Imipenem/Cilastatine Hikma (Cilastatin Sodium, Imipenem Monohydrate)

Imipenem inhibits bacterial cell‑wall synthesis by binding to penicillin‑binding proteins, preventing the cross‑linking of peptidoglycan strands and causing cell lysis. Cilastatin, co‑administered, blocks renal dehydropeptidase‑I, an enzyme that would otherwise degrade imipenem, thereby preserving its plasma concentration and extending its antibacterial activity.

The prescribed dose of Imipenem/Cilastatin is individualized by the treating physician based on the type and severity of infection, the patient’s renal function, age, weight, and any concomitant medications. Dosing adjustments are especially important in patients with impaired kidney function to avoid accumulation and toxicity.

The safety of Imipenem/Cilastatin in pregnancy and lactation has not been definitively established. It should be used only if the potential benefit to the mother outweighs any possible risk to the fetus or infant, and the decision should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional.

To place an order, submit an enquiry on the product page at gnhindia.com, specifying the required quantity of Imipenem/Cilastatin Hikma. GNH India supplies hospitals, pharmacies and procurement teams worldwide, and will request verification of trade or institutional credentials before providing pricing, availability, shipping details (including cold‑chain handling where required) and import documentation.

Imipenem/cilastatin offers a broad spectrum of activity that includes many Gram‑positive, Gram‑negative and anaerobic organisms, similar to other carbapenems such as meropenem and ertapenem. Compared with meropenem, imipenem has a slightly higher risk of seizure activity, especially in patients with renal dysfunction, while ertapenem lacks activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Choice of agent depends on the pathogen profile and patient‑specific factors.

Imipenem/Cilastatin Hikma should be stored in a refrigerator at 2‑8 °C. Keep the vials in their original packaging, protect them from light, and do not freeze or shake the solution. Once reconstituted, the solution should be used promptly according to the manufacturer’s stability guidelines.

The medication is supplied as a sterile injectable solution for intravenous infusion. It must be reconstituted with the appropriate diluent, then administered over a recommended infusion time (usually 30 minutes) under aseptic conditions. The exact infusion rate and duration are determined by the prescribing clinician based on the clinical scenario.

Serious adverse events include seizures, especially in patients with renal impairment or pre‑existing CNS disorders; severe hypersensitivity reactions such as anaphylaxis; and Clostridioides difficile‑associated colitis, which can be life‑threatening. Prompt recognition and medical intervention are essential if any of these events occur.

Imipenem/Cilastatin is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to imipenem, cilastatin, or any other carbapenem antibiotics. Caution is also advised for patients with a history of seizures, severe renal impairment, or those receiving valproic acid, as the drug can reduce valproate levels and increase seizure risk.