Hanan Anbar Pharmacokinetics: Antibiotic Route of Administration

Study Notes

Imipenem and meropenem are broad-spectrum antimicrobial drugs effective against most aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, except for some Pseudomonas strains.
Imipenem is combined with cilastatin to prevent inactivation by the dihydropeptidase enzyme in the kidney and reduce renal toxicity, while meropenem does not undergo metabolism by this enzyme.
Common adverse effects of these drugs include blood disorders and seizures in high doses, with meropenem being less likely to cause seizures. Gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and vomiting may also occur.
Vancomycin is effective against multiple drug-resistant organisms like MRSA, working by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis and damaging the cell membrane.
Vancomycin is primarily used for serious MRSA infections in patients allergic to penicillins or cephalosporins, administered via slow IV infusion.
Resistance to vancomycin can occur due to changes in drug permeability or decreased binding to receptor molecules.
Penicillins like penicillin G have limitations such as acid lability, short half-life, narrow spectrum, and susceptibility to β-lactamase enzymes, requiring frequent injections and careful administration.

Description

Test your knowledge on the route of administration of β-lactam antibiotics based on factors like stability to gastric acid and severity of infection. Learn about the preferred administration methods and precautions for different antibiotics.