imipenem-cilastatin + meropenem

This represents a comparison of two distinct carbapenem antibiotics rather than a single combination product. Imipenem-cilastatin (Primaxin) combines imipenem (a carbapenem antibiotic) with cilastatin (a dehydropeptidase inhibitor that prevents the breakdown of imipenem). Meropenem (Merrem) is another carbapenem antibiotic that does not require a dehydropeptidase inhibitor. Both medications are broad-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotics used to treat serious bacterial infections. Clinical trials have directly compared these two treatment options for various infections including complicated skin and skin structure infections, pneumonia, and other severe bacterial infections.

Brand names

Primaxin + Merrem