Cilastatin
Cilastatin is a renal dehydropeptidase inhibitor used in combination with imipenem as an injectable antibacterial medication. It works by preventing the breakdown of imipenem in the kidneys, allowing the antibiotic to remain active longer in the body. This combination is used to treat serious bacterial infections when other antibiotics may not be effective.
Cilastatin is combined with imipenem to treat serious infections by preventing kidney enzymes from breaking down the antibiotic.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 2540
- Generic
- Cilastatin
- Class
- unclassified
- Brands
- Recarbrio, Primaxin
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of serious bacterial infections including intra-abdominal infections, lower respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, gynecologic infections, bone and joint infections, and skin and soft tissue infections caused by susceptible organisms.
Cilastatin inhibits renal dehydropeptidase, an enzyme in the kidneys that normally metabolizes and inactivates imipenem. By blocking this enzyme, cilastatin prolongs the half-life of imipenem, allowing higher and more sustained antibiotic levels at the infection site.
This medication is administered intravenously and should only be used under medical supervision. Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, rash, and injection site reactions. Dosage must be adjusted for patients with kidney impairment. Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy