Carbapenems: A Short Review about their Current Status

Abstract

In this review, we summarize the current “state of the art” of carbapenem antibiotics and their role in our antimicrobial armamentarium. Among the beta-lactams currently available, carbapenems are unique because they are relatively resistant to hydrolysis by most beta-lactamases. Herein, we described the cost effectiveness, safety, and advantages of carbapenems as compared to other antibiotics. We also highlight important features of the carbapenems that are presently in clinical use: imipenem-cilastatin, meropenem, ertapenem, doripenem, panipenem-betamipron, and biapenem. In closing, we emphasize some major challenges related to oral formulatuion of carbapenems and different strategies to overcome these challenges.