Abstract | IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD: Given their broad-spectrum and safety, carbapenems are a widely used class of antibiotics, especially in the treatment of hospital-acquired infections including infections due to multidrug-resistant organisms. Ertapenem is a unique member of this class, with a narrower spectrum that lacks reliable activity against Pseudomonas and Enterococcus. Given its spectrum and half-life of 4 h it is better suited to use in community-acquired infections and it is particularly well positioned for use in the outpatient setting. AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW: WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN: This review will enable the reader to understand differences between the different carbapenems, especially with regard to ertapenem. Once an understanding is gained with regard to pharmacology and microbiology, the reader will be positioned to understand better those circumstances in which use of ertapenem should be considered. TAKE HOME MESSAGE: Substantial differences between the carbapenems exist. Ertapenem has unique characteristics that may make it useful in specific clinical circumstances that are detailed in this review.
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Authors | Blaise L Congeni |
Journal | Expert opinion on pharmacotherapy
(Expert Opin Pharmacother)
Vol. 11
Issue 4
Pg. 669-72
(Mar 2010)
ISSN: 1744-7666 [Electronic] England |
PMID | 20163277
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)
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Chemical References |
- Anti-Bacterial Agents
- beta-Lactams
- Ertapenem
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Topics |
- Anti-Bacterial Agents
(chemistry, pharmacokinetics, therapeutic use)
- Community-Acquired Infections
(drug therapy, metabolism)
- Ertapenem
- Half-Life
- Humans
- Outpatients
- beta-Lactams
(chemistry, pharmacokinetics, therapeutic use)
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