Doripen 500 IV

Indications

Doripenem is a hospital antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections, such as complicated infections inside the abdomen (for example after a burst appendix) and complicated urinary tract and kidney infections, including those caused by bacteria resistant to many other antibiotics.

How It Works

Doripenem belongs to the carbapenem group of antibiotics. It stops bacteria from building their cell wall, so the bacteria burst and die. It works against a wide range of bacteria, including many Gram negative bacteria such as Pseudomonas.

Dosage and Administration

Doripenem is given only in hospital by a doctor or nurse as a slow infusion into a vein, usually over one to four hours. The dose, how often it is given and the length of treatment are decided by the doctor according to the infection and kidney function. The dose is lowered in people with reduced kidney function.

Interactions

Doripenem can sharply lower blood levels of Valproic Acid (Sodium Valproate), which may lead to seizures in people with epilepsy; these two are usually not used together. Probenecid can raise Doripenem levels. Tell the doctor about all your medicines, including blood thinners such as Warfarin.

Contraindications

• Allergy to Doripenem or other carbapenems (such as Meropenem or Imipenem).
• History of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to penicillins or cephalosporins.

Side Effects

Common effects include headache, nausea, diarrhoea, rash, itching and irritation or swelling at the drip site. Some people develop thrush (a fungal infection) in the mouth or vagina. Changes in liver blood tests can occur.

Get urgent medical help if there is swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, a widespread blistering rash, seizures, or severe watery or bloody diarrhoea during or after treatment, which can be a sign of a serious bowel infection.

Pregnancy and Lactation

There is limited information on use in pregnancy. It is used only if the doctor decides the benefit is greater than the risk. It is not known whether it passes into breast milk; the doctor will advise whether breastfeeding should continue.

Precautions and Warnings

Tell the doctor about any past allergy to antibiotics, kidney problems, epilepsy or other brain conditions. Doripenem is not recommended for pneumonia acquired on a breathing machine (ventilator). Long courses can allow resistant bacteria or fungi to grow. Inhaled use is not approved.

Overdose

Overdose is unlikely because it is given by health professionals. If too much is given, treatment is supportive, and the drug can be removed by dialysis.

Therapeutic Class

Carbapenem antibiotic (beta lactam antibacterial).

Storage

Store the unopened vials below 30°C, dry and away from light, as directed on the pack. Prepared solution is used within the time stated on the pack. Keep out of the reach of children.