Imipenem is a semisynthetic thienamycin that has a wide spectrum of antibacterial activity against gram-negative and gram-positive aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, including many multiresistant strains. It is stable to many beta-lactamases. Similar compounds include meropenem, known for having greater activity against Gram negative bacteria, and the newer ertapenem which exhibits a longer half-life due to increased binding to plasma proteins. Imipenem is commonly used in combination with cilastatin and is now available in a triple-drug product with cilastatin and relebactam which was recently approved by the FDA. Imipenem was first approved by the FDA in November 1985 as the combination product Primaxin marketed by Merck & Co.
Imipenem is indicated, in combination with cilastatin with or without relebactam, for the treatment of bacterial infections including respiratory, skin, bone, gynecologic, urinary tract, and intra-abdominal as well as septicemia and endocarditis.
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