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Imipenem is an intravenous beta-lactam antibiotic developed in 1985. Imipenem belongs to the subgroup of carbapenems. It is derived from a compound called thienamycin, which is produced by the bacteria Streptomyces cattleya. Imipenem has a broad spectrum of activity against aerobic and anaerobic Gram positive as well as Gram negative bacteria. It is particularly important for its activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the Enterococcus species. It is not active against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, however. Imipenem and other drugs in the carbapenem class are commonly referred to as "magic bullets." Their use is typically restricted in order to avoid widespread bacterial resistance.
Co-administration with cilastatin
Imipenem is rapidly degraded by the renal enzyme dehydropeptidase when administered alone, and is always co-administered with cilastatin to prevent this inactivation.
Adverse effects
Common adverse drug reactions are nausea and vomiting. People who are allergic to penicillin and other beta-lactam antibiotics should not take imipenem. Imipenem can also cause seizures.
References
Clissold SP, Todd PA, Campoli Richards DM. Imipenem/Cilastatin: A reivew of its anti-bacterial activity, pharmacokinetic properties and therapeutic efficacy. Drugs 1987; 33: 183-241.
See also
"Imipenem"