Pharmacology Chapter 45: Carbapenems Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the action of carbapenems?

Activate bacteria to multiply

Enhance bacterial cell wall synthesis

Impair protein synthesis

Inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis (correct)

What are carbapenems used for?

To treat severe infections by multidrug resistant organisms.

What are common adverse effects of carbapenems?

Severe diarrhea, dizziness, confusion, seizures, and phlebitis.

How does Probenecid interact with carbapenems?

It inhibits the urinary excretion of carbapenems and should not be administered concurrently. Signup and view all the answers

What effect do carbapenem antibiotics have on valproic acid?

They may produce a reduction in valproic acid levels, leading to loss of seizure control. Signup and view all the answers

What is the interaction between Ganciclovir and carbapenems?

Concurrent administration may result in increased incidence of seizures. Signup and view all the answers

What is the brand name of Doripenem?

Doribax Signup and view all the answers

What is the brand name of Etrapenem?

Invanz Signup and view all the answers

What is the brand name of Imipenem-Cilastatin?

Primaxin Signup and view all the answers

What is the brand name of Meropenem?

Merrem IV Signup and view all the answers

What assessments should be conducted before initiating therapy with carbapenems?

Assess gastric symptoms, allergies to penicillin and cephalosporins, and history of seizures. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Actions

Inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis
Potent broad-spectrum agents
Resistant to beta-lactamase enzymes secreted by bacteria

Uses

Indicated for severe infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms

Common Adverse Effects

Severe diarrhea
Dizziness
Confusion and seizures, including myoclonic activity, focal tremors, and confusional states
Risk of phlebitis; monitor for thrombophlebitis

Drug Interactions: Probenicid

Inhibits urinary excretion of carbapenems
Concomitant administration is contraindicated

Drug Interactions: Valproic Acid

Carbapenem antibiotics may lower valproic acid levels
Risk of loss of seizure control due to reduced levels

Drug Interaction: Ganciclovir

Concurrent use of imipenem-cilastin with ganciclovir increases seizure incidence
Avoid concurrent administration if possible

Doripenem

Brand name: Doribax

Etrapenem

Brand name: Invanz

Imipenem-Cilastin

Brand name: Primaxin

Meropenem

Brand name: Merrem IV

Premedication Assessment

Assess and document gastric symptoms prior to therapy initiation
Check for allergies, specifically to penicillin and cephalosporins
Inquire about history of seizures

Description

Test your knowledge on Carbapenems with this flashcard quiz from Pharmacology Chapter 45. Explore the actions, uses, and common adverse effects of this important drug class. Perfect for students preparing for exams or anyone looking to enhance their pharmacological understanding.