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Invanz

Generic Name: Ertapenem (pronounced [er-tapen-em])

Drug Class: Carbapenems

What is Invanz?

Invanz, an antibacterial, is prescribed to treat serious infections that are caused by bacteria. These include those in the skin and lungs, as well as the stomach, pelvis, urinary tract, and intestine.

It is used in the prevention of infections after certain types of surgeries. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of Invanz.

Side effects of Invanz

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergy: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling in your lips, face, throat, or tongue

Invanz may cause serious side effects. If you experience:

  • A seizure (convulsions);
  • Severe abdominal pain bloody or watery diarrhea (even months after the last dose)

Side effects that are common include:

  • Nausea, vomiting;
  • Diarrhea;
  • Headache
  • Pain or swelling where the injection is given.

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Report side effects by calling the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Do not use it other than as prescribed. Inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking or if there is a medical condition or allergy.

Before you take this drug

Invanz should be avoided if:

  • Meropenem;
  • Imipenem;
  • Any type of cephalosporin antibiotic (cefdinir, cephalexin, Keflex Omnicef, and others);
  • Penicillin and similar antibiotics

Invanz should not be injected into muscles if the patient is allergic to numbing medicines such as lidocaine and novocaine.

If you've ever:

  • Kidney disease
  • Epilepsy, or any other seizure disorder
  • A head injury or brain tumor.

Inform your doctor whether you are breastfeeding or pregnant. Children younger than three months of age should not be given this product.

How to take Invanz?

Read all the instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow all the directions. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Invanz can be injected directly into the muscle or vein. Please read and adhere to all instructions for use. For any inquiries or assistance, contact either your pharmacist or physician. Only prepare an injection when you're ready to administer it. If the medication is cloudy or looks different, call your pharmacist.

Make sure that you know how to mix the medicine properly with a liquid, or diluent. Also, be aware of how to store it. Only use the liquid diluent that your pharmacist or doctor has prescribed. Before measuring a dosage, shake the mixture thoroughly. Continue to use this medication even if you notice a rapid improvement in your symptoms. If you skip doses, your infection may become resistant to the medication. Invanz does not treat viruses, such as the flu or a common cold.

This medicine should not be shared with anyone else, even if the other person has similar symptoms. Keep powders unmixed at a temperature between 15C and 30C away from heat, moisture, and humidity. A mixture of Invanz for muscle injection should be administered within one hour.

The Invanz mixture and dilute solution for injecting into veins can be kept at room temperature for 6 hours or in the refrigerator for 24 hours. The mixture should be used within four hours of removing it from the refrigerator. Never reuse a syringe or needle. Put them into a "sharps container" that is puncture-proof and follows local or state laws. Avoid putting them in the reach of pets and children.

What happens if I overdose?

If you forget to take a dosage, call your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.

What should be avoided?

Ask your doctor before taking any anti-diarrhoea medication. Diarrhea can be an indication of a serious infection.

Interaction with other drug

Inform your doctor of all other medications you are taking, including:

  • Divalproex;
  • Valproic acid;
  • Probenecid.

The list below is not exhaustive. Invanz may be affected by other drugs, such as prescription or over-the-counter medicines and vitamin and herb products. This list does not include all possible drug interactions.