Primaxin Description

Primaxin is a potent carbapenem-type antibiotic that fights certain harmful bacteria in the body. Primaxin contains two medicines – Imipenem and Cilastatin. It is delivered as an intravenous injection administered by a doctor or other trained healthcare worker in a hospital or clinic setting to quickly kill the bacteria in your body that is causing the infection. Primaxin will not work for fungal or viral infections.

How the Active Ingredients Work to Kill Bacteria

When administered by your doctor or medical equivalent, Imipenem works by binding to certain proteins that are involved in the production of mucopeptides which are essential to the bacterial cell walls. Without the mucopeptides to form a strong cell wall, holes can form and allow the contents to leak out and the bacteria will die. Cilastatin is paired with Imipenem to inhibit the human enzyme called dehydropeptidase. This enzyme is located in the kidney and can breakdown Imipenem before it has the opportunity to kill the bacteria.

Conditions Treated by Primaxin

Primaxin can be used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, though it is most effective for ones affecting the skin, vagina, bones or joints, and lower respiratory tract. These tend to develop when harmful bacteria enter the body and begin reproducing rapidly. They will generally cause a variety of symptoms, including redness, swelling, and pain, and may worsen if left unchecked. Primaxin may be administered to prevent infections that may occur after undergoing certain surgical procedures.

Before a Primaxin Injection

Ask your doctor about any risks of using Primaxin while you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Explain other medical conditions or allergies you have to your doctor and list any current OTC or Rx drugs you take or use, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements so your doctor can determine if Primaxin is safe for you.

Precautions for Primaxin

Make sure to tell your doctor about any heart problems, kidney disease, or epilepsy before you start taking Primaxin. In addition, you will need to report any watery or bloody stools that you experience during treatment, as this could signal a new infection.

Until you know how Primaxin will affect you, refrain from taking part in any activities that may be considered unsafe if you are not attentive.

Possible Side Effects of Primaxin

• Irritation at the injection site
• Nausea, heartburn, and vomiting
• Skin irritation
• Dizziness and fatigue
• Numbness

Drugs Similar to Primaxin

• Merrem
• Invanz
• Levaquin