Carbapenems

Question 1

Carbapanems

Answer 1

• Broadest spectrum
• G+ and G- anaerobes
• Reserved for resistant infections

Question 2

General uses of Carbapanems

Answer 2

1. UTI
2. Bone, joint and skin infections
3. Lower respiratory tract infection
4. Intra-abdominal and gynecological infections

Question 3

Most concerning side effect Carbapanems

Answer 3

Increased risk of seizures

Question 4

Imipenem + Cilastatin

Answer 4

• Carbapanem
• Cilastatin inhibits a dehydropeptidase that normally metabolizes imipenem (→ increased levels of imipenem and prevents generation of nephrotoxic metabolite)
• Imipenem resists most β-lactamases
• Side effects: nausea, vomitting, increased risk of C. diff infection

Question 5

Meropenem

Answer 5

• Carbapanem

* Lower risk of seizures

Question 6

Ertapenem

Answer 6

• Carbapanem

* Once a day dosing

Question 7

Doripenem

Answer 7

• Carbapanem

* Injection for complicated intra-abdominal infections and UTIs