Ertapenem

Class: Carbapenem Antibiotic

Mechanism of Action: Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), leading to bacterial cell lysis. Broad spectrum against Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and anaerobic bacteria, with exceptions noted below.

Indications

• Complicated intra-abdominal infections
• Complicated skin and skin structure infections
• Community-acquired pneumonia
• Complicated urinary tract infections
• Diabetic foot infections (without osteomyelitis)
• Pelvic infections
• Prevention of infections following colorectal surgery

Dosage

• Adults: 1 g IV or IM once daily
• Children (3 months–17 years): 15 mg/kg IV or IM once daily (Max: 1 g/day)

Maximum Dose

1 g per day

Side Effects

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Headache
• Injection site pain or redness
• Vomiting
• Rash

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to ertapenem or other carbapenems
• Known allergy to lidocaine (for IM administration)

Compatible Fluids

• 0.9% Sodium Chloride
• 5% Dextrose

Route of Administration

• Intravenous (IV) infusion
• Intramuscular (IM) injection

Type of Administration

IV: Infuse over 30 minutes. IM: Inject into a large muscle mass (e.g., gluteus muscle).

Special Precautions

• Adjust dose in renal impairment
• Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity reactions
• Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures
• Prolonged use may lead to superinfection (e.g., C. difficile colitis)