Tebipenem

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Tebipenem

Tebipenem is an antibiotic that belongs to the carbapenem class of antibiotics. It is primarily used in the treatment of bacterial infections. Tebipenem is unique among carbapenems in that it is orally active, making it a convenient option for outpatient treatment of serious infections.

History

Tebipenem was first developed by Meiji Seika, a Japanese pharmaceutical company, and was approved for use in Japan in 2009. It is marketed under the brand name Orapenem. In 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Tebipenem for use in the United States.

Mechanism of Action

Like other carbapenems, Tebipenem works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in the bacterial cell wall, blocking the cross-linking of peptidoglycan chains necessary for bacterial cell wall strength and rigidity. This results in a weakened cell wall and eventual cell death.

Clinical Use

Tebipenem is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and skin and soft tissue infections. It is particularly useful in treating infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Tebipenem include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea and allergic reactions.

Resistance

While Tebipenem is a potent antibiotic, resistance to it can develop. Resistance typically occurs through the production of beta-lactamase enzymes that can inactivate the drug, or through changes in the PBPs that prevent the drug from binding effectively.

List of carbapenems

• Doripenem
• Ertapenem
• Imipenem
• Meropenem