Cilastatin

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Cilastatin

Cilastatin is a chemical compound that is often used in combination with the antibiotic Imipenem to prevent its degradation in the kidneys. It is a dehydropeptidase inhibitor, which means it blocks the action of dehydropeptidase enzymes in the kidneys that would otherwise break down imipenem. By doing this, cilastatin allows more imipenem to stay in the body to fight bacterial infections.

History

Cilastatin was first approved for medical use in the United States in 1985. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, which includes the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system.

Medical Uses

Cilastatin is not an antibiotic itself, but it is combined with the antibiotic imipenem to help it stay in the body longer. This combination is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including those caused by gram-positive bacteria, gram-negative bacteria, and anaerobic bacteria. It is also used to treat infections that are resistant to other antibiotics.

Pharmacology

Cilastatin works by inhibiting the enzyme dehydropeptidase I, which is found in the kidneys and is responsible for breaking down imipenem. By blocking this enzyme, cilastatin allows more imipenem to stay in the body and fight infections.

Side Effects

Like all medicines, cilastatin can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin rash. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects like seizures, confusion, and allergic reactions.

See Also

• Imipenem
• Dehydropeptidase
• Antibiotics