The Basics
What is Ertapenem?
Used to treat certain serious bacterial infections, including pneumonia and urinary tract, skin, diabetic foot, gynecological, pelvic, and abdominal infections. Also used for the prevention of infections following colorectal surgery.
Brand names for Ertapenem
Invanz
How Ertapenem is classified
Anti-Infective Agents, Antibacterial Agents, Carbapenems
Ertapenem During Pregnancy
Ertapenem pregnancy category
Category BNote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Ertapenem while pregnant
N/A
Taking Ertapenem While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Ertapenem?
Limited information indicates that ertapenem produces low levels in milk that are not expected to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. Occasionally disruption of the infant’s gastrointestinal flora, resulting in diarrhea or thrush has been reported with beta-lactams, but these effects have not been adequately evaluated. Ertapenem is acceptable in nursing mothers.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Limited information indicates that ertapenem produces low levels in milk that are not expected to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. Occasionally disruption of the infant’s gastrointestinal flora, resulting in diarrhea or thrush has been reported with beta-lactams, but these effects have not been adequately evaluated. Ertapenem is acceptable in nursing mothers.
Possible effects of Ertapenem on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Ertapenem
None listed
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. FDA Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. NDA 21-337. Clinical pharmacology and biopharmaceutics reviews. 2008;37-40. Accessed 09/19/2008. http://www.fda.gov/cder/foi/nda/2001/21337_Invanz_biopharmr.pdf
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
