Carbenicillin indanyl sodium

Carbenicillin indanyl sodium is a semi-synthetic antibiotic belonging to the penicillin class, specifically a derivative of carbenicillin. It is used primarily in the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other bacteria. This antibiotic functions by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, leading to cell lysis and death. Carbenicillin indanyl sodium is particularly effective against bacteria that are resistant to other penicillin antibiotics due to its broad-spectrum activity.

Medical Uses

Carbenicillin indanyl sodium is indicated for the treatment of urinary tract infections, especially those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus species, Enterobacter species, and Escherichia coli. It is not the first-line treatment but is used in cases where the bacteria have shown resistance to other antibiotics.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action of carbenicillin indanyl sodium involves the inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to and inactivates penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) located inside the bacterial cell wall. This action inhibits the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan synthesis in bacterial cell walls, thus inhibiting cell wall biosynthesis. The result is the weakening of the bacterial cell wall and eventual cell lysis.

Pharmacokinetics

After oral administration, carbenicillin indanyl sodium is hydrolyzed to carbenicillin by esterases in the intestinal mucosa and blood. Carbenicillin is then absorbed and excreted in the urine, where it exerts its antibacterial effects. The bioavailability of carbenicillin from carbenicillin indanyl sodium is variable and depends on the presence of food in the stomach.

Side Effects

Common side effects of carbenicillin indanyl sodium include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Hypersensitivity reactions, including skin rash and anaphylaxis, may occur in patients with a history of penicillin allergy. Prolonged use may also lead to the overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi.

Drug Interactions

Carbenicillin indanyl sodium may reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives and should be used with caution in patients relying on this form of birth control. It may also increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulants like warfarin due to its effect on platelet function.

Contraindications

Carbenicillin indanyl sodium is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to penicillins. Caution is advised in patients with a history of significant allergies and asthma due to the increased risk of hypersensitivity reactions.

See Also

• Antibiotics
• Penicillin
• Urinary Tract Infection
• Pseudomonas aeruginosa