Primaxin

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Primaxin is a pharmaceutical drug used in the treatment of various bacterial infections. It is a combination of Imipenem and Cilastatin, two active ingredients that work together to inhibit the growth of bacteria.

Composition[edit | edit source]

Primaxin is composed of two active ingredients: Imipenem and Cilastatin. Imipenem is a beta-lactam antibiotic that works by binding to the penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell death. Cilastatin, on the other hand, is a renal dehydropeptidase inhibitor. It prevents the degradation of Imipenem in the kidneys, thereby increasing its concentration in the body.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Primaxin is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including pneumonia, urinary tract infections, intra-abdominal infections, gynecologic infections, skin and skin structure infections, and bone and joint infections. It is also used to treat bacteremia/septicemia caused by susceptible strains of specific bacteria.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Like all medicines, Primaxin can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Some common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects like seizures, allergic reactions, and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea.

Precautions[edit | edit source]

Before using Primaxin, patients should inform their healthcare provider if they have a history of kidney disease, liver disease, seizures, or allergies to beta-lactam antibiotics. It should be used with caution in patients with central nervous system disorders.

Interactions[edit | edit source]

Primaxin can interact with other medications, which can affect how it works or increase the risk of serious side effects. Some drugs that may interact with Primaxin include valproic acid, ganciclovir, and probenecid.

Dosage[edit | edit source]

The dosage of Primaxin depends on the patient's age, weight, kidney function, and the type of infection being treated. It is usually given by injection into a vein as directed by a healthcare provider.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Primaxin Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD