Ertapenem (Injection)

Ertapenem (er-ta-PEN-em)

Treats infections caused by bacteria. Belongs to a class of drugs called antibiotics.

Brand Name(s):

Invanz
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to ertapenem, meropenem or imipenem, or to similar medicines such as amoxicillin, penicillin, piperacillin, ticarcillin (such as Augmentin®, Unasyn®, Zosyn®). You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to lidocaine or other numbing medicines.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into a muscle, or into a vein.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. It may also be given by a home health caregiver.
• You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• After the powder medicine has been mixed with the liquid medicine, it should be used right away.
• Use a new needle and syringe each time you inject your medicine.
• Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you store this medicine at home, keep it at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. You may store the mixed medicine in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Do not freeze.
• Keep all medicine away from children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using probenecid (Benemid®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, or a history of seizures, head injury, or brain tumor.
• Tell your doctor about any allergic reactions you have had to a medicine (especially an antibiotic).
• If this medicine gives you diarrhea, talk to your doctor before taking medicine to stop the diarrhea.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood or urine at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
• Bloody or black, tarry stools
• Change in how much or how often you urinate
• Diarrhea (mild or severe)
• Fever
• Slow or irregular heartbeat
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
• Yellow eyes or skin

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Confusion, sleepiness, or mood changes
• Constipation, stomach pain
• Headache
• Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
• Pain, swelling, or irritation where the needle is placed
• Vaginal itching or discharge

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.