What is a major side effect of carbapenems?

Carbapenems are a class of antibiotics that are broadly effective against a wide range of bacteria, particularly those that are resistant to other antibiotics. A notable side effect associated with carbapenems is the potential to cause seizures, especially in individuals who have a history of seizures or those with renal impairment.

The risk of seizures is primarily attributed to imipenem, one of the carbapenem antibiotics. This risk increases in the context of higher dosages and reduced renal function, as impaired clearance can lead to elevated drug levels in the body. The neurotoxic effect can manifest as seizures due to the central nervous system penetration of the drug and its interaction with neural pathways.

Understanding this side effect is crucial for clinicians who prescribe carbapenems, as it helps in identifying high-risk patients and monitoring them appropriately during treatment. In contrast, while carbapenems can impact various organ systems, the risk of seizure is a distinctive and prominent concern that necessitates careful consideration in clinical decision-making.