Ertapenem
Ertapenem is a long-acting carbapenem antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections including complicated intra-abdominal infections, complicated skin and soft tissue infections, community-acquired pneumonia, and complicated urinary tract infections. It works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis and has broad-spectrum activity against gram-positive, gram-negative, and anaerobic bacteria.
A broad-spectrum carbapenem antibiotic for serious bacterial infections requiring IV/IM administration.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J01DH03
- RxNorm
- 325642
- Generic
- Ertapenem
- Class
- atc-j01
- Brands
- Invanz
- 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.
Treats complicated intra-abdominal infections, complicated skin and soft tissue infections, community-acquired pneumonia, complicated urinary tract infections, and acute pelvic infections.
Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, effective against a wide range of gram-positive, gram-negative, and anaerobic bacteria.
Administered intravenously or intramuscularly once daily. Use with caution in patients with penicillin allergy due to cross-reactivity. May cause seizures and other CNS adverse effects. Not active against MRSA or Enterococcus.
Official drug label
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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