ADVERSE REACTIONS SECTION.

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS. The following serious adverse reactions are described in greater detail in the Warnings and Precautions section.Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Seizure Potential [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] Increased Seizure Potential Due to Interaction with Valproic Acid [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] Clostridioides difficile-Associated Diarrhea (CDAD) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]Development of Drug-Resistant Bacteria [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)] Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Seizure Potential [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] Increased Seizure Potential Due to Interaction with Valproic Acid [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] Clostridioides difficile-Associated Diarrhea (CDAD) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]. Development of Drug-Resistant Bacteria [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)] The most frequently occurring adverse reactions (>=0.2%) in adults were phlebitis, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, rash, pain injection site, fever, hypotension, seizures, erythema at injection site, dizziness, pruritus, vein induration, urticaria, somnolence (6.1).The most frequently occurring adverse reactions (>1%) in pediatric patients greater than or equal to months of age were diarrhea, rash, phlebitis, gastroenteritis, vomiting, IV site irritation, urine discoloration (6.1).The most frequently occurring adverse reactions (>1%) in neonates to months of age were convulsions, diarrhea, oliguria/anuria, oral candidiasis, rash, tachycardia (6.1).To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Merck Sharp Dohme Corp., subsidiary of Merck Co., Inc., at 1-877-888-4231 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.. The most frequently occurring adverse reactions (>=0.2%) in adults were phlebitis, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, rash, pain injection site, fever, hypotension, seizures, erythema at injection site, dizziness, pruritus, vein induration, urticaria, somnolence (6.1).. The most frequently occurring adverse reactions (>1%) in pediatric patients greater than or equal to months of age were diarrhea, rash, phlebitis, gastroenteritis, vomiting, IV site irritation, urine discoloration (6.1).. The most frequently occurring adverse reactions (>1%) in neonates to months of age were convulsions, diarrhea, oliguria/anuria, oral candidiasis, rash, tachycardia (6.1).. 6.1Clinical Trials Experience. Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.. Adult PatientsDuring clinical investigations 1,723 patients were treated with PRIMAXIN. Table shows the incidence of adverse reactions reported during the clinical investigations of adult patients treated with PRIMAXIN.Table 4: Incidence (%)Adverse reactions with an incidence >=0.2% of PRIMAXIN-treated adult patients. of Adverse Reactions Reported During Clinical Investigations of Adult Patients Treated with PRIMAXINBody SystemAdverse ReactionsFrequency (%)Local Administration sitePhlebitis/thrombophlebitis3.1%Pain at the injection site0.7%Erythema at the injection site0.4%Vein induration0.2%GastrointestinalNausea2.0%Diarrhea1.8%Vomiting1.5%SkinRash0.9%Pruritus0.3%Urticaria0.2%VascularHypotension0.4%Body as WholeFever0.5%Nervous systemSeizures0.4%Dizziness0.3%Somnolence0.2%Additional adverse reactions reported in less than 0.2% of the patients or reported since the drug was marketed are listed within each body system in order of decreasing severity [see Table 5].Table 5: Additional Adverse Reactions Occurring in Less than 0.2% of Adult Patients Listed within Each Body System in Order of Decreasing SeverityBody SystemAdverse ReactionsGastrointestinalPseudomembranous Colitis (the onset of Pseudomembranous colitis symptoms), Hemorrhagic Colitis GastroenteritisAbdominal PainGlossitisTongue PapillarHypertrophyHeartburnPharyngeal PainIncreased SalivationCNSEncephalopathyConfusionMyoclonusParesthesiaVertigoHeadacheSpecial SensesHearing LossTinnitusRespiratoryChest DiscomfortDyspneaHyperventilationThoracic Spine PainCardiovascularPalpitationsTachycardiaSkinErythema MultiformeAngioneurotic EdemaFlushingCyanosisHyperhidrosisSkin Texture ChangesCandidiasisPruritus VulvaeLocal Administration siteInfused vein infectionBody as WholePolyarthralgiaAsthenia/WeaknessRenalOliguria/AnuriaPolyuria. Adverse Laboratory ChangesThe following adverse laboratory changes were reported during clinical trials:Hepatic: Increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT or SGPT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST or SGOT), alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)Hemic: Increased eosinophils, positive Coombs test, increased WBC, increased platelets, decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit, increased monocytes, abnormal prothrombin time, increased lymphocytes, increased basophilsElectrolytes: Decreased serum sodium, increased potassium, increased chlorideRenal: Increased BUN, creatinineUrinalysis: Presence of urine protein, urine red blood cells, urine white blood cells, urine casts, urine bilirubin, and urine urobilinogen.. Pediatric PatientsTable 6: Incidence (%)Adverse reactions that occurred in >1% of PRIMAXIN-treated pediatric patients (greater than or equal to months of age) of Adverse Reactions Reported During Clinical Investigations of Pediatric Patients Greater Than or Equal to Months of Age Treated with PRIMAXINBody SystemAdverse ReactionsFrequency (%)Local Administration SitePhlebitis2.2%Intravenous Site Irritation1.1%GastrointestinalDiarrhea3.9%Gastroenteritis1.1%Vomiting1.1%SkinRash2.2%RenalUrine Discoloration1.1%Table 7: Incidence (%)Adverse reactions that occurred in >1% of PRIMAXIN-treated pediatric patients (neonates to months of age) of Adverse Reactions Reported During Clinical Investigations of Pediatric Patients Neonates to Months of Age Treated with PRIMAXINBody SystemAdverse ReactionsFrequency (%)GastrointestinalDiarrhea3%CNSConvulsions5.9%CardiovascularTachycardia1.5%SkinRash1.5%Body as WholeOral Candidiasis1.5%RenalOliguria/Anuria2.2%. Adverse Laboratory ChangesThe following adverse laboratory changes were reported in studies of 178 pediatric patients months of age: increased AST (SGOT), decreased hemoglobin/hematocrit, increased platelets, increased eosinophils, increased ALT (SGPT), increased urine protein, decreased neutrophils.The following adverse laboratory changes were reported in studies of 135 patients (neonates to months of age): increased eosinophils, increased AST (SGPT), increased serum creatinine, increased/decreased platelet count, increased/decreased bilirubin, increased ALT (SGPT), increased alkaline phosphatase, increased/decreased hematocrit.. 6.2Postmarketing Experience. The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of PRIMAXIN. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish causal relationship to drug exposure.Table 8: Adverse Reactions Identified During Post Approval Use of PRIMAXINBody SystemAdverse ReactionsGastrointestinalHepatitis (including fulminant hepatitis)Hepatic failureJaundiceStaining of the teeth and/or tongueHematologicPancytopeniaBone marrow depressionThrombocytopeniaNeutropeniaLeukopeniaHemolytic anemiaCNSTremorPsychic disturbances including hallucinationsDyskinesiaAgitationSpecial SensesTaste perversionSkinStevens-Johnson syndromeToxic epidermal necrolysisBody as whole Drug feverRenalAcute renal failureUrine discoloration. Adverse Laboratory ChangesAdverse laboratory changes reported since the drug was marketed were:Hematologic: agranulocytosis.Examination of published literature and spontaneous adverse reactions reports suggested similar spectrum of adverse reactions in adult and pediatric patients.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SECTION.

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY. 12.1 Mechanism of Action. PRIMAXIN is combination of imipenem and cilastatin. Imipenem is penem antibacterial drug [see Microbiology (12.4)]. Cilastatin is renal dehydropeptidase inhibitor that limits the renal metabolism of imipenem.. 12.3 Pharmacokinetics. Intravenous infusion of PRIMAXIN over 20 minutes results in peak plasma levels of imipenem antimicrobial activity that range from 21 to 58 mcg/mL for the 500 mg dose, and from 41 to 83 mcg/mL for the 1000 mg dose. At these doses, plasma levels of imipenem antimicrobial activity decline to below mcg/mL or less in to hours. Peak plasma levels of cilastatin following 20-minute intravenous infusion of PRIMAXIN range from 31 to 49 mcg/mL for the 500 mg dose, and from 56 to 88 mcg/mL for the 1000 mg dose.. DistributionThe binding of imipenem to human serum proteins is approximately 20% and that of cilastatin is approximately 40%.Imipenem has been shown to penetrate into human tissues, including vitreous humor, aqueous humor, lung, peritoneal fluid, CSF, bone, interstitial fluid, skin, and fascia. As there are no adequate and well-controlled studies of imipenem treatment in these additional body sites, the clinical significance of these tissue concentration data is unknown.After 1 gram dose of PRIMAXIN, the following average levels of imipenem were measured (usually at hour post dose except where indicated) in the tissues and fluids listed in Table 9:Table 9: Average Levels of ImipenemTissue or FluidNImipenem Level mcg/mL or mcg/gRangeVitreous Humor33.4 (3.5 hours post dose)2.88-3.6Aqueous Humor52.99 (2 hours post dose)2.4-3.9Lung Tissue85.6 (median)3.5-15.5Sputum12.1--Pleural122.0--Peritoneal1223.9 S.D.+-5.3 (2 hours post dose)--Bile25.3 (2.25 hours post dose)4.6-6.0CSF (uninflamed)51.0 (4 hours post dose)0.26-2.0CSF (inflamed)72.6 (2 hours post dose)0.5-5.5Fallopian Tubes113.6--Endometrium111.1--Myometrium15.0--Bone102.60.4-5.4Interstitial Fluid1216.410.0-22.6Skin124.4NAFascia124.4NA. MetabolismImipenem, when administered alone, is metabolized in the kidneys by dehydropeptidase I, resulting in relatively low levels in urine. Cilastatin, an inhibitor of this enzyme, effectively prevents renal metabolism of imipenem so that when imipenem and cilastatin sodium are given concomitantly, adequate antibacterial levels of imipenem are achieved in the urine.. EliminationThe plasma half-life of each component is approximately hour. Approximately 70% of the administered imipenem is recovered in the urine within 10 hours after which no further urinary excretion is detectable. Urine concentrations of imipenem in excess of 10 mcg/mL can be maintained for up to hours with PRIMAXIN at the 500 mg dose. Approximately 70% of the cilastatin sodium dose is recovered in the urine within 10 hours of administration of PRIMAXIN. PRIMAXIN is hemodialyzable [see Overdosage (10)]. No accumulation of imipenem/cilastatin in plasma or urine is observed with regimens administered as frequently as every hours in patients with normal renal function.. Specific Populations. Geriatric PatientsIn healthy elderly volunteers (65 to 75 years of age with normal renal function for their age), the pharmacokinetics of single dose of imipenem 500 mg and cilastatin 500 mg administered intravenously over 20 minutes are consistent with those expected in subjects with slight renal impairment for which no dosage alteration is considered necessary. The mean plasma half-lives of imipenem and cilastatin are 91+-7 minutes and 69+-15 minutes, respectively. Multiple dosing has no effect on the pharmacokinetics of either imipenem or cilastatin, and no accumulation of imipenem/cilastatin is observed.. Pediatric PatientsDoses of 25 mg/kg/dose in patients months to <3 years of age, and 15 mg/kg/dose in patients 3-12 years of age were associated with mean trough plasma concentrations of imipenem of 1.1+-0.4 mcg/mL and 0.6+-0.2 mcg/mL following multiple 60-minute infusions, respectively; trough urinary concentrations of imipenem were in excess of 10 mcg/mL for both doses. These doses have provided adequate plasma and urine concentrations for the treatment of non-CNS infections.In dose-ranging study of smaller premature infants (670-1,890 g) in the first week of life, dose of 20 mg/kg q12h by 15-30 minutes infusion was associated with mean peak and trough plasma imipenem concentrations of 43 mcg/mL and 1.7 mcg/mL after multiple doses, respectively. However, moderate accumulation of cilastatin in neonates may occur following multiple doses of PRIMAXIN. The safety of this accumulation is unknown.. 12.4 Microbiology. Mechanism of ActionPRIMAXIN is combination of imipenem and cilastatin. The bactericidal activity of imipenem results from the inhibition of cell wall synthesis. Its greatest affinity is for penicillin binding proteins (PBPs) 1A, 1B, 2, 4, and of Escherichia coli, and 1A, 1B, 2, and of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The lethal effect is related to binding to PBP and PBP 1B.Imipenem has high degree of stability in the presence of beta-lactamases, both penicillinases and cephalosporinases produced by Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. It is potent inhibitor of beta-lactamases from certain Gram-negative bacteria which are inherently resistant to most beta-lactam antibacterials, e.g., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia spp., and Enterobacter spp.. ResistanceImipenem is inactive in vitro against Enterococcus faecium, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and some isolates of Burkholderia cepacia. Methicillin-resistant staphylococci should be reported as resistant to imipenem.. Interaction with Other AntimicrobialsIn vitro tests show imipenem to act synergistically with aminoglycoside antibacterials against some isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antimicrobial ActivityImipenem has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections [see Indications and Usage (1)]. Aerobic bacteria Gram-positive bacteria Enterococcus faecalis Staphylococcus aureus Staphylococcus epidermidis Streptococcus agalactiae (Group streptococci) Streptococcus pneumoniae Streptococcus pyogenes Gram-negative bacteria Acinetobacter spp. Citrobacter spp. Enterobacter spp. Escherichia coli Gardnerella vaginalis Haemophilus influenzae Haemophilus parainfluenzae Klebsiella spp. Morganella morganii Proteus vulgaris Providencia rettgeri Pseudomonas aeruginosa Serratia spp., including S. marcescens Anaerobic bacteria Gram-positive bacteria Bifidobacterium spp. Clostridium spp. Eubacterium spp. Peptococcus spp. Peptostreptococcus spp. Propionibacterium spp. Gram-negative bacteria Bacteroides spp., including B. fragilis Fusobacterium spp. The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown. At least 90 percent of the following bacteria exhibit an in vitro minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) less than or equal to the susceptible breakpoint for imipenem against isolates of similar genus or organism group. However, the efficacy of imipenem in treating clinical infections due to these bacteria has not been established in adequate and well-controlled clinical trials.Aerobic bacteria Gram-positive bacteria Bacillus spp. Listeria monocytogenes Nocardia spp. Staphylococcus saprophyticus Group streptococci Group streptococci Viridans group streptococci Gram-negative bacteria Aeromonas hydrophila Alcaligenes spp. Capnocytophaga spp. Haemophilus ducreyi Neisseria gonorrhoeae Pasteurella spp. Providencia stuartiiAnaerobic bacteria Prevotella bivia Prevotella disiens Prevotella melaninogenica Veillonella spp.. Gram-positive bacteria. Enterococcus faecalis. Staphylococcus aureus. Staphylococcus epidermidis. Streptococcus agalactiae (Group streptococci). Streptococcus pneumoniae. Streptococcus pyogenes. Gram-negative bacteria. Acinetobacter spp.. Citrobacter spp. Enterobacter spp. Escherichia coli. Gardnerella vaginalis. Haemophilus influenzae. Haemophilus parainfluenzae. Klebsiella spp. Morganella morganii. Proteus vulgaris. Providencia rettgeri. Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Serratia spp., including S. marcescens Gram-positive bacteria. Bifidobacterium spp.. Clostridium spp.. Eubacterium spp.. Peptococcus spp.. Peptostreptococcus spp.. Propionibacterium spp.. Gram-negative bacteria. Bacteroides spp., including B. fragilis Fusobacterium spp. Gram-positive bacteria. Bacillus spp.. Listeria monocytogenes. Nocardia spp.. Staphylococcus saprophyticus. Group streptococci. Group streptococci. Viridans group streptococci. Gram-negative bacteria. Aeromonas hydrophila. Alcaligenes spp.. Capnocytophaga spp.. Haemophilus ducreyi. Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Pasteurella spp.. Providencia stuartii. Prevotella bivia. Prevotella disiens. Prevotella melaninogenica. Veillonella spp.. Susceptibility TestingFor specific information regarding susceptibility test methods, interpretive criteria, and associated test methods and quality control standards recognized by FDA for this drug, please see: https://www.fda.gov/STIC.

DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION SECTION.

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION. The dosage of PRIMAXIN in adult patients should be based on suspected or confirmed pathogen susceptibility (2.1).For adult patients with normal renal function (creatinine clearance of greater than or equal to 90 mL/min), the recommended dosage regimens are: 500 mg every hours OR 1000 mg every hours OR 1000 mg every hours (2.1).See full prescribing information for dosage recommendations in pediatric patients (2.2).A reduction in dose must be made for patient with creatinine clearance of less than 90 mL/min (2.3).Patients with creatinine clearances of less than 15 mL/min should not receive PRIMAXIN unless hemodialysis is instituted within 48 hours (2.4).Reconstitute PRIMAXIN vial with appropriate diluent and dilute the reconstituted suspension with an appropriate infusion solution before administering by intravenous infusion (2.5).. The dosage of PRIMAXIN in adult patients should be based on suspected or confirmed pathogen susceptibility (2.1).. For adult patients with normal renal function (creatinine clearance of greater than or equal to 90 mL/min), the recommended dosage regimens are: 500 mg every hours OR 1000 mg every hours OR 1000 mg every hours (2.1).. See full prescribing information for dosage recommendations in pediatric patients (2.2).. reduction in dose must be made for patient with creatinine clearance of less than 90 mL/min (2.3).. Patients with creatinine clearances of less than 15 mL/min should not receive PRIMAXIN unless hemodialysis is instituted within 48 hours (2.4).. Reconstitute PRIMAXIN vial with appropriate diluent and dilute the reconstituted suspension with an appropriate infusion solution before administering by intravenous infusion (2.5).. 2.1Dosage in Adults. For Intravenous Injection OnlyThe dosage of PRIMAXIN in adult patients should be based on suspected or confirmed pathogen susceptibility as shown in Table below. The dosage recommendations for PRIMAXIN represent the quantity of imipenem to be administered. An equivalent amount of cilastatin is also present in the solution.These doses should be used for patients with creatinine clearance of greater than or equal to 90 mL/min. reduction in dose must be made for patients with creatinine clearance less than 90 mL/min as shown in Table [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)]. Recommend that the maximum total daily dosage not exceed g/day.Administer 500 mg by intravenous infusion over 20 to 30 minutes.Administer 1000 mg by intravenous infusion over 40 to 60 minutes.In patients who develop nausea during the infusion, the rate of infusion may be slowed.Table 1: Dosage of PRIMAXIN in Adult Patients with Creatinine Clearance Greater than or Equal to 90 mL/minSuspected or Proven Pathogen SusceptibilityDosage of PRIMAXINIf the infection is suspected or proven to be due to susceptible bacterial species500 mg every hoursOR 1000 mg every hoursIf the infection is suspected or proven to be due to bacterial species with intermediate susceptibility [see Microbiology (12.4)] 1000 mg every hours. The dosage of PRIMAXIN in adult patients should be based on suspected or confirmed pathogen susceptibility as shown in Table below. The dosage recommendations for PRIMAXIN represent the quantity of imipenem to be administered. An equivalent amount of cilastatin is also present in the solution.. These doses should be used for patients with creatinine clearance of greater than or equal to 90 mL/min. reduction in dose must be made for patients with creatinine clearance less than 90 mL/min as shown in Table [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)]. Recommend that the maximum total daily dosage not exceed g/day.. Administer 500 mg by intravenous infusion over 20 to 30 minutes.. Administer 1000 mg by intravenous infusion over 40 to 60 minutes.. In patients who develop nausea during the infusion, the rate of infusion may be slowed.. 2.2Dosage in Pediatric Patients. PRIMAXIN is not recommended in pediatric patients with CNS infections because of the risk of seizures [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4)]. PRIMAXIN is not recommended in pediatric patients <30 kg with renal impairment, as no data are available [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4)]. Based on studies in adults, the maximum total daily dose in pediatric patients should not exceed g/day [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. The recommended dosage for pediatric patients with non-CNS infections is shown in Table below:Table 2: Recommended PRIMAXIN Dosage in Pediatric Patients for Non-CNS InfectionsAgeDose (mg/kg) Doses less than or equal to 500 mg should be given by intravenous infusion over 20 to 30 minutes Doses greater than 500 mg should be given by intravenous infusion over 40 to 60 minutes Recommend that the maximum total daily dosage not exceed 4g/day Frequency (hours)Greater than or equal to Months of Age 15-25 mg/kgEvery hoursLess than or equal to months of age (Greater than or equal to 1,500 body weight)4 weeks to months of age25 mg/kgEvery hours1 to weeks of age25 mg/kgEvery hoursLess than week of age25 mg/kgEvery 12 hours. 2.3Dosage in Adult Patients with Renal Impairment. Patients with creatinine clearance less than 90 mL/min require dosage reduction of PRIMAXIN as indicated in Table 3. The serum creatinine should represent steady state of renal function. Use the Cockcroft-Gault method described below to calculate the creatinine clearance:Males:(weight in kg) (140-age in years) (72) serum creatinine (mg/100 mL)Females:(0.85) (value calculated for males)Table 3: Dosage of PRIMAXIN for Adult Patients in Various Renal Function Groups Based on Estimated Creatinine Clearance (CLcr) Creatinine clearance (mL/min) Greater than or equal to 90Less than 90 to greater than or equal to 60Less than 60 to greater than or equal to 30Less than 30 to greater than or equal to 15Dosage of PRIMAXINAdminister doses less than or equal to 500 mg by intravenous infusion over 20 to 30 minutes. Discard unused portion of the infusion solution. Administer doses greater than 500 mg by intravenous infusion over 40 to 60 minutes. In patients who develop nausea during the infusion, the rate of infusion may be slowed.If the infection is suspected or proven to be due to susceptible bacterial species:500 mg every hours400 mg every hours300 mg every hours200 mg every hoursOR1000 mg every hours500 mg every hours500 mg every hours500 mg every 12 hoursDosage of PRIMAXIN If the infection is suspected or proven to be due to bacterial species with intermediate susceptibility [see Microbiology (12.4)]:1000 mg every hours750 mg every hours500 mg every hours500 mg every 12 hoursIn patients with creatinine clearances of less than 30 to greater than or equal to 15 mL/min, there may be an increased risk of seizures [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)]. Patients with creatinine clearance less than 15 mL/min should not receive PRIMAXIN unless hemodialysis is instituted within 48 hours. There is inadequate information to recommend usage of PRIMAXIN for patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis.. 2.4Dosage in Hemodialysis Patients. When treating patients with creatinine clearances of less than 15 mL/min who are undergoing hemodialysis, use the dosage recommendations for patients with creatinine clearances of less than 30 to greater than or equal to 15 mL/min in Table above [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)]. Both imipenem and cilastatin are cleared from the circulation during hemodialysis. The patient should receive PRIMAXIN after hemodialysis and at intervals timed from the end of that hemodialysis session. Dialysis patients, especially those with background CNS disease, should be carefully monitored; for patients on hemodialysis, PRIMAXIN is recommended only when the benefit outweighs the potential risk of seizures [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. 2.5Reconstitution and Preparation of PRIMAXIN Solution for Intravenous Administration. PRIMAXIN VialsDo not use diluents containing benzyl alcohol to reconstitute PRIMAXIN for administration to neonates because it has been associated with toxicity in neonates. While toxicity has not been demonstrated in pediatric patients greater than three months of age, small pediatric patients in this age range may also be at risk for benzyl alcohol toxicity.Contents of the vials must be reconstituted by adding approximately 10 mL of the appropriate diluent to the vial. List of appropriate diluents are as follows: 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection5% Dextrose Injection5% Dextrose and 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection5% Dextrose Injection with 0.225% or 0.45% saline solution Reconstituted Solutions of PRIMAXIN range from colorless to yellow. Variations of color within this range do not affect the potency of the product.The reconstituted suspension must not be administered by direct Intravenous InfusionAfter reconstitution, shake vial well and transfer the resulting suspension to 100 mL of an appropriate infusion solution before administering by intravenous infusion.Repeat transfer of the resulting suspension with an additional 10 mL of infusion solution to ensure complete transfer of vial contents to the infusion solution. Agitate the resulting mixture until clear.Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.Discard unused portion of the infusion solution where applicable.. Do not use diluents containing benzyl alcohol to reconstitute PRIMAXIN for administration to neonates because it has been associated with toxicity in neonates. While toxicity has not been demonstrated in pediatric patients greater than three months of age, small pediatric patients in this age range may also be at risk for benzyl alcohol toxicity.. Contents of the vials must be reconstituted by adding approximately 10 mL of the appropriate diluent to the vial. List of appropriate diluents are as follows: 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection5% Dextrose Injection5% Dextrose and 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection5% Dextrose Injection with 0.225% or 0.45% saline solution 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection. 5% Dextrose Injection. 5% Dextrose and 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection. 5% Dextrose Injection with 0.225% or 0.45% saline solution. Reconstituted Solutions of PRIMAXIN range from colorless to yellow. Variations of color within this range do not affect the potency of the product.. The reconstituted suspension must not be administered by direct Intravenous Infusion. After reconstitution, shake vial well and transfer the resulting suspension to 100 mL of an appropriate infusion solution before administering by intravenous infusion.. Repeat transfer of the resulting suspension with an additional 10 mL of infusion solution to ensure complete transfer of vial contents to the infusion solution. Agitate the resulting mixture until clear.. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.. Discard unused portion of the infusion solution where applicable.. 2.6Storage of Reconstituted Solutions. Vials (After Reconstitution)PRIMAXIN, as supplied in single dose vials and reconstituted with the appropriate diluents [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)], maintains satisfactory potency for hours at room temperature or for 24 hours under refrigeration (5C). Do not freeze solutions of PRIMAXIN.. PRIMAXIN, as supplied in single dose vials and reconstituted with the appropriate diluents [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)], maintains satisfactory potency for hours at room temperature or for 24 hours under refrigeration (5C). Do not freeze solutions of PRIMAXIN.. 2.7Incompatibility and Compatibility of PRIMAXIN with other Antibacterial Drugs. Do not mix PRIMAXIN with, or physically add to, other antibacterial drugs.PRIMAXIN may be administered concomitantly with other antibacterial drugs, such as aminoglycosides.. Do not mix PRIMAXIN with, or physically add to, other antibacterial drugs.. PRIMAXIN may be administered concomitantly with other antibacterial drugs, such as aminoglycosides.

DRUG INTERACTIONS SECTION.

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS. Ganciclovir: Generalized seizures have been reported in patients who received ganciclovir. Do not co-administer unless benefit outweighs risk (7.1).Probenecid: Concomitant administration of PRIMAXIN and probenecid results in increases in the plasma level and half-life of imipenem. Concomitant administration is not recommended (7.2).Valproic acid/divalproex sodium: Concomitant use with PRIMAXIN is generally not recommended. Consider other antibacterial drugs to treat infections in patients whose seizures are well-controlled on valproic acid or divalproex sodium (5.3, 7.3).. Ganciclovir: Generalized seizures have been reported in patients who received ganciclovir. Do not co-administer unless benefit outweighs risk (7.1).. Probenecid: Concomitant administration of PRIMAXIN and probenecid results in increases in the plasma level and half-life of imipenem. Concomitant administration is not recommended (7.2).. Valproic acid/divalproex sodium: Concomitant use with PRIMAXIN is generally not recommended. Consider other antibacterial drugs to treat infections in patients whose seizures are well-controlled on valproic acid or divalproex sodium (5.3, 7.3).. 7.1Ganciclovir. Generalized seizures have been reported in patients who received ganciclovir and PRIMAXIN. These drugs should not be used concomitantly with PRIMAXIN unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.. 7.2Probenecid. Concomitant administration of PRIMAXIN and probenecid results in increases in the plasma level and half-life of imipenem. Therefore, it is not recommended that probenecid be given concomitantly with PRIMAXIN.. 7.3Valproic Acid. Case reports in the literature have shown that co-administration of carbapenems, including PRIMAXIN, to patients receiving valproic acid or divalproex sodium results in reduction in valproic acid concentrations. The valproic acid concentrations may drop below the therapeutic range as result of this interaction, therefore increasing the risk of breakthrough seizures. Although the mechanism of this interaction is unknown, data from in vitro and animal studies suggest that carbapenems may inhibit the hydrolysis of valproic acids glucuronide metabolite (VPA-g) back to valproic acid, thus decreasing the serum concentrations of valproic acid [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]. The concomitant use of PRIMAXIN and valproic acid/divalproex sodium is generally not recommended. Antibacterials other than carbapenems should be considered to treat infections in patients whose seizures are well-controlled on valproic acid or divalproex sodium.

INDICATIONS & USAGE SECTION.

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE. PRIMAXIN for intravenous use is combination of imipenem, penem antibacterial, and cilastatin, renal dehydropeptidase inhibitor, indicated for the treatment of the following serious infections caused by designated susceptible bacteria:Lower respiratory tract infections. (1.1)Urinary tract infections. (1.2)Intra-abdominal infections. (1.3)Gynecologic infections. (1.4)Bacterial septicemia. (1.5)Bone and joint infections. (1.6)Skin and skin structure infections. (1.7)Endocarditis. (1.8)Limitations of Use:PRIMAXIN is not indicated in patients with meningitis because safety and efficacy have not been established (1.9).PRIMAXIN is not recommended in pediatric patients with CNS infections because of the risk of seizures (1.9).PRIMAXIN is not recommended in pediatric patients weighing less than 30 kg with impaired renal function (1.9).Usage:To reduce the development of drug resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of PRIMAXIN and other antibacterial drugs, PRIMAXIN should be used only to treat infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria (1.10).. Lower respiratory tract infections. (1.1). Urinary tract infections. (1.2). Intra-abdominal infections. (1.3). Gynecologic infections. (1.4). Bacterial septicemia. (1.5). Bone and joint infections. (1.6). Skin and skin structure infections. (1.7). Endocarditis. (1.8). PRIMAXIN is not indicated in patients with meningitis because safety and efficacy have not been established (1.9).. PRIMAXIN is not recommended in pediatric patients with CNS infections because of the risk of seizures (1.9).. PRIMAXIN is not recommended in pediatric patients weighing less than 30 kg with impaired renal function (1.9).. 1.1 Lower Respiratory Tract Infections. PRIMAXIN for intravenous use is indicated for the treatment of lower respiratory tract infections caused by susceptible strains of Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase-producing isolates), Acinetobacter species, Enterobacter species, Escherichia coli, Haemophilus influenzae, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Klebsiella species, Serratia marcescens. 1.2Urinary Tract Infections (complicated and uncomplicated). PRIMAXIN is indicated for the treatment of urinary tract infections (complicated and uncomplicated) caused by susceptible strains of Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase-producing isolates), Enterobacter species, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Morganella morganii, Proteus vulgaris, Providencia rettgeri, Pseudomonas aeruginosa. 1.3Intra-Abdominal Infections. PRIMAXIN is indicated for the treatment of intra-abdominal infections caused by susceptible strains of Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase-producing isolates), Staphylococcus epidermidis, Citrobacter species, Enterobacter species, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Morganella morganii, Proteus species, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bifidobacterium species, Clostridium species, Eubacterium species, Peptococcus species, Peptostreptococcus species, Propionibacterium species, Bacteroides species including B. fragilis, Fusobacterium species. 1.4Gynecologic Infections. PRIMAXIN is indicated for the treatment of gynecologic infections caused by susceptible strains of Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase-producing isolates), Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus agalactiae (Group streptococci), Enterobacter species, Escherichia coli, Gardnerella vaginalis, Klebsiella species, Proteus species, Bifidobacterium species, Peptococcus species, Peptostreptococcus species, Propionibacterium species, Bacteroides species including B. fragilis. 1.5Bacterial Septicemia. PRIMAXIN is indicated for the treatment of bacterial septicemia caused by susceptible strains of Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase-producing isolates), Enterobacter species, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia species, Bacteroides species including B. fragilis. 1.6Bone and Joint Infections. PRIMAXIN is indicated for the treatment of bone and joint infections caused by susceptible strains of Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase-producing isolates), Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterobacter species, Pseudomonas aeruginosa. 1.7Skin and Skin Structure Infections. PRIMAXIN is indicated for the treatment of skin and skin structure infections caused by susceptible strains of Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase-producing isolates), Staphylococcus epidermidis, Acinetobacter species, Citrobacter species, Enterobacter species, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, Morganella morganii, Proteus vulgaris, Providencia rettgeri, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia species, Peptococcus species, Peptostreptococcus species, Bacteroides species including B. fragilis, Fusobacterium species. 1.8Endocarditis. PRIMAXIN is indicated for the treatment of endocarditis caused by susceptible strains of Staphylococcus aureus (penicillinase-producing isolates).. 1.9Limitations of Use. PRIMAXIN is not indicated in patients with meningitis because safety and efficacy have not been established.PRIMAXIN is not recommended in pediatric patients with CNS infections because of the risk of seizures [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Warnings and Precautions (5.2), and Use in Specific Populations (8.4)]. PRIMAXIN is not recommended in pediatric patients less than 30 kg with impaired renal function, as no data are available [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4), and Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. Periodic assessment of organ system functions, including renal, hepatic and hematopoietic, is advisable during prolonged therapy.. PRIMAXIN is not indicated in patients with meningitis because safety and efficacy have not been established.. PRIMAXIN is not recommended in pediatric patients with CNS infections because of the risk of seizures [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Warnings and Precautions (5.2), and Use in Specific Populations (8.4)]. PRIMAXIN is not recommended in pediatric patients less than 30 kg with impaired renal function, as no data are available [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4), and Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. Periodic assessment of organ system functions, including renal, hepatic and hematopoietic, is advisable during prolonged therapy.. 1.10Usage. To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of PRIMAXIN and other antibacterial drugs, PRIMAXIN should be used only to treat infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.

INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS SECTION.

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION. Advise patients that allergic reactions, including serious allergic reactions, could occur and that serious reactions require immediate treatment. They should report any previous hypersensitivity reactions to PRIMAXIN, other carbapenems, beta-lactams or other allergens.Counsel patients that antibacterial drugs including PRIMAXIN should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When PRIMAXIN is prescribed to treat bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel better early in the course of therapy, the medication should be taken exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may (1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by PRIMAXIN or other antibacterial drugs in the future.Counsel patients to inform their physician:if they have central nervous system disorders such as stroke or history of seizures. Seizures have been reported during treatment with PRIMAXIN and with closely related antibacterial drugs.if they are taking valproic acid or sodium valproate. Valproic acid concentrations in the blood may drop below the therapeutic range upon co-administration with PRIMAXIN. If treatment with PRIMAXIN is necessary and continued, alternative or supplemental anti-convulsant medication to prevent and/or treat seizures may be needed. Advise patients that diarrhea is common problem caused by antibacterial drugs and usually resolves when the drug is discontinued. Sometimes, frequent watery or bloody diarrhea may occur and may be sign of more serious intestinal infection. If severe watery or bloody diarrhea develops, patients should contact their healthcare provider.. Advise patients that allergic reactions, including serious allergic reactions, could occur and that serious reactions require immediate treatment. They should report any previous hypersensitivity reactions to PRIMAXIN, other carbapenems, beta-lactams or other allergens.. Counsel patients that antibacterial drugs including PRIMAXIN should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When PRIMAXIN is prescribed to treat bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel better early in the course of therapy, the medication should be taken exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may (1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by PRIMAXIN or other antibacterial drugs in the future.. Counsel patients to inform their physician:if they have central nervous system disorders such as stroke or history of seizures. Seizures have been reported during treatment with PRIMAXIN and with closely related antibacterial drugs.if they are taking valproic acid or sodium valproate. Valproic acid concentrations in the blood may drop below the therapeutic range upon co-administration with PRIMAXIN. If treatment with PRIMAXIN is necessary and continued, alternative or supplemental anti-convulsant medication to prevent and/or treat seizures may be needed. if they have central nervous system disorders such as stroke or history of seizures. Seizures have been reported during treatment with PRIMAXIN and with closely related antibacterial drugs.. if they are taking valproic acid or sodium valproate. Valproic acid concentrations in the blood may drop below the therapeutic range upon co-administration with PRIMAXIN. If treatment with PRIMAXIN is necessary and continued, alternative or supplemental anti-convulsant medication to prevent and/or treat seizures may be needed.. Advise patients that diarrhea is common problem caused by antibacterial drugs and usually resolves when the drug is discontinued. Sometimes, frequent watery or bloody diarrhea may occur and may be sign of more serious intestinal infection. If severe watery or bloody diarrhea develops, patients should contact their healthcare provider.

MICROBIOLOGY SECTION.

12.4 Microbiology. Mechanism of ActionPRIMAXIN is combination of imipenem and cilastatin. The bactericidal activity of imipenem results from the inhibition of cell wall synthesis. Its greatest affinity is for penicillin binding proteins (PBPs) 1A, 1B, 2, 4, and of Escherichia coli, and 1A, 1B, 2, and of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The lethal effect is related to binding to PBP and PBP 1B.Imipenem has high degree of stability in the presence of beta-lactamases, both penicillinases and cephalosporinases produced by Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. It is potent inhibitor of beta-lactamases from certain Gram-negative bacteria which are inherently resistant to most beta-lactam antibacterials, e.g., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia spp., and Enterobacter spp.. ResistanceImipenem is inactive in vitro against Enterococcus faecium, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and some isolates of Burkholderia cepacia. Methicillin-resistant staphylococci should be reported as resistant to imipenem.. Interaction with Other AntimicrobialsIn vitro tests show imipenem to act synergistically with aminoglycoside antibacterials against some isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antimicrobial ActivityImipenem has been shown to be active against most isolates of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections [see Indications and Usage (1)]. Aerobic bacteria Gram-positive bacteria Enterococcus faecalis Staphylococcus aureus Staphylococcus epidermidis Streptococcus agalactiae (Group streptococci) Streptococcus pneumoniae Streptococcus pyogenes Gram-negative bacteria Acinetobacter spp. Citrobacter spp. Enterobacter spp. Escherichia coli Gardnerella vaginalis Haemophilus influenzae Haemophilus parainfluenzae Klebsiella spp. Morganella morganii Proteus vulgaris Providencia rettgeri Pseudomonas aeruginosa Serratia spp., including S. marcescens Anaerobic bacteria Gram-positive bacteria Bifidobacterium spp. Clostridium spp. Eubacterium spp. Peptococcus spp. Peptostreptococcus spp. Propionibacterium spp. Gram-negative bacteria Bacteroides spp., including B. fragilis Fusobacterium spp. The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown. At least 90 percent of the following bacteria exhibit an in vitro minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) less than or equal to the susceptible breakpoint for imipenem against isolates of similar genus or organism group. However, the efficacy of imipenem in treating clinical infections due to these bacteria has not been established in adequate and well-controlled clinical trials.Aerobic bacteria Gram-positive bacteria Bacillus spp. Listeria monocytogenes Nocardia spp. Staphylococcus saprophyticus Group streptococci Group streptococci Viridans group streptococci Gram-negative bacteria Aeromonas hydrophila Alcaligenes spp. Capnocytophaga spp. Haemophilus ducreyi Neisseria gonorrhoeae Pasteurella spp. Providencia stuartiiAnaerobic bacteria Prevotella bivia Prevotella disiens Prevotella melaninogenica Veillonella spp.. Gram-positive bacteria. Enterococcus faecalis. Staphylococcus aureus. Staphylococcus epidermidis. Streptococcus agalactiae (Group streptococci). Streptococcus pneumoniae. Streptococcus pyogenes. Gram-negative bacteria. Acinetobacter spp.. Citrobacter spp. Enterobacter spp. Escherichia coli. Gardnerella vaginalis. Haemophilus influenzae. Haemophilus parainfluenzae. Klebsiella spp. Morganella morganii. Proteus vulgaris. Providencia rettgeri. Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Serratia spp., including S. marcescens Gram-positive bacteria. Bifidobacterium spp.. Clostridium spp.. Eubacterium spp.. Peptococcus spp.. Peptostreptococcus spp.. Propionibacterium spp.. Gram-negative bacteria. Bacteroides spp., including B. fragilis Fusobacterium spp. Gram-positive bacteria. Bacillus spp.. Listeria monocytogenes. Nocardia spp.. Staphylococcus saprophyticus. Group streptococci. Group streptococci. Viridans group streptococci. Gram-negative bacteria. Aeromonas hydrophila. Alcaligenes spp.. Capnocytophaga spp.. Haemophilus ducreyi. Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Pasteurella spp.. Providencia stuartii. Prevotella bivia. Prevotella disiens. Prevotella melaninogenica. Veillonella spp.. Susceptibility TestingFor specific information regarding susceptibility test methods, interpretive criteria, and associated test methods and quality control standards recognized by FDA for this drug, please see: https://www.fda.gov/STIC.

PHARMACOKINETICS SECTION.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics. Intravenous infusion of PRIMAXIN over 20 minutes results in peak plasma levels of imipenem antimicrobial activity that range from 21 to 58 mcg/mL for the 500 mg dose, and from 41 to 83 mcg/mL for the 1000 mg dose. At these doses, plasma levels of imipenem antimicrobial activity decline to below mcg/mL or less in to hours. Peak plasma levels of cilastatin following 20-minute intravenous infusion of PRIMAXIN range from 31 to 49 mcg/mL for the 500 mg dose, and from 56 to 88 mcg/mL for the 1000 mg dose.. DistributionThe binding of imipenem to human serum proteins is approximately 20% and that of cilastatin is approximately 40%.Imipenem has been shown to penetrate into human tissues, including vitreous humor, aqueous humor, lung, peritoneal fluid, CSF, bone, interstitial fluid, skin, and fascia. As there are no adequate and well-controlled studies of imipenem treatment in these additional body sites, the clinical significance of these tissue concentration data is unknown.After 1 gram dose of PRIMAXIN, the following average levels of imipenem were measured (usually at hour post dose except where indicated) in the tissues and fluids listed in Table 9:Table 9: Average Levels of ImipenemTissue or FluidNImipenem Level mcg/mL or mcg/gRangeVitreous Humor33.4 (3.5 hours post dose)2.88-3.6Aqueous Humor52.99 (2 hours post dose)2.4-3.9Lung Tissue85.6 (median)3.5-15.5Sputum12.1--Pleural122.0--Peritoneal1223.9 S.D.+-5.3 (2 hours post dose)--Bile25.3 (2.25 hours post dose)4.6-6.0CSF (uninflamed)51.0 (4 hours post dose)0.26-2.0CSF (inflamed)72.6 (2 hours post dose)0.5-5.5Fallopian Tubes113.6--Endometrium111.1--Myometrium15.0--Bone102.60.4-5.4Interstitial Fluid1216.410.0-22.6Skin124.4NAFascia124.4NA. MetabolismImipenem, when administered alone, is metabolized in the kidneys by dehydropeptidase I, resulting in relatively low levels in urine. Cilastatin, an inhibitor of this enzyme, effectively prevents renal metabolism of imipenem so that when imipenem and cilastatin sodium are given concomitantly, adequate antibacterial levels of imipenem are achieved in the urine.. EliminationThe plasma half-life of each component is approximately hour. Approximately 70% of the administered imipenem is recovered in the urine within 10 hours after which no further urinary excretion is detectable. Urine concentrations of imipenem in excess of 10 mcg/mL can be maintained for up to hours with PRIMAXIN at the 500 mg dose. Approximately 70% of the cilastatin sodium dose is recovered in the urine within 10 hours of administration of PRIMAXIN. PRIMAXIN is hemodialyzable [see Overdosage (10)]. No accumulation of imipenem/cilastatin in plasma or urine is observed with regimens administered as frequently as every hours in patients with normal renal function.. Specific Populations. Geriatric PatientsIn healthy elderly volunteers (65 to 75 years of age with normal renal function for their age), the pharmacokinetics of single dose of imipenem 500 mg and cilastatin 500 mg administered intravenously over 20 minutes are consistent with those expected in subjects with slight renal impairment for which no dosage alteration is considered necessary. The mean plasma half-lives of imipenem and cilastatin are 91+-7 minutes and 69+-15 minutes, respectively. Multiple dosing has no effect on the pharmacokinetics of either imipenem or cilastatin, and no accumulation of imipenem/cilastatin is observed.. Pediatric PatientsDoses of 25 mg/kg/dose in patients months to <3 years of age, and 15 mg/kg/dose in patients 3-12 years of age were associated with mean trough plasma concentrations of imipenem of 1.1+-0.4 mcg/mL and 0.6+-0.2 mcg/mL following multiple 60-minute infusions, respectively; trough urinary concentrations of imipenem were in excess of 10 mcg/mL for both doses. These doses have provided adequate plasma and urine concentrations for the treatment of non-CNS infections.In dose-ranging study of smaller premature infants (670-1,890 g) in the first week of life, dose of 20 mg/kg q12h by 15-30 minutes infusion was associated with mean peak and trough plasma imipenem concentrations of 43 mcg/mL and 1.7 mcg/mL after multiple doses, respectively. However, moderate accumulation of cilastatin in neonates may occur following multiple doses of PRIMAXIN. The safety of this accumulation is unknown.

PREGNANCY SECTION.

8.1 Pregnancy. Risk SummaryAvailable data from small number of postmarketing cases with PRIMAXIN use in pregnancy are not sufficient to identify any drug-associated risks for major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes.Developmental toxicity studies with imipenem and cilastatin sodium (alone or in combination) administered to mice, rats, rabbits, and monkeys at doses 0.4 to 2.9 times the recommended human dose (RHD), (based on body surface area), showed no drug-induced fetal malformations.Embryofetal development studies with imipenem/cilastatin administered to cynomolgus monkeys at doses similar to the RHD (based on body surface area) showed an increase in embryonic loss (see Data).The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. All pregnancies have background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. The background risk of major birth defects is 2-4% and of miscarriage is 15-20% of clinically recognized pregnancies within the general population. Data. Animal DataReproductive toxicity studies with imipenem and cilastatin (alone or in combination) administered to mice, rats, and rabbits showed no evidence of effects on embryofetal (mice, rats and rabbits) or pre/postnatal (rats) development.Imipenem was administered intravenously to rats (gestation days (GD) to 17) and rabbits (GD to 18) at doses up to 900 and 60 mg/kg/day, respectively, approximately 2.9 and 0.4 times the RHD (based on body surface area). Cilastatin was administered subcutaneously to rats (GD to 17) and intravenously to rabbits (GD to 18) at doses up to 1000 and 300 mg/kg/day, respectively, approximately 3.2 and 1.9 times the RHD (based on body surface area). Imipenem/cilastatin was administered intravenously to mice at doses up to 320 mg/kg/day (GD to 15). In two separate studies, imipenem/cilastatin was administered to rats (GD to 17 and GD 15 to day 21 postpartum) both intravenously at doses up to 80 mg/kg/day and subcutaneously at 320 mg/kg/day. The higher dose is approximately equal to the RHD (based on body surface area).Imipenem/cilastatin administered intravenously to pregnant cynomolgus monkeys during organogenesis at 100 mg/kg/day, approximately 0.6 times the RHD (based on body surface area), at an infusion rate mimicking human clinical use, was not associated with fetal malformations, but there was an increase in embryonic loss relative to controls. Imipenem/cilastatin administered to pregnant cynomolgus monkeys during organogenesis at 40 mg/kg/day by bolus intravenous injection caused significant maternal toxicity including death and embryofetal loss.

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS SECTION.

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS. Renal Impairment: Dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with renal impairment (2.3).Adult patients with creatinine clearances of less than or equal to 30 mL/min, whether or not undergoing hemodialysis, had higher risk of seizure activity than those without impairment of renal function (5.2).Therefore, close adherence to the dosing guidelines and regular monitoring of creatinine clearance for these patients is recommended (8.6). Renal Impairment: Dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with renal impairment (2.3).Adult patients with creatinine clearances of less than or equal to 30 mL/min, whether or not undergoing hemodialysis, had higher risk of seizure activity than those without impairment of renal function (5.2).Therefore, close adherence to the dosing guidelines and regular monitoring of creatinine clearance for these patients is recommended (8.6). Adult patients with creatinine clearances of less than or equal to 30 mL/min, whether or not undergoing hemodialysis, had higher risk of seizure activity than those without impairment of renal function (5.2).. Therefore, close adherence to the dosing guidelines and regular monitoring of creatinine clearance for these patients is recommended (8.6).. 8.1 Pregnancy. Risk SummaryAvailable data from small number of postmarketing cases with PRIMAXIN use in pregnancy are not sufficient to identify any drug-associated risks for major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes.Developmental toxicity studies with imipenem and cilastatin sodium (alone or in combination) administered to mice, rats, rabbits, and monkeys at doses 0.4 to 2.9 times the recommended human dose (RHD), (based on body surface area), showed no drug-induced fetal malformations.Embryofetal development studies with imipenem/cilastatin administered to cynomolgus monkeys at doses similar to the RHD (based on body surface area) showed an increase in embryonic loss (see Data).The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. All pregnancies have background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. The background risk of major birth defects is 2-4% and of miscarriage is 15-20% of clinically recognized pregnancies within the general population. Data. Animal DataReproductive toxicity studies with imipenem and cilastatin (alone or in combination) administered to mice, rats, and rabbits showed no evidence of effects on embryofetal (mice, rats and rabbits) or pre/postnatal (rats) development.Imipenem was administered intravenously to rats (gestation days (GD) to 17) and rabbits (GD to 18) at doses up to 900 and 60 mg/kg/day, respectively, approximately 2.9 and 0.4 times the RHD (based on body surface area). Cilastatin was administered subcutaneously to rats (GD to 17) and intravenously to rabbits (GD to 18) at doses up to 1000 and 300 mg/kg/day, respectively, approximately 3.2 and 1.9 times the RHD (based on body surface area). Imipenem/cilastatin was administered intravenously to mice at doses up to 320 mg/kg/day (GD to 15). In two separate studies, imipenem/cilastatin was administered to rats (GD to 17 and GD 15 to day 21 postpartum) both intravenously at doses up to 80 mg/kg/day and subcutaneously at 320 mg/kg/day. The higher dose is approximately equal to the RHD (based on body surface area).Imipenem/cilastatin administered intravenously to pregnant cynomolgus monkeys during organogenesis at 100 mg/kg/day, approximately 0.6 times the RHD (based on body surface area), at an infusion rate mimicking human clinical use, was not associated with fetal malformations, but there was an increase in embryonic loss relative to controls. Imipenem/cilastatin administered to pregnant cynomolgus monkeys during organogenesis at 40 mg/kg/day by bolus intravenous injection caused significant maternal toxicity including death and embryofetal loss.. 8.2Lactation. Risk SummaryThere are insufficient data on the presence of imipenem/cilastatin in human milk, and no data on the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mothers clinical need for PRIMAXIN and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from PRIMAXIN or from the underlying maternal condition.. 8.4 Pediatric Use. Use of PRIMAXIN in pediatric patients is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled trials of PRIMAXIN in adults and clinical studies in pediatric patients [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. PRIMAXIN is not recommended in pediatric patients with CNS infections because of the risk of seizures.PRIMAXIN is not recommended in pediatric patients less than 30 kg with renal impairment, as no data are available.. 8.5 Geriatric Use. Of the approximately 3600 subjects >=18 years of age in clinical studies of PRIMAXIN, including postmarketing studies, approximately 2800 received PRIMAXIN. Of the subjects who received PRIMAXIN, data are available on approximately 800 subjects who were 65 and over, including approximately 300 subjects who were 75 and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.This drug is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of toxic reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function.No dosage adjustment is required based on age [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Dosage adjustment in the case of renal impairment is necessary [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)]. 8.6Renal Impairment. Dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with renal impairment [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)]. Adult patients with creatinine clearances of less than or equal to 30 mL/min, whether or not undergoing hemodialysis, had higher risk of seizure activity than those without impairment of renal function [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Therefore, close adherence to the dosing guidelines and regular monitoring of creatinine clearance for these patients is recommended.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS SECTION.

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS. Hypersensitivity Reactions: Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity (anaphylactic) reactions have been reported in patients receiving therapy with beta-lactams. If an allergic reaction to PRIMAXIN occurs, discontinue the drug immediately (5.1).Seizure Potential: Seizures and other CNS adverse reactions, such as confusional states and myoclonic activity, have been reported during treatment with PRIMAXIN. If focal tremors, myoclonus, or seizures occur, patients should be evaluated neurologically, placed on anticonvulsant therapy if not already instituted, and the dosage of PRIMAXIN re-examined to determine whether it should be decreased, or the antibacterial drug discontinued (5.2).Increased Seizure Potential Due to Interaction with Valproic Acid: Co-administration of PRIMAXIN, to patients receiving valproic acid or divalproex sodium results in reduction in valproic acid concentrations. The valproic acid concentrations may drop below the therapeutic range as result of this interaction, therefore increasing the risk of breakthrough seizures. The concomitant use of PRIMAXIN and valproic acid/divalproex sodium is generally not recommended (5.3, 7.3).Clostridioides difficile-Associated Diarrhea (CDAD): has been reported with use of PRIMAXIN and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Evaluate if diarrhea occurs (5.4).. Hypersensitivity Reactions: Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity (anaphylactic) reactions have been reported in patients receiving therapy with beta-lactams. If an allergic reaction to PRIMAXIN occurs, discontinue the drug immediately (5.1).. Seizure Potential: Seizures and other CNS adverse reactions, such as confusional states and myoclonic activity, have been reported during treatment with PRIMAXIN. If focal tremors, myoclonus, or seizures occur, patients should be evaluated neurologically, placed on anticonvulsant therapy if not already instituted, and the dosage of PRIMAXIN re-examined to determine whether it should be decreased, or the antibacterial drug discontinued (5.2).. Increased Seizure Potential Due to Interaction with Valproic Acid: Co-administration of PRIMAXIN, to patients receiving valproic acid or divalproex sodium results in reduction in valproic acid concentrations. The valproic acid concentrations may drop below the therapeutic range as result of this interaction, therefore increasing the risk of breakthrough seizures. The concomitant use of PRIMAXIN and valproic acid/divalproex sodium is generally not recommended (5.3, 7.3).. Clostridioides difficile-Associated Diarrhea (CDAD): has been reported with use of PRIMAXIN and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Evaluate if diarrhea occurs (5.4).. 5.1Hypersensitivity Reactions. Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity (anaphylactic) reactions have been reported in patients receiving therapy with beta-lactams. These reactions are more likely to occur in individuals with history of sensitivity to multiple allergens. There have been reports of individuals with history of penicillin hypersensitivity who have experienced severe hypersensitivity reactions when treated with another beta-lactam. Before initiating therapy with PRIMAXIN, careful inquiry should be made concerning previous hypersensitivity reactions to penicillins, cephalosporins, other beta-lactams and other allergens. If an allergic reaction to PRIMAXIN occurs, discontinue the drug immediately. Serious anaphylactic reactions require immediate emergency treatment as clinically indicated.. 5.2Seizure Potential. Seizures and other CNS adverse experiences, such as confusional states and myoclonic activity, have been reported during treatment with PRIMAXIN, especially when recommended dosages were exceeded [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.2)]. These experiences have occurred most commonly in patients with CNS disorders (e.g., brain lesions or history of seizures) and/or compromised renal function [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)]. However, there have been reports of CNS adverse experiences in patients who had no recognized or documented underlying CNS disorder or compromised renal function.Anticonvulsant therapy should be continued in patients with known seizure disorders. If focal tremors, myoclonus, or seizures occur, patients should be evaluated neurologically, placed on anticonvulsant therapy if not already instituted, and the dosage of PRIMAXIN re-examined to determine whether it should be decreased, or the antibacterial drug discontinued.. 5.3Increased Seizure Potential Due to Interaction with Valproic Acid. Case reports in the literature have shown that co-administration of carbapenems, including PRIMAXIN, to patients receiving valproic acid or divalproex sodium results in reduction in valproic acid concentrations. The valproic acid concentrations may drop below the therapeutic range as result of this interaction, therefore increasing the risk of breakthrough seizures. Increasing the dose of valproic acid or divalproex sodium may not be sufficient to overcome this interaction. The concomitant use of PRIMAXIN and valproic acid/divalproex sodium is generally not recommended. Antibacterials other than carbapenems should be considered to treat infections in patients whose seizures are well controlled on valproic acid or divalproex sodium. If administration of PRIMAXIN is necessary, supplemental anti-convulsant therapy should be considered [see Drug Interactions (7.3)]. Close adherence to the recommended dosage and dosage schedules is urged, especially in patients with known factors that predispose to convulsive activity.. 5.4Clostridioides difficile-Associated Diarrhea (CDAD). Clostridioides difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including PRIMAXIN, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.C. difficile produces toxins and which contribute to the development of CDAD.Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibacterial drug use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents.If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibacterial drug use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibacterial drug treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.. 5.5Development of Drug-Resistant Bacteria. As with other antibacterial drugs, prolonged use of PRIMAXIN may result in overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms. Repeated evaluation of the patients condition is essential. If superinfection occurs during therapy, appropriate measures should be taken.Prescribing PRIMAXIN in the absence of proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria.