The U.S. FDA approved cilastatin + imipenem in 1985. It is used in treating various complex infections in the abdominal region, lung-related infections like pneumonia, and those occurring around the time of childbirth. Additionally, it proves effective against complicated urinary tract infections as well as skin and soft tissue infections. Moreover, this medicine finds utility in managing patients with low white blood cell counts and suspected bacterial-induced fevers. Furthermore, it serves as a viable option for treating bloodstream infections potentially linked to the types of infections.

Cilastatin + imipenem is used to induce muscle relaxation in tracheal tube insertion for artificial ventilation and in intensive care unit surgery (ICU).

This medicine is given only in a hospital setup by a healthcare provider. cilastatin + imipenem will be given to you by your doctor. It is given intravenously (into a vein), either as single injections or as a continuous infusion (a drip). Your physician will decide the dosage and frequency of this injection based on the severity of your disease and other factors. 

This medication can cause undesirable effects such as breathing difficulties or cessation, severe allergic coronary blood vessel spasms causing chest pain (angina) or heart attacks (myocardial infarctions), and pupil enlargement or unresponsiveness to light and stimuli.

Do not use Cilastatin + Imipenem if you are allergic to Cilastatin, Imipenem, Penicillins, Cephalosporins, Carbapenems, or any of its ingredients. Before starting the treatment, you must inform your doctor about any allergies you have, including antibiotic allergies. This is important because severe allergic reactions may require immediate medical attention. Additionally, it's important to let your doctor know if you have colitis, any other gastrointestinal conditions, or kidney or urinary problems, especially if your kidney function is reduced. In cases of reduced kidney function, medicine levels can increase, potentially leading to adverse effects on the central nervous system if dosing is not adjusted appropriately.

Notify your doctor if you have any central nervous system disorders, such as localized tremors or epileptic seizures (fits) and liver conditions. Cilastatin + Imipenem is not advised for pediatric patients weighing under 30 kg. Additionally, it is not suitable for individuals with meningitis due to the lack of established safety and effectiveness in this context. This medication should not be used for children under one or those with kidney issues. Before starting the treatment, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or think you may be pregnant or breastfeeding because it is not recommended to use this medicine unless your doctor advises. This medicine contains sodium. Inform your doctor if you are on a sodium-free diet. 

Patients with liver conditions should take Cilastatin + Imipenem cautiously and should inform the doctor about all the underlying medical conditions. Do not stop the medicine until your doctor advises. Notify your doctor if you experience any serious side effects. Your medical professional will inform you if you need any dose adjustments. Contact your doctor for more information. A positive test known as the Coombs test may arise, indicating the potential presence of antibodies that could harm red blood cells. Your doctor will have a conversation with you regarding this matter. If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider. 

1. Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Jan 2023] [Accessed on 10th August 2023], TIENAM, INN-Imipenem/Cilastatin (medicines.org.uk)
2. Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited, US Food & Drug Administration, [Revised on Dec 2016] [Accessed on 10th August 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/050587s074lbl.pdf
3. Camille E. Beauduy, Lisa G. Winston, Beta-Lactam & Other Cell Wall- & Membrane-Active Antibiotics, Lange’s Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 795-814.
4. KD Tripathi, Beta-Lactam Antibiotics, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019, 766-783.

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.