise and capabilities in infectious disease strongly position us to help prevent disease and mitigate the challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

In antimicrobials, in addition to gepotidacin, GSK entered into an exclusive license agreement with Spero Therapeutics, Inc. in September 2022 to add tebipenem HBr, a late-stage antibiotic and potential treatment for complicated urinary tract infections (cUTIs), to the pipeline and are currently enrolling for PIVOT-PO, a phase III trial. In March 2023, GSK announced an exclusive license agreement with Scynexis for Brexafemme (ibrexafungerp tablets), a first-in-class antifungal for the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) and reduction in the incidence of recurrent VVC.

BLUJEPA (gepotidacin) tablets, for oral use

Indication(s) and Important Safety Information (ISI)

INDICATION

BLUJEPA is indicated for the treatment of female adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older weighing at least 40 kilograms (kg) with uncomplicated urinary tract infections (uUTI) caused by the following susceptible microorganisms: Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Citrobacter freundii complex, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, and Enterococcus faecalis.

Usage to Reduce Development of Drug-Resistant Bacteria

To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of BLUJEPA and other antibacterial drugs, BLUJEPA should be used only to treat infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

CONTRAINDICATIONS

BLUJEPA is contraindicated in patients with a history of severe hypersensitivity to BLUJEPA

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

QTc Prolongation

A dose and concentration-dependent prolongation of the QTc interval has been observed with BLUJEPA. Avoid use of BLUJEPA in patients with a history of QTc prolongation or with relevant pre-existing cardiac disease, patients taking antiarrhythmic agents, and in patients receiving drugs that prolong the QT interval. Due to an increase in BLUJEPA exposure, avoid concomitant administration of BLUJEPA with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C), and in patients with severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] < 30 mL/min)

Acetylcholinesterase inhibition

Dysarthria and other adverse reactions potentially attributed to acetylcholinesterase inhibition have been reported with BLUJEPA, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. Increased cholinergic effects can be associated with severe adverse effects including atrioventricular block, bradycardia, bronchospasm, seizures/convulsions, and vasovagal syncope. Monitor patients with underlying medical conditions that may be exacerbated by acetylcholinesterase inhibition and patients receiving succinylcholine-type neuromuscular blocking agents, systemic anticholinergic medications, or non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported in patients receiving BLUJEPA. If an allergic reaction to BLUJEPA occurs, discontinue the drug and institute appropriate supportive measures.

Clostridioides difficile-Associated Diarrhea

Clostridioides difficile Infection (CDI) has been reported with nearly all systemic antibacterial agents, including BLUJEPA. Evaluate patients who develop diarrhea

ADVERSE REACTIONS

The most common adverse reactions occurring in ≥1% of patients are diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, flatulence, headache, soft feces, dizziness, vomiting, and vulvovaginal candidiasis

DRUG INTERACTIONS

CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Avoid coadministration of BLUJEPA with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors due to increased gepotidacin exposure

CYP3A4 Inducers: Avoid coadministration of BLUJEPA with strong CYP3A4 inducers due to decreased gepotidacin exposure

CYP3A4 Substrates: Avoid coadministration of BLUJEPA with drugs that are extensively metabolized by CYP3A4 and have a narrow therapeutic window

Digoxin: Due to an increase in digoxin exposures, consider monitoring digoxin serum concentration, as appropriate, with concomitant administration of BLUJEPA

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

Renal Impairment: Avoid use of BLUJEPA in patients with severe renal impairment with eGFR <30 ml/min, including those receiving dialysis

Hepatic Impairment: Avoid use of BLUJEPA in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C)

About GSK
GSK is a global biopharma company with a purpose to unite science, technology, and talent to get ahead of disease together. Find out more at gsk.com.

Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements
GSK cautions investors that any forward-looking statements or projections made by GSK, including those made in this announcement, are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Such factors include, but are not limited to, those described in the “Risk Factors” section in GSK’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for 2024.

Registered in England & Wales:
No. 3888792

Registered Office:
79 New Oxford Street
London
WC1A 1DG

References

______________________________

¹ Advani SD, et al. Poster presented at: ISPOR 2024; May 5-8, 2024. Presentation EPH17.
² Foxman B, et al. Urinary tract infection: self-reported incidence and associated costs. Ann Epidemiol. 2000;10(8):509-15.
³ Foxman B. Urinary Tract Infection Syndromes: Occurrence, Recurrence, Bacteriology, Risk Factors, and Disease Burden. Infect Dis Clin North Am. 2014 28(1):1-13.
⁴ United States Census Bureau. Age and Sex Composition: 2020. [Available from: https://www2.census.gov/library/publications/decennial/2020/census-briefs/c2020br-06.pdf Last accessed March 2025].
⁵ Czajkowski, K, et al. Urinary tract infection in women. Prz Menopauzalny. 2021;20(1):40-7.
⁶ Little P, et al. Presentation, pattern, and natural course of severe symptoms, and role of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance among patients presenting with suspected uncomplicated urinary tract infection in primary care: observational study. BMJ. 2010;340:b5633.
⁷ Kaye KS, et al. Antimicrobial resistance trends in urine Escherichia coli isolates from adult and adolescent females in the United States from 2011 to 2019: rising ESBL strains and impact on patient management. Clin Infect Dis 2021;73:1992–1999.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250324880635/en/

GSK inquires

Media:

Tim Foley +44 (0) 20 8047 5502 (London)

Sarah Clements +44 (0) 20 8047 5502 (London)

Kathleen Quinn +1 202 603 5003 (Washington DC)

Lyndsay Meyer +1 202 302 4595 (Washington DC)

Investor Relations:

Constantin Fest +44 (0) 7831 826525 (London)

Annabel Brownrigg-Gleeson +44 (0) 7901 101944 (London)

James Dodwell +44 (0) 20 8047 2406 (London)

Mick Readey +44 (0) 7990 339653 (London)

Steph Mountifield +44 (0) 7796 707505 (London)

Jeff McLaughlin +1 215 751 7002 (Philadelphia)

Frannie DeFranco +1 215 751 4855 (Philadelphia)

Source: GSK plc

FAQ

What is the efficacy rate of GSK's Blujepa in treating uUTIs compared to existing treatments?

In the EAGLE-3 trial, Blujepa showed 58.5% therapeutic success compared to 43.6% for nitrofurantoin, demonstrating statistical superiority.

When will GSK's Blujepa be available commercially for uUTI treatment?

GSK plans to launch Blujepa commercially in the second half of 2025.

What are the main side effects reported in GSK's Blujepa clinical trials?

The most common side effects were gastrointestinal, with diarrhea affecting 16% of patients and nausea affecting 9%.

What patient population is GSK's Blujepa approved for in treating uUTIs?

Blujepa is approved for female adults and pediatric patients 12 years and older weighing ≥40 kg with uncomplicated urinary tract infections.

How significant is the market need for GSK's Blujepa in treating uUTIs?

uUTIs affect up to 16 million women annually in the US, with over 50% of women experiencing a uUTI in their lifetime and 30% having recurrent episodes.