Imipenem/Cilastatin Actavis

Imipenem/Cilastatin, the active ingredient in Imipenem/Cilastatin Actavis, is a carbapenem antibiotic presented as an injectable solution for intravenous use. It treats a range of serious bacterial infections in hospitalized adults and children, including intra‑abdominal, urinary, skin, respiratory and neutropenic infections.

GNH USA supplies Imipenem/Cilastatin Actavis as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, transplant centres, oncology centres and pharmacies worldwide.

Imipenem/Cilastatin is a broad‑spectrum carbapenem used for severe bacterial infections affecting several organ systems. - Complicated intra‑abdominal infections: provides bacterial eradication in patients with intra‑abdominal sepsis. - Complicated urinary tract infections: clears resistant uropathogens in complicated cystitis and pyelonephritis. - Skin and soft‑tissue infections: treats deep or necrotizing infections caused by Gram‑negative and Gram‑positive organisms. - Lower respiratory tract infections (pneumonia): effective against hospital‑acquired and ventilator‑associated pneumonia. - Febrile neutropenia: offers rapid coverage for high‑risk neutropenic patients with suspected bacterial infection.

Adverse reactions may occur with any antimicrobial therapy and should be monitored during treatment.

Common Side Effects: - Nausea: mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset. - Diarrhea: may be watery and self‑limiting. - Vomiting: occasional emesis after infusion. - Headache: transient cranial discomfort. - Infusion site phlebitis: local irritation at the IV site. - Elevated liver enzymes: transient increase in transaminases.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Seizures: especially in patients with renal impairment or CNS disease. - Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction requiring immediate intervention. - Clostridioides difficile colitis: antibiotic‑associated diarrhea. - Renal impairment: worsening kidney function. - Thrombocytopenia: reduced platelet count. - Neutropenia: decreased neutrophil count increasing infection risk.

Careful assessment and monitoring are required before and during therapy. - Renal function monitoring: adjust dose in patients with reduced creatinine clearance. - Central nervous system effects: avoid in patients with a history of seizures. - Hypersensitivity: discontinue if signs of allergic reaction appear. - Pregnancy safety: category B; use only when benefit outweighs risk. - Concomitant nephrotoxic drugs: increase vigilance for renal toxicity. - Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Drug‑drug interactions can modify efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Valproic acid: co‑administration may reduce valproate levels and increase seizure risk. - Other carbapenems: concurrent use can increase neurotoxicity. - Probenecid: may decrease renal clearance of imipenem, raising plasma concentrations.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Diuretics: monitor electrolytes and renal function. - NSAIDs: increased risk of renal impairment. - Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): watch for altered INR values.