The Zydus Cadila has received the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) for ZyCoV-D the world’s first Plasmid DNA Vaccine for COVID-19. It is a three-dose vaccine which will be administered first on day zero, day 28th and then on 56th day. With this approval, India now has its first COVID-19 vaccine for adolescents in the 12-18 age group, besides adults. ZyCoV-D is a needle-free vaccine administered using The PharmaJet® a needle free applicator, which ensures painless intradermal vaccine delivery.
Speaking on this development, Pankaj R Patel, Chairman, Cadila Healthcare Ltd, said: “This is a historic milestone. We are particularly happy that our vaccine will contribute to this fight against COVID-19 and enable the country to vaccinate a larger population especially in the age group of 12-18 years. I would like to thank all the researchers, clinical trial investigators, volunteers and the regulators who have supported this endeavour.”
The company also plans to seek approval for the two dose regimen of the vaccine.