Imipenem is a semisynthetic thienamycin with antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, including several multiresistant strains.
It is commonly used in combination with cilastatin for the treatment of bacterial infections. Imipenem is known as a carbapenem-type antibiotic, which works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
Imipenem Injection Uses
Commonly Used For
Severe or complicated bacterial infections
Infections resistant to other antibiotics
Hospital-acquired infections
Key Benefits:
Broad-spectrum coverage against Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and anaerobic bacteria
Effective in treating multi-drug resistant bacterial infections
Fast-acting and suitable for life-threatening conditions
What Conditions Does Imipenem Injection Used For?
Endocarditis (infection of the heart lining and valves)
Patients with allergy to beta-lactams (penicillins, cephalosporins, other carbapenems)
Those with a history of seizure disorders, unless under close monitoring
Before using Imipenem, talk to your doctor if you:
Are allergic to it or any related medications
Have a medical history of brain disorders, kidney disease, liver disease, or stomach and intestinal diseases
Avoid live bacterial vaccines (such as the typhoid vaccine) while taking this drug. The kidneys eliminate this drug, so elderly people may be more susceptible to side effects.
Warnings for Serious Health Conditions
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
Classified as a pregnancy category C drug.
Use only when necessary and under doctor supervision.
May pass into breastmilk; avoid use while breastfeeding.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Imipenem?
Safe for adults and children over 3 months, under medical supervision.
Dosing in infants and children must be carefully calculated by weight.
Alcohol or Food Interactions
No direct interaction with food or alcohol
However, alcohol is best avoided in cases of serious infection or when on multiple antibiotics
Possible Interactions with Other Medications
May Interact With
Valproic acid (reduced effectiveness, risk of seizures)
Ganciclovir (may increase seizure risk)
Cyclosporine or other nephrotoxic drugs (increased kidney risk)
Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements.
How to Use Imipenem
Imipenem injection comes in powder form to be mixed with liquid for intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) injection.
Intravenous (IV) Use:
Infused over 20 minutes to 1 hour every 6 to 8 hours
Intramuscular (IM) Use:
Injected into thigh muscles every 12 hours
Treatment duration depends on the infection type.
How Should Imipenem Be Stored?
Recommended Storage:
Reconstituted solution should be used immediately or stored as per label instructions
Dry powder should be kept at controlled room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F)
Keep out of reach of children and avoid freezing the reconstituted solution.
What Happens If Not Stored Properly?
The drug may degrade or lose potency
Improperly stored solutions may become ineffective or unsafe
Imipenem vs Meropenem
Imipenem
Meropenem
Semisynthetic thienamycin with activity against various bacteria
Intravenous β lactam antibiotic
Used for treating endocarditis, respiratory, urinary tract, and abdominal infections
Used for treating bacterial skin and abdominal infections, meningitis in adults
Common Side Effects: Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Headache
Common Side Effects: Headache, Diarrhea, Constipation, Nausea, Vomiting, Pain
It is a beta-lactam antibiotic that belongs to the carbapenem family. The drug is effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterococcus faecalis. It kills bacteria by interfering with cell wall synthesis.
Antibiotic-resistant hospital-acquired infections are treated with imipenem-cilastatin, a broad-spectrum antibiotic. In 1.5-10% of patients, imipenem has been confirmed to cause CNS toxicity, including seizures.
Imipenem, a carbapenem, does not have bactericidal activity against MRSA, but it has a wide antibacterial range that includes both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and is more bactericidal than other beta-lactams.
Yes, Imipenem is often reserved for treating infections caused by resistant bacteria that don't respond to other antibiotics.
Yes, Imipenem may be combined with other antibiotics depending on the type and severity of the infection being treated.
Yes, patients with kidney impairment may require a lower dose or extended dosing interval to prevent drug accumulation.
Many patients begin to feel better within 24–48 hours of starting treatment, but the full course must be completed to prevent recurrence.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.
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