Description
🦠💧 Faropenem 50 mg/5 mL Suspension: A Versatile Oral Carbapenem Antibiotic
Faropenem is a broad‑spectrum, orally active carbapenem antibiotic formulated as a suspension of 50 mg per 5 mL. It is particularly valued for its stability in acidic environments, enabling effective absorption through the gastrointestinal tract. Faropenem’s chemical structure grants it resistance to many β‑lactamases, making it active against a wide range of gram‑positive, gram‑negative, and anaerobic pathogens.
🔬 Mechanism of Action
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Inhibition of cell‑wall synthesis: Faropenem binds to penicillin‑binding proteins (PBPs) on the bacterial cell wall, blocking the final transpeptidation step of peptidoglycan cross‑linking.
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Bactericidal effect: Disruption of cell‑wall integrity leads to osmotic lysis and bacterial death.
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β‑lactamase stability: The drug’s structure resists hydrolysis by many common β‑lactamases (including ESBLs), preserving its activity.
📋 Microbiological Spectrum
Effective against:
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Gram‑positive cocci: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA)
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Gram‑negative bacilli: Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis
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Anaerobes: Bacteroides fragilis and other Bacteroides species
It is not reliable against Pseudomonas aeruginosa or most carbapenem‑resistant organisms.
📌 Indications
Faropenem 50 mg/5 mL suspension is indicated for:
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Acute bacterial sinusitis
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Acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis
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Community‑acquired pneumonia (mild to moderate)
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Pharyngitis and tonsillitis
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Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (cystitis)
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Skin and soft tissue infections (impetigo, cellulitis)
💊 Dosage & Administration
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Children (2–12 years): 15 mg/kg/day, divided into two or three doses daily, for 7–14 days, depending on infection severity.
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Adolescents & Adults: When used off‑label in adults, typical dosage is 300 mg to 600 mg daily, divided two to three times. However, adult dosing should follow local guidelines.
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Administration: Shake well before each use. Measure with an oral dosing syringe for accuracy. Can be taken with or without food.
⚠️ Precautions & Warnings
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Allergy alert: Contraindicated in patients with a history of β‑lactam hypersensitivity (penicillins, cephalosporins, carbapenems).
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Gastrointestinal disease: Use cautiously in patients with a history of colitis. Antibiotic‑associated diarrhea, including C. difficile infection, may occur.
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Renal impairment: Dose adjustment may be required for severe renal dysfunction.
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Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Limited data—use only if clearly needed and after risk–benefit assessment.
🤒 Side Effects
Common (≥1%):
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Diarrhea
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Nausea/vomiting
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Abdominal pain
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Headache
Less common/serious:
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Hypersensitivity reactions: rash, urticaria, angioedema
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Seizures (rare, in patients with CNS disorders or high serum levels)
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Hepatic enzyme elevations
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Clostridioides difficile–associated diarrhea
Discontinue therapy and seek medical attention if severe allergic or neurological symptoms occur.
🔄 Drug Interactions
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Probenecid: May increase serum levels of faropenem—use with caution.
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Oral contraceptives: Antibiotics can reduce efficacy; advise additional barrier protection.
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Other nephrotoxic agents: Monitor renal function when co‑administered.
🧊 Storage & Handling
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Store suspension at 2–8 °C (refrigerate); do not freeze.
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Discard any unused portion 14 days after reconstitution.
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Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children.
📝 Conclusion
Faropenem 50 mg/5 mL suspension offers a convenient oral carbapenem option for pediatric and select adult bacterial infections. Its broad spectrum, oral bioavailability, and β‑lactamase stability make it a valuable tool in combating resistant pathogens. As with all antibiotics, responsible use—guided by culture and sensitivity data—is essential to preserve its efficacy and reduce the emergence of resistance.
Note: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
