Imipenem/Cilastatin (Injection)
Cilastatin (sye-la-STAT-in), Imipenem (i-mi-PEN-em)
Treats infections caused by bacteria. Belongs to a class of drugs called antibiotics.
Brand Name(s):Primaxin IV, Primaxin IM
There may be other brand names for this medicine. When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to imipenem, cilastatin, or medicine that causes numbing such as lidocaine. How to Use This Medicine:
Injectable
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Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given.
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An intramuscular (in-tra-MUS-kyoo-ler) or IM injection is a shot given in the muscle of your thigh or buttocks.
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An intravenous (in-tra-VEEN-us) or IV injection is given through a tube put in one of your veins, usually in your arm, wrist, hand, or sometimes in your chest.
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A nurse or other caregiver trained to give injections will give your treatment.
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Sometimes you, a family member, or friend can be taught to give your medicine at home.
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If you have your treatments at home, you should be given a special container for the used needles. Keep it where children or pets cannot reach it.
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Use a new needle and syringe each time you inject your medicine.
If a dose is missed:
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This medicine needs to be given on a regular schedule.
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If you miss more than one dose, call your doctor for instructions.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
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Store the liquid medicine in a refrigerator. Do not freeze. Take it out of the refrigerator an hour before the time for your next dose and let it warm to room temperature in a clean, dry place.
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Store the dry powder and bottles at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
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Keep all medicine out of the reach of 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.
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Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking probenecid (Benemid®) or ganciclovir (Cytovene®) before you are treated with imipenem/cilastatin.
Warnings While Using This Medicine:
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Make sure your doctor knows if you have ever had an allergic reaction, especially to any other antibiotics such as penicillin or cephalosporin (Keflex®, Ceclor®).
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If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
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Make sure your doctor knows if you have kidney disease or a seizure disorder.
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If this medicine gives you diarrhea, talk to your doctor before taking medicine to stop the diarrhea.
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If your infection does not get better or if it gets worse while you are using this medicine, tell your doctor.
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
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Fast or irregular heartbeat
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Seizures
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Severe diarrhea (watery or bloody)
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Skin rash, hives, or itching
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Swelling in the face, throat, or lips
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Swelling, pain, or redness near where your IV needle is placed
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Urinating less than one cup in a day
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Wheezing or trouble breathing
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
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Mild diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
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Pain where your IM shot was given
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Sore mouth or tongue
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Vaginal itching or discharge
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
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