Selected Antimicrobial Information – Companion Animal
Imipenem [Companion]
Restriction Status
Protected
Dose
| Species | Usage | Dose |
|---|---|---|
| Cats |
For susceptible pathogens resistant to other antimicrobials | 5mg/kg IV q6-8h (reduce dose for patients with renal disease) or CRI (extra-label use) |
| Dogs |
For susceptible pathogens resistant to other antimicrobials | 5mg/kg IV q6-8h (reduce dose for patients with renal disease) or CRI (extra-label use) |
Brand Name(s)
Primaxin®
Background
Imipenem is a bactericidal, time-dependent carbapenem (β-lactam) antibiotic with broad-spectrum activity against Gram-positive aerobes, Gram-negative aerobes, and anaerobes. Imipenem is formulated with cilastatin, which slows the metabolism of imipenem. Many Enterobacteriaceae that are resistant to other antimicrobials will be susceptible to imipenem; therefore, use should be strictly reserved for infections caused by organisms that are resistant to other antimicrobial choices. Carbapenem resistance is a growing problem in human medicine and is expected to become an issue in veterinary medicine with time. Distribution of imipenem throughout the body is wide, and excretion is primarily in urine.
Acceptable Uses
- Treatment of severe infections that are culture-confirmed to be resistant to other antimicrobial choices. Particularly useful for Gram-negative infections.
Unacceptable Uses
- Empiric treatment, except in cases of sepsis or meningitis with a high index of suspicion for multidrug resistant infections.
Formulations Available within the OSU Pharmacy
- There are currently no formulations of imipenem available at the OSU pharmacy; available upon request
Notes
- Imipenem use in animals is highly controversial, and should only be considered as a last resort when other antimicrobial treatment options have been ruled out.
- Imipenem is on the protected antimicrobial list for the OSU-VMC, and approval must be obtained from the Antimicrobial Stewardship Working Group prior to prescribing.
- It is recommended that this medication be used only via IV administration due to pain and injection site reactions with SQ or IM administration.
