Primaxin IV

Generic name: imipenem and cilastatin [ IM-i-PEN-em-and-SYE-la-STAT-in ]
Drug class: Carbapenems

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Sep 7, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Primaxin IV?

Primaxin IV is an antibiotic that is used in adults and children to treat bacterial infections of the heart, lungs, bladder, kidneys, skin, blood, bones, joints, stomach, or female reproductive organs.

Primaxin IV may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Primaxin IV side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Primaxin IV may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe stomach pain, diarrhea that is watery or bloody (even if it occurs months after your last dose);

• pain, swelling, burning, or irritation around the IV needle; or

• seizure (convulsions).

Common side effects of Primaxin IV may include:

• pain, bruising, induration, redness, swelling, or irritation where the medicine was injected;

• fever, feeling light-headed, seizures;

• fast heart rate, little or no urination, urine discoloration;

• thrush (a fungal infection);

• dizziness, drowsiness;

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; or

• itching, rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

prednisone, amoxicillin, doxycycline, azithromycin, cephalexin, ciprofloxacin, metronidazole

Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Primaxin IV if you are allergic to imipenem or cilastatin.

Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

• an allergy to similar antibiotics such as meropenem, cephalexin, cefdinir, amoxicillin, ampicillin, penicillin, and others;

• a stroke, epilepsy or other seizure disorder;

• a head injury or brain tumor;

• any other type of allergy; or

• kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis).

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How is Primaxin IV given?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Primaxin IV is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider may give you this injection or may teach you how to properly use this medicine by yourself.

Prepare an injection only when you are ready to give it. Call your pharmacist if the medicine looks cloudy, has changed colors or has particles in it. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you don't understand how to use an injection.

Be sure you understand how to properly mix this medicine with a liquid (diluent) and how to store the mixture.

Depending on the severity of the infection, Primaxin IV is usually given for as long as needed after lab tests show that the infection has cleared.

Your kidney function may need to be checked often.

Antibiotic medicines can cause diarrhea. Tell your doctor if you have diarrhea that is watery or bloody.

Keep using this medicine even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses could make your infection resistant to medication. Primaxin IV will not treat a viral infection (flu or a common cold).

Doses are based on weight in children. Your child's dose may change if the child gains or loses weight.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while receiving Primaxin IV?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect Primaxin IV?

When you start or stop receiving Primaxin IV, your doctor may need to adjust the doses of other medicines you use on a regular basis.

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:

• ganciclovir;

• probenecid; or

• divalproex sodium, valproic acid (Depakote, Depakene).

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect Primaxin IV, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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