Ertapenem Sodium

Generic Name: ertapenem sodium

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Ertapenem

Ertapenem sodium is a sterile, synthetic carbapenem antibiotic for parenteral administration, indicated for moderate to severe bacterial infections.

Overview

Ertapenem sodium is a sterile, synthetic carbapenem antibiotic for parenteral administration, indicated for moderate to severe bacterial infections.

Uses

Treatment of moderate to severe infections in adults and pediatric patients (3+ months): complicated intra-abdominal infections, skin/skin structure infections, community-acquired pneumonia, urinary tract infections, acute pelvic infections, and surgical site infection prophylaxis for colorectal surgery.

Dosage

Adults/pediatrics 13+: 1 gram daily IV/IM. Ages 3 months-12 years: 15 mg/kg twice daily (max 1 gram/day). IV infusion over 30 minutes for up to 14 days or IM for up to 7 days.

Side Effects

Most common: diarrhea, nausea, headache, infused vein complication in adults. Diarrhea, vomiting, infusion site pain in pediatrics.

Interactions

Probenecid reduces renal clearance. Valproic acid/divalproex sodium interaction increases seizure risk.

Warnings

Hypersensitivity reactions, seizure potential, valproic acid interaction, C. difficile-associated diarrhea. Contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to product components or anaphylactic reactions to beta-lactams, and amide local anesthetic hypersensitivity for IM use.

Pregnancy

Animal studies showed no developmental malformations at therapeutic exposures. Limited human data available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ertapenem Sodium used for?

Treatment of moderate to severe infections in adults and pediatric patients (3+ months): complicated intra-abdominal infections, skin/skin structure infections, community-acquired pneumonia, urinary tract infections, acute pelvic infections, and surgical site infection prophylaxis for colorectal surgery.

What are the side effects of Ertapenem Sodium?

Most common: diarrhea, nausea, headache, infused vein complication in adults. Diarrhea, vomiting, infusion site pain in pediatrics.

Can I take Ertapenem Sodium during pregnancy?

Animal studies showed no developmental malformations at therapeutic exposures. Limited human data available.

What are the important warnings for Ertapenem Sodium?

Hypersensitivity reactions, seizure potential, valproic acid interaction, C. difficile-associated diarrhea. Contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to product components or anaphylactic reactions to beta-lactams, and amide local anesthetic hypersensitivity for IM use.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.