See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Ertapenem
Ertapenem's generic name is ertapenem [1].
When will ertapenem generics become available?
The patent exclusivity for ertapenem has expired, allowing for the potential entry of generic versions. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent expiry dates for pharmaceuticals [2].
What is ertapenem used to treat?
Ertapenem is a carbapenem antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. It is effective against a range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including some strains that are resistant to other antibiotics [3]. Indications typically include moderate to severe complicated intra-abdominal infections, complicated skin and skin structure infections, community-acquired pneumonia, and acute pelvic infections [4].
How does ertapenem work?
Ertapenem functions by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), which are enzymes essential for the final stages of peptidoglycan synthesis. This disruption leads to a weakened cell wall and bacterial cell death [5].
What are the side effects of ertapenem?
Common side effects associated with ertapenem treatment can include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache, and rash [6]. More serious adverse events, though less frequent, may also occur and should be reported to a healthcare provider [7].
What is the difference between ertapenem and other carbapenems?
Ertapenem is part of the carbapenem class of antibiotics, which are broad-spectrum agents. While sharing a similar mechanism of action, carbapenems differ in their spectrum of activity, pharmacokinetic profiles, and approved indications. For example, imipenem and meropenem have broader coverage against certain Gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which ertapenem is less active against [8].
Are there any safety concerns with ertapenem?
As with all antibiotics, there is a risk of developing Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) with ertapenem use [9]. Patients should be monitored for signs of this infection. Additionally, hypersensitivity reactions can occur, and caution is advised in patients with a history of penicillin allergy [10].
Who manufactures ertapenem?
The original innovator of ertapenem is Merck & Co., under the brand name Invanz [11]. Generic versions are manufactured by various pharmaceutical companies following patent expiry [2].
Can ertapenem be used in pediatric patients?
Ertapenem is approved for use in certain pediatric populations for specific indications, but dosage and safety may differ from adult use [4]. Healthcare providers determine the appropriateness of ertapenem in children based on the infection and patient factors.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/ertapenem
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[3] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/ertapenem/
[4] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/invanz
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532254/
[6] https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/204112/ertapenem-injection/details
[7] https://www.drugs.com/sfx/ertapenem-side-effects.html
[8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3255373/
[9] https://www.merck.com/newsroom/press-releases/2001/070901.html
[10] https://www.rxlist.com/invanz-drug.htm
[11] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/ertapenem