Cilastatin + Imipenem
Uses of Cilastatin + Imipenem
- Cilastatin + Imipenem is a combination antibiotic used to treat serious and complex bacterial infections. It belongs to the carbapenem class of antibiotics and is typically used in hospital settings for severe infections that do not respond to other antibiotics.
Cilastatin + Imipenem is commonly used for:
1. Lower respiratory tract infections: Treats severe lung infections including hospital-acquired pneumonia caused by susceptible bacteria.
2. Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Manages complicated UTIs, including those involving the kidneys.
3. Intra-abdominal infections: Treats serious infections within the abdominal cavity, such as peritonitis and abscesses.
4. Gynaecological infections: Manages severe infections affecting the uterus, fallopian tubes, and surrounding pelvic structures.
5. Bacterial septicaemia (blood poisoning): Used in the treatment of life-threatening bloodstream infections.
6. Bone and joint infections: Treats deep-seated infections affecting bones (osteomyelitis) and joints (septic arthritis).
7. Skin and soft tissue infections: Manages severe or complicated skin infections that require intravenous antibiotic treatment.
8. Endocarditis: Used in the treatment of bacterial infection of the inner lining of the heart, under specialist medical supervision.
Side effects of Cilastatin + Imipenem
Pain and inflammation at injection site
Gastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea)
Skin rash and itching
Fever
Dizziness
How Cilastatin + Imipenem works
- Cilastatin + Imipenem works through two complementary actions that together make it a highly effective treatment for serious bacterial infections.
- Imipenem is a broad-spectrum carbapenem antibiotic. It kills bacteria by disrupting the formation of their cell wall - the protective outer layer that bacteria need to survive. Without an intact cell wall, bacteria cannot hold their shape and eventually break apart and die.
- Cilastatin does not have antibiotic activity on its own. Its role is to protect Imipenem from being broken down by an enzyme in the kidneys called dehydropeptidase-1. By blocking this enzyme, Cilastatin ensures that Imipenem reaches the site of infection in sufficient concentrations to be effective.
Certified content
Written By
BDS, MDS
Reviewed By
BAMS, FMC, MD Resident
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
- Cilastatin + Imipenem is available as a sterile powder for intravenous infusion.
Age and Dose Restrictions
- This medication is meant for both adults and children. It should be used in paediatric patients weighing more than 30 kg without any history of renal impairment.
Contraindications
- Cilastatin + Imipenem is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of the combination.
Other Medications to Avoid
- This combination may interact with other carbapenem antibiotics (e.g., doripenem, meropenem), local anaesthetics (e.g., bupivacaine, etidocaine) and beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g., penicillin, amoxicillin).
Overdose and Missed Dose
- Cilastatin + Imipenem is administered by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting, so the risk of overdose is low. However, if too much is given, symptoms may include muscle twitching, confusion, or seizures. If an overdose is suspected, medical staff will provide supportive treatment. In some cases, haemodialysis may be used to help remove the medicine from the body.
- As this medicine is given by a healthcare professional, missed doses are managed by your doctor. If you have any concerns about your dosing schedule, speak to your doctor or nurse directly.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
- Drinking plenty of fluids may help manage gastrointestinal distress such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
- Rest and relaxation techniques can help manage central nervous system side effects like dizziness, sleepiness, and confusion.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
- This medicine may affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machines. Avoid these activities if you experience dizziness, sleepiness, and confusion after taking this medicine.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
- Caution is advised when using Cilastatin + Imipenem during pregnancy. This combination should only be used if absolutely necessary and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Additionally, since this medication can pass into breast milk, nursing mothers should also use it with caution and only under medical supervision.
Caution in Other Conditions
- Patients with renal impairment should exercise caution while taking this medicine as dosage adjustment may be necessary.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
- Maintaining a balanced diet can help improve general health and boost the immune system which is beneficial when dealing with infections.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cilastatin + Imipenem a steroid?
No, Cilastatin + Imipenem is not a steroid. It is an antibiotic combination used to manage serious bacterial infections.
Will Cilastatin + Imipenem affect fertility?
There is no known effect of Cilastatin + Imipenem on human fertility from the available data. If you have concerns about fertility, consult your doctor.
Is it safe to take Cilastatin + Imipenem daily?
Cilastatin + Imipenem should be taken as per your doctor’s recommendation.
How much time does Cilastatin + Imipenem take to work?
The time taken by Cilastatin + Imipenem to work may vary depending on the type and severity of infection.
What is the best time to take Cilastatin + Imipenem
Cilastatin + Imipenem should be administered as advised by your doctor.
How does Cilastatin + Imipenem affect mood?
Cilastatin + Imipenem is not known to affect mood. However, if you experience abnormal mood changes while taking this medicine, consult with your doctor.
Can I take Cilastatin + Imipenem without a meal?
There is no specific guideline about taking Cilastatin + Imipenem with or without food. It is best to follow your doctor's instructions on how to take this medicine.
List of medicines for Cilastatin + Imipenem
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