What is Imipenem?
Imipenem is a semisynthetic thienamycin that has antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, as well as a number of multiresistant strains. The drug is commonly used in combination with cilastatin. It is used for the treatment of bacterial infections and also known as carbapenem-type-antibiotic. This works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
Imipenem Uses
Imipenem injection is used to treat Endocarditis (infection of the heart lining and valves) and respiratory tract (including pneumonia), urinary tract, abdominal disorder, gynaecological problem, blood, skin, bone, and joint infections are among the severe infections caused by bacteria. Imipenem belongs to a group of antibiotics known as carbapenems. The medication functions by killing bacteria.
Imipenem Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of Imipenem are:
Some of the serious side effects of Imipenem are:
- Hives
- Itching
- Rash
- Difficulty while breathing
- Blisters on the skin
- Sloughing of skin
- Seizures
While a person is under the treatment of this drug they might experience certain side effects that may not be adverse. But if your reactions persist or worsen over time then contact your doctor immediately.
Precautions
Before using Imipenem talk with your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications related to it. The medication may contain some inactive ingredients which will cause serious allergic reactions or other problems. Before using the medication talk with your doctor if you have any medical history such as brain disorders, kidney disease, liver disease, stomach and intestinal diseases.
Live bacterial vaccines (such as the typhoid vaccine) may be affected by this drug. If your doctor advises otherwise, do not get any immunizations or vaccines while taking this drug. The kidneys eliminate this drug. As a result, elderly people may be more susceptible to side effects while taking this medication.
How to use Imipenem?
Imipenem injection comes in the form of powder to be mixed with liquid that should be injected intravenously or intramuscularly. Intravenously administered imipenem is typically infused (slowly injected) over a duration of 20 minutes to 1 hour every 6 to 8 hours. Intramuscular injections of imipenem are administered once in every 12 hours into the thigh muscles. Treatment duration is determined by the type of infection being treated.
Dosage Forms & Strengths
- Imipenem: 250 mg to 500 mg (Powder for injection)
- Lower respiratory tract and Gynecologic infections: Mild to moderate 500-700 mg IV in every 12 hr
- Intra-abdominal infections: Mild to moderate 250 to 500 mg IV in every 6 hr. In case of severe infection 500 mg to 800 mg for every 6 hr atleast for 4-7 days.
- Pseudomonas infections: 500 mg IV in every 6 hr
- Urinary Tract Infections: 250 to 500 mg IV in every 6 hr
Missed Dose
It is important to take this drug exactly as prescribed in order to get the most benefit. If you skip a dose, call your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible to set up a new dosing regimen. To catch up, do not double the dose.
Overdose
An overdose of this drug is unlikely to result in significant side effects. However, ingestion of this medicine may result in injury, necessitating immediate medical attention.
Warnings for some Serious Health Conditions
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Imipenem is classified as a pregnancy category C drug. However, when no other options are available, the advantage of using it could outweigh the risk of not treating a serious infection in a pregnant woman. Infections with resistant gram-negative aerobic species can benefit from the use of meropenem or doripenem instead of imipenem.
The medication can pass into the breastmilk and can cause some serious side effects to the infants. While breastfeeding avoid using any kind of medication and talk with your doctor to avoid any harmful effect.
Storage
Direct contact with heat, air and light may damage your medicines. Exposure to medicine may cause some harmful effects. The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children’s reach.
Mainly the drug should be kept at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
Imipenem vs Meropenem
Imipenem |
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|---|---|
| Imipenem is a semisynthetic thienamycin that has antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, as well as a number of multiresistant strains. | Meropenem injection belongs to the antibiotic class of medications. It kills the bacteria that cause infection. It is also known as Merrem, an intravenous -lactam antibiotic. |
| Imipenem injections are used to treat Endocarditis and respiratory tract (including pneumonia), urinary tract and abdominal disorder. | Meropenem injection is used for treating bacterial skin and abdominal infections, as well as meningitis (infection of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord) in adults. |
Some of the common side effects of Imipenem are:
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Some common side effects of meropenem are:
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