2. Academic Validation
  3. Comparative review of imipenem/cilastatin versus meropenem

Comparative review of imipenem/cilastatin versus meropenem

  • Med Mal Infect. 2020 Jun;50(4):316-322. doi: 10.1016/j.medmal.2020.01.001.
A Salmon-Rousseau 1,  C Martins 2,  M Blot 2,  M Buisson 2,  S Mahy 2,  P Chavanet 2,  L Piroth 2
Affiliations

Affiliations

  • 1 Département d'Infectiologie CHU Dijon, 5, boulevard Jeanne-d'Arc, 21000 Dijon. Electronic address: arnaud.salmonrousseau@chu-dijon.fr.
  • 2 Département d'Infectiologie CHU Dijon, 5, boulevard Jeanne-d'Arc, 21000 Dijon.
PMID: 32035719 DOI: 10.1016/j.medmal.2020.01.001
Abstract

Introduction: Carbapenems are broad-spectrum Antibacterial molecules. Imipenem-cilastatin and meropenem are the two main molecules used in French healthcare services.

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the relative strengths and weaknesses of these two molecules by considering their pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, microbiological, and clinical properties. We demonstrated that imipenem-cilastatin and meropenem are not alike.

Method: Review of the literature by querying the MEDLINE network.

Results: Imipenem-cilastatin is the first marketed molecule of the carbapenem class. It is more effective against Gram-positive cocci. Its stability does not allow for long infusions and its main adverse effect on the central nervous system limits its use. Meropenem is more effective against Gram-negative bacilli. Its stability and its milder adverse effects distinguish it from imipenem-cilastatin.

Conclusion: Meropenem is preferred for daily use in healthcare services when carbapenems are to be used.

Keywords

Antibiotic stewardship; Carbapenem; Imipenem/cilastatin; Meropenem.

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