Spectrum: Local Antimicrobial Stewardship, for Island Health

Imipenem-Cilastatin

C. diff Risk

Medium

Oral Bioavailability

NA

Approximate Cost

$28/day

Spectrum Of Activity

General Spectrum of Activity

Spectrum Of Activity

Dosing

Adult

500 mg IV q6h

Renal

General Information

Adverse Effects

Adverse Effects

  •  Immediate and delayed-type allergy

  •  GI upset

  •  Cytopenias, positive Coombs

  •  Liver enzyme (increased AST/ALT)

  •  CNS effects including confusion, seizures

  •  C difficile colitis

Major Interactions

Major Interactions

May decrease serum concentrations of valproic acid.

May increase risk of seizures with ganciclovir, valganciclovir.

Cyclosporine may increase risk of seizures with imipenem.

Pharmacology

Pharmacology

Antimicrobial class: Carbapenem

Average serum half life: 1 hour

CSF penetration: yes, but meropenem preferred for CNS infections due to seizure risk with imipenem-cilastatin