What does it do?
Ertapenem is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. It may also be used before a prostate biopsy to prevent serious infections.
Before you start
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
How is it given?
Ertapenem is given as an infusion into a vein, or as an injection into a muscle. It is usually given to you by a health professional.
What if you forget a dose?
Contact your health professional as soon as possible. Usually, the missed dose is given as soon as possible, and treatment continued as directed.
Can you take other medicines?
Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.
What side effects might you notice?
| Side Effects | Recommended action |
|---|---|
|
Severe or persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain Skin rash |
Tell your doctor |
|
Stomach upset Headache |
Tell your doctor if troublesome |
If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.
This leaflet contains important, but not all, information about this medicine.
Prepared by the MyMedicines Committee at Christchurch Hospital, Te Whatu Ora - Waitaha, New Zealand. August 2023
For more general information about this sheet and its contents, see: What does a My Medicines sheet cover?
Te Reo Māori
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About My Medicines
My Medicines Patient Information Leaflets (PILs) contain important, but not all, information about the medicines they describe.
For more information about the sheets, see: What does a My Medicines sheet cover?
My Medicines is developed by a team at Te Whatu Ora – Waitaha. Our team is made up of doctors, pharmacists, and a non-medical person to help us keep to plain language. We also discuss our information with specialist health professionals or groups when needed