3. Carbapenems: Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics for Serious Infections

What is the primary action of Carbapenems?

They have the broadest antibacterial action and are bactericidal.

For what types of infections are Carbapenems often reserved?

Complicated body cavity and body tissue infections.

Name three examples of Carbapenem antibiotics.

1. Imipenem+cilastatin (Tienam)

2. Ertapenem (Invanz)

3. Meropenem (Merrem IV)

Carbapenem is ___ but very resistant to antibiotic-inhibiting actions of __ ___ ___

bactericidal; cell membrane synthesis

What types of bacteria do Carbapenems target?

They target both Gram positive and negative bacteria, including aerobic bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

FAMILIARIZE
Indications of Carbapenem:

• Gram positive and negative aerobic bacteria including aeruginosa infections of the bone, joint. skin, soft tissue

• Endocarditis Pneumonia

• UTI

• intra abdominal and pelvic infections

• septicaemia

Familiarized yet?

Carbapenem contains this so carbapenem is contraindicated to patients allergic to this

Lidocaine

What medications can potentiate the adverse reactions of Carbapenems?

1. Cyclosporine

2. Fanciclovir

3. Probenecid

What is the risk of seizures associated with Carbapenems?

500 mg every 6 hours - 1.5% chance

Elderly and renally impaired - 10%

What should be avoided in combination with Carbapenems due to seizure risk?

Valproic Acid.

How are Carbapenems absorbed and excreted?

They are rapidly absorbed if given IM, reach peak levels at the end of IV infusion, and are excreted unchanged in the urine.