Carbapenems

Bactericidal, broad spectrum (penetrates body tissues and fluids, including CSF)

Caution in renal impairment, pregnancy class c

Imipenem/cilastatin (Primaxin-IM,IV); Meropenem (merrem); Ertapenem (Invanz); Doripenem (Doribax)

May cause drug induced seizure activity; allergy (possible cross-sensitivity to PCN/cephalosporins); superinfection

Monitor renal function, assess for pregnancy

Serious complicated body cavity and connective tissue; acutely ill hospitalized patients; infections resistant to other drugs; pneumonia; peritonitis; UTI; bone; joint; skin; soft-tissue infections; many other uses