Sometimes, we may not be able to get relief from the common types of pills for the diseases we suffer from. Especially in cases of severe bacterial infections, doctors have to use powerful drugs that are injected directly into the body. Imipenem and Cilastatin are a very important antibiotic injection used in such cases. Today, we will talk about this medicine in detail and simply.
What is this medicine called Imipenem and Cilastatin?
Simply put, this is a very powerful antibiotic belonging to the group called `(Carbapenem)`. Its main function is to destroy certain types of bacteria that enter our bodies and cause disease. Think of it like a specially trained commando who fights against bacteria.
But it is important to remember that this medicine only works for bacterial infections . It does not cure viral infections like the common cold and flu.
Doctors may sometimes prescribe this medication for other conditions, so if you have any questions about this, it's best to ask your doctor.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Before giving you this medicine, it is essential that your doctor is aware of your health history. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell your doctor.
- If you have a brain tumor or any other brain-related condition.
- If you have kidney disease .
- If you have had a seizure before or have a similar medical condition.
- If you have an allergic reaction to this medicine, that is, to Imipenem or Cilastatin.
- If you are allergic to any other antibiotic, medicine, food, food dyes, or preservatives.
- If you are pregnant , trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding .
How do you use this medicine?
This medicine is usually given to you by injection into a vein. You will often receive this from a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic.
But sometimes, on the advice of your doctor, you may need to take this at home. If so, you will be given detailed instructions on how to prepare it and how to take it correctly. It is very important to take the correct dose at the correct time. Continue taking this treatment until your doctor tells you to stop.
Special awareness on disposal of needles and syringes
If you are getting this vaccine at home, do not throw used needles and syringes in the trash. Instead, put them in a special sharps container. If you do not have one, ask your doctor about how to get one. This is very important for your safety and the safety of others.
Do you give this to small children?
Yes, this medicine can be prescribed for specific medical conditions, from newborns to children. However, special precautions must be followed. Only your doctor can make that decision.
What to do if the medication dose is increased?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Other things that may interact with this medicine
Some medications may interact with this medicine. Therefore, you should inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
- Birth control pills
- Ganciclovir
- Probenecid
This list is not complete. So tell your doctor about all the medications, vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements you take. Be sure to tell your doctor if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use other drugs.
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
- If your symptoms do not improve, or if they worsen, or if new symptoms appear, tell your doctor immediately. He or she will examine you as necessary, including performing blood tests.
- Watch out for severe skin reactions: This medicine can sometimes cause serious skin reactions. These can occur even weeks after starting the medicine. Tell your doctor right away if you get a rash with a fever or flu-like symptoms. These rashes may turn red or purple, then blister and the skin may start to peel. Or, if you see a red rash with swelling of the face, lips, or swollen lymph nodes in the neck/armpits, seek medical advice right away.
- Diarrhea: If you have severe, watery diarrhea that lasts for more than two days, talk to your doctor instead of taking over-the-counter medication.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can have side effects. Let's break them down into two categories.
| Side Effect Symptom |
|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately |
| Allergies (skin rash, itching, swelling of the face/lips/tongue) |
| Difficulty breathing |
| Changes in blood pressure, rapid or irregular heartbeat |
| Hearing changes, dizziness, confusion |
| Dark urine, pale stools |
| Fever, malaise, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting |
| Muscle stiffness or twitching, seizures |
| Skin redness, blistering, peeling (even inside the mouth) |
| Pain in the upper right side of the stomach, yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice) |
| Difficulty urinating or a change in the amount of urine you produce |
| Pain at the injection site |
| Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (but tell your doctor if they persist) |
| Diarrhea |
| Headache |
| Stomach discomfort or pain |
| Excessive saliva production in the mouth |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything unusual, please seek medical advice.
Take-Home Message
- Imipenem; Cilastatin is a powerful antibiotic given for severe bacterial infections.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and allergies.
- Be sure to take the full course of treatment prescribed by the doctor.
- Be aware of symptoms such as severe skin reactions or severe diarrhea, and if you notice anything like that, inform your doctor immediately.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with anyone else for any reason.
- If you get vaccinated at home, safely dispose of used needles and syringes.
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