Imipenem-cilastatin for the treatment of bacterial complications in the immunocompromised host

Abstract

Twenty-five immunocompromised patients with severe bacterial complications were enrolled in this study. Intravenous imipenem-cilastatin (1.5–4 gm/day) was administered initially, and after clinical improvement intramuscular administration (1–1.5 gm/day) was begun for a period of 2–13 days. Positive clinical results were achieved in 88% of patients and bacteriologic eradication was obtained in 72%. There were no significant adverse reactions. Side effects, pain and gluteal infiltration, occurred in only one patient after intramuscular administration and spontaneously improved after the end of therapy. Intramuscular administration of imipenem-cilastatin was shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of mild or moderate infections or as longer-term therapy in severe infections. A significant reduction in both hospital costs and the risk of IV administration may result.