Invanz

(Ertapenem Sodium)

The active ingredient in Invanz is ertapenem sodium. The mechanism of action of ertapenem involves inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins, which weakens the bacterial cell wall and leads to bacterial death. Invanz is active against many gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, as well as some anaerobic organisms, but it does not treat viral infections.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Invanz. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Invanz:

Invanz is given by a healthcare professional as a parenteral medicine, into a blood vessel or muscle.

It may be administered by intravenous infusion or intramuscular injection.

Intravenous doses are infused over approximately 30 minutes.

Intramuscular doses are injected into a large muscle and may be mixed with lidocaine as a diluent to reduce discomfort.

The usual adult dose is 1 g/day, usually given as a single dose.

Some mild or common side effects of Invanz include:

Diarrhea.

Nausea or vomiting.

Headache.

Abdominal pain.

Constipation.

Injection site pain, redness, itching (pruritus), or swelling (phlebitis).

Low blood pressure (hypotension).

Chest pain.

Swelling, redness, burning, itching, or irritation of the vagina (vaginitis).

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Invanz. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

Severe allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis. Symptoms include hives, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing.

Seizures or changes in mental status.

Severe or persistent diarrhea, which may indicate antibiotic-associated colitis.

Signs of nervous system disorders, such as confusion or altered consciousness.

These are not all of the possible adverse reactions of Invanz. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Invanz, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

A history of hypersensitivity to beta-lactam antibiotics, including penicillins or cephalosporins.

A history of seizures or other nervous system disorders.

A history of severe allergic reaction to antibiotics.

Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding or plans to breastfeed.

Dosage adjustment is required in patients with renal impairment.

Invanz is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to ertapenem or any component of the formulation. Intramuscular Invanz is also contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to lidocaine or other amide-type local anesthetics.

Invanz begins working shortly after administration by reaching therapeutic plasma concentrations. Symptom improvement may be seen within a few days, but it is important to complete the full prescribed course to fully clear the infection.

When Invanz is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

Valproic acid or divalproex sodium, because Invanz can significantly reduce valproic acid plasma concentrations during co-administration, increasing the risk of seizures.

Probenecid, because it reduces renal excretion of ertapenem and increases plasma concentrations, which may increase side effects.

Ertapenem should not be mixed with other medicines or with diluents containing dextrose.

Invanz is supplied as a single-use vial containing 1 g of ertapenem sodium powder for reconstitution with lidocaine injection (without epinephrine). Dosing frequency is once daily in most patients, with adjustments made for pediatric use or renal impairment.

Unreconstituted vials should be stored as directed in the product monograph. Reconstituted solutions must be used within the time limits specified by the manufacturer and may require refrigeration.

Invanz is manufactured by Merck.

Yes, it is available from many manufacturers of generic drugs.

Do not stop treatment early unless advised by your healthcare provider. Stopping Invanz too soon may allow the infection to return or worsen. Your healthcare professional will determine when therapy should end.

Invanz should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Small amounts of ertapenem may pass into breast milk, and your healthcare provider can help weigh the benefits and risks.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.