See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Ertapenem
What is the standard Ertapenem dose?
The typical dose of Ertapenem for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older is 1 gram administered intravenously or intramuscularly once every 24 hours. For pediatric patients aged 3 months to 12 years, the dose is 15 mg/kg administered intravenously or intramuscularly every 24 hours, not to exceed the adult dose of 1 gram. Dosing may need to be adjusted for patients with severe renal impairment [1].
How is Ertapenem administered?
Ertapenem is administered either intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM). The 1 gram vial is reconstituted with 3.2 mL of sterile water for injection for IM administration. For IV infusion, the reconstituted solution is further diluted [1].
How long is an Ertapenem treatment course?
The duration of Ertapenem treatment varies depending on the type and severity of the infection. For example, treatment for complicated intra-abdominal infections typically lasts 5 to 14 days, while treatment for complicated skin and skin structure infections can range from 7 to 10 days. The recommended duration for community-acquired pneumonia is typically 7 days [1].
What are the common side effects of Ertapenem?
Commonly reported side effects of Ertapenem include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache, rash, and injection site pain or inflammation [1].
When does Ertapenem's patent expire?
According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the patent expiry for Ertapenem is a complex landscape with multiple patents covering different aspects of the drug. The core patents for Ertapenem have expired, opening the door for generic competition. However, some secondary patents or formulation patents might still be in effect [2].
Can generic Ertapenem be used?
Yes, generic versions of Ertapenem are available following the expiry of primary patents. The availability of generics has led to increased competition and potentially lower costs for the medication.
Who manufactures Ertapenem?
The originator brand of Ertapenem is Invanz®, manufactured by Merck & Co. Various pharmaceutical companies also manufacture generic versions of Ertapenem [3].
How does Ertapenem's pricing compare to alternatives?
The pricing of Ertapenem can vary significantly between the branded and generic versions. Generic Ertapenem is generally less expensive than the branded formulation. Comparative pricing would also depend on the specific alternative antibiotic being considered and the negotiated prices within healthcare systems [3].
What types of infections is Ertapenem used to treat?
Ertapenem is a carbapenem antibiotic used to treat various serious bacterial infections. These include complicated intra-abdominal infections, complicated skin and skin structure infections, community-acquired pneumonia, and acute pelvic infections, including postpartum endomyometritis and intra-abdominal abscess [1].
What are the risks of using Ertapenem?
Potential risks associated with Ertapenem use include the development of Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea, hypersensitivity reactions, and central nervous system effects. As with all antibiotics, there is also a risk of promoting antibiotic-resistant bacteria [1].
How does Ertapenem work?
Ertapenem is a carbapenem antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). This action leads to bacterial cell lysis and death. It has a broad spectrum of activity against many Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and anaerobic bacteria [1].
What is the difference between Ertapenem and other carbapenems?
While all carbapenems share a similar mechanism of action and broad spectrum, Ertapenem has a longer half-life, allowing for once-daily dosing. It also has a narrower spectrum of activity compared to some other carbapenems like imipenem or meropenem, as it is less active against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus species, and MRSA [1].
How is Ertapenem dosage adjusted for kidney problems?
For patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min), Ertapenem dosage may need to be adjusted. The recommended dose for these patients is 500 mg IV or IM once every 24 hours. No dosage adjustment is recommended for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment. Hemodialysis patients on maintenance hemodialysis receive a dose of 500 mg once every 24 hours, and a 150 mg supplemental dose should be administered after each hemodialysis session [1].
Sources
1. https://www.drugs.com/ertapenem.html
2. https://drugpatentwatch.com/
3. https://www.goodrx.com/ertapenem