Imipenem is a β-lactam antibiotic in the carbapenem subgroup and is soluble in aqueous solution at >5 mg/mL. Imipenem has been found to be effective against extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Enterobacteriaceae; a group of pathogenic microbes resistant to many first line beta-lactam antibiotics and certain cephalosporins.

TOKU-E offers two forms of imipenem: imipenem (I001) and imipenem w/ cilastatin (I002). Cilastatin is a chemical which inhibits the human enzyme dehydropeptidase which degrades imipenem.

CAS Number

74431-23-5

Molecular Formula

C₁₂H₁₇N₃O₄S · H₂O

Molecular Weight

317.36 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

β-lactams interfere with PBP (penicillin binding protein) activity involved in the final phase of peptidoglycan synthesis. PBP’s are enzymes which catalyze a pentaglycine crosslink between alanine and lysine residues providing additional strength to the cell wall. Without a pentaglycine crosslink, the integrity of the cell wall is severely compromised and ultimately leads to cell lysis and death. Resistance to β-lactams is commonly due to cells containing plasmid encoded β-lactamases. Like many members of the carbapenem subgroup, imipenem is highly resistant to β-lactamase activity.

Storage Conditions

-20 °C

Tariff Code

2941.90.5000

Spectrum

Imipenem is a broad spectrum antibiotic targeting a wide range of aerobic and anaerobic gram positive and gram negative bacteria.

Specifications: