Ertapenem

Q: Ertapenem (invanz) has a _________ spectrum of activity than imipenem or meropenem? (select one)

A) narrower 
B) wider


Answer: A

Ertapenem is relatively a newer carbapenem. It has a narrower spectrum of activity than imipenem or meropenem. Clinically, it is mostly used for abdominal coverage as it is active against most Enterobacteriaceae and anaerobes. Added advantage is its longer half-life and can be administered once daily.

#pharmacology
#infectious-diseases 


References:

1. Collins VL, Marchaim D, Pogue JM, et al. Efficacy of ertapenem for treatment of bloodstream infections caused by extended-spectrum-β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2012;56(4):2173-2177. 

2. Curran M, Simpson D, Perry C. Ertapenem: A Review of Its Use in the Management of Bacterial Infections. Drugs. 2003;63(17):1855-1878.

3.  Zhanel GG, Johanson C, Embil JM, Noreddin A, Gin A, Vercaigne L, Hoban DJ. Ertapenem: review of a new carbapenem.- Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther. 2005 Feb;3(1):23-39.