New Delhi: Strides Arcolab has received US-FDA approval for Vancomycin hydrochloride antibiotic capsules, used to treat bacterial infections. Shares of the company rose slightly over 6 per cent to close at Rs 631.90 following the announcement.

Vancomycin antibiotic capsules are used in the prophylaxis and treatment of infections caused by gram-positive bacteria. The drug has traditionally been reserved as a ‘last resort' remedy, used only after treatment with other antibiotics fails.

Mr Arun Kumar, Group CEO of Strides, in a statement, said: “Oral Vancomycin development is one among the many generics programmes being undertaken at the Strides group, with a special focus to develop niche and difficult to manufacture products.”

The product will be launched immediately through Alvogen, a US-based privately-owned pharmaceuticals company, on a profit share basis.

According to IMS health data, Vancomycin capsules had total US sales of $332 million for the 12 months ending February 2012, with no prior generic approvals.