Drug interactions
Imipenem / cilastatin + Probenecid
Severity: Moderate
Imipenem / cilastatin and Probenecid: moderate interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Probenecid reduces renal tubular secretion of imipenem, raising its plasma levels and prolonging its half-life. The gain is modest and unpredictable, and it may raise the risk of adverse effects such as seizures.
What this interaction means in plain words
Imipenem / cilastatin and Probenecid can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Probenecid inhibits renal tubular secretion of imipenem.
What to do
Avoid routine coadministration, as there is no clear benefit. If used, monitor for neurotoxicity, especially in renal impairment.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Probenecid
- Ketorolac intranasal + Probenecid Contraindicated
- Ketorolac + Probenecid Contraindicated
- Baricitinib + Probenecid Major
- Ceftazidime / avibactam + Probenecid Major
- Methotrexate + Probenecid Major
- Pralatrexate + Probenecid Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Imipenem / cilastatin with Probenecid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Imipenem / cilastatin and Probenecid can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Probenecid reduces renal tubular secretion of imipenem, raising its plasma levels and prolonging its half-life. The gain is modest and unpredictable, and it may raise the risk of adverse effects such as seizures.
How serious is the interaction between Imipenem / cilastatin and Probenecid?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid routine coadministration, as there is no clear benefit. If used, monitor for neurotoxicity, especially in renal impairment.
What other medicines interact with Probenecid?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Probenecid with, for example, Ketorolac intranasal, Ketorolac, Baricitinib. The full list is on the Probenecid page.
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