ZyCoV-D

ZyCoV-D is a plasmid DNA COVID-19 vaccine developed by Cadila Healthcare, later known as Zydus Cadila and now Zydus Lifesciences, an Indian multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Ahmedabad. It was approved for emergency use in India in August 2021, making it the world's first DNA plasmid-based vaccine for COVID-19.

The vaccine is administered intradermally using a needle-free applicator called PharmaJet, which delivers the vaccine directly into the skin. It is typically given in a three-dose schedule, administered 28 days apart.

ZyCoV-D works by introducing a DNA plasmid containing the genetic code for the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus into the body. This plasmid enters the cells of the recipient, where it instructs the cells to produce the spike protein. The body then recognizes this protein as foreign and mounts an immune response, producing antibodies and T cells that can protect against future infection with the virus.

Key features of ZyCoV-D include:

• DNA Plasmid-Based: It utilizes a different technology from mRNA or viral vector vaccines.
• Needle-Free Administration: The use of a needle-free applicator aims to improve comfort and reduce the risk of needle-stick injuries.
• Three-Dose Regimen: The recommended schedule involves three doses.
• Storage Requirements: It can be stored at temperatures of 2–8 °C (36–46 °F).

While initially approved for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and above, its use and availability have been subject to change based on regulatory decisions and evolving pandemic conditions. Further research and real-world effectiveness data continue to be gathered and analyzed to refine its role in COVID-19 vaccination strategies.