Primaxin (Cilastatin/Imipenem) is a prescription medication used to treat bacterial infections in several parts of the body. The drug is used for treating complicated infections in the abdomen, lungs, urinary tract, skin, and soft tissues. Without treatment, bacterial infections can lead to severe, life-threatening conditions. Primaxin is also used to manage fever due to bacterial infection in patients with low white blood cell counts. The active ingredients in Primaxin are Cilastatin and Imipenem. Cilastatin belongs to a class of drugs called dehydripeptidase inhibitors. It works by helping imipenem stay active in your body for a longer period. Imipenem belongs to a class of medications called carbapenem antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria in the body.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Primaxin from Canada manufactured by Merck in the strength of 500 mg/500 mg powder for intravenous infusion. The generic Cilastatin/Imipenem is not available.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while receiving Primaxin. The most common side effects of Primaxin may include the following:
• Diarrhea;
• Dizziness;
• Fever;
• Increase in some white blood cells;
• Nausea;
• Rash;
• Swelling along a vein;
• Vomiting
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Appetite loss;
• Breathing difficulties;
• Fever;
• Jaundice;
• Light-headedness;
• Seizures;
• Severe stomach pain;
• Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
These are not all of the side effects of Primaxin. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not receive Primaxin if you are allergic to Cilastatin, Imipenem, or any ingredient in Primaxin. Before you start receiving this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are allergic to other antibiotics like penicillin or cephalosporin;
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have gastrointestinal disease like colitis;
• Have kidney problems;
• Have liver problems;
• Have seizures or any central nervous system disorders
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Primaxin and ganciclovir, probenecid, valproic acid, warfarin, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if Primaxin will harm an unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Primaxin is excreted in breast milk in small amounts and may affect a nursing baby. Use Primaxin precisely as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor will prepare and administer the drug intravenously over a period of time, depending on your dose. The rate of infusion may be slowed if you feel sick. If you are administering this drug to yourself at home, learn all the preparation and usage instructions from your doctor. Primaxin may cause dizziness and a spinning sensation. Do not drive or operate machinery when receiving this drug. Use the diluted solution immediately. Do not freeze. Store this drug below 250C.
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