Ertapenem Versus Meropenem/Imipenem for ESBL+ Gram-negative Infections

An Open-label, Randomized Equivalence Trial and Cost-effectiveness Analysis of Ertapenem Versus Other Carbapenems for Treatment of Extended -Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL)-Producing Gram-negative Bacterial Infections

Adult patients with ESBL-producing Gram negative infections are randomized to receive ertapenem or meropenem/imipenem. Clinical and microbiological responses between both groups are compared.

Ertapenem is active against ESBL-producing Gram negative bacteria. This study is conducted to determine if ertapenem is effective against ESBL-producing Gram negative infections similar to meropenem/imipenem.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Hospitalized patients aged >18 years with documented ESBL +ve GNB infection
• Receive meropenem or imipenem/cilastatin as empiric antibiotic therapy

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having been treated with meropenem or imipenem/cilastatin for longer than 72 hours
• Have active P. aeruginosa co-infection
• Pregnancy or breast feeding
• Allergy to carbapenems