piperacillin + clavulanate

Piperacillin + clavulanate is a combination antibacterial agent consisting of the broad-spectrum ureidopenicillin piperacillin and the beta-lactamase inhibitor clavulanic acid (clavulanate). Piperacillin exerts its bactericidal effect by binding to and inhibiting penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), which are essential for bacterial cell wall synthesis. Clavulanate acts as a suicide inhibitor of various beta-lactamase enzymes, which are produced by certain bacteria to degrade beta-lactam antibiotics. By inhibiting these enzymes, clavulanate protects piperacillin from degradation, thereby extending its spectrum of activity to include beta-lactamase-producing strains. This combination is primarily used for the treatment of serious systemic and local infections, including respiratory tract, urinary tract, and intra-abdominal infections. While the combination of piperacillin and tazobactam is more globally prevalent, piperacillin + clavulanate is available and marketed in specific regional pharmaceutical markets, such as India.

Brand names

PipraclavPotcllav-PBiopiper-C

Other names

piperacillin/clavulanic acidpiperacillin sodium and potassium clavulanate