relebactam

Relebactam is a novel beta-lactamase inhibitor that is used in combination with imipenem, an antibiotic. This combination is indicated for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI) and complicated intra-abdominal infections (cIAI) in adult patients who have limited or no alternative treatment options. Beta-lactamase enzymes are produced by some bacteria and can inactivate beta-lactam antibiotics like imipenem, rendering them ineffective. Relebactam works by binding to and inhibiting these beta-lactamase enzymes, thereby protecting imipenem from degradation and restoring its antibacterial activity.

The development of relebactam was driven by the increasing threat of antimicrobial resistance, particularly the rise of Gram-negative bacteria producing extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) and carbapenemases. By inhibiting a broad range of these enzymes, the imipenem-relebactam combination provides a treatment option for infections caused by otherwise resistant pathogens. Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of this combination in treating serious infections. The most common side effects observed include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and pyrexia. Relebactam is administered intravenously as part of the combination therapy. Its addition to imipenem represents an important advancement in combating difficult-to-treat bacterial infections.