Table of Contents
- What is Cilastatin Sodium?
- How Does Cilastatin Sodium Work?
- Medical Uses of Cilastatin Sodium
- How is Cilastatin Sodium Administered?
- Current Clinical Trials
- Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations
- Use in Special Populations
What is Cilastatin Sodium?
Cilastatin Sodium is a medication that is typically used in combination with other antibiotics, particularly imipenem[1]. It is not an antibiotic itself, but rather a drug that helps enhance the effectiveness of certain antibiotics. Cilastatin Sodium is often referred to simply as “cilastatin” in medical contexts[2].
How Does Cilastatin Sodium Work?
Cilastatin Sodium works by inhibiting an enzyme in the kidneys called dehydropeptidase-I. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down certain antibiotics, particularly imipenem. By inhibiting this enzyme, cilastatin allows the antibiotic to remain active in the body for a longer period, increasing its effectiveness in fighting bacterial infections[1].
Medical Uses of Cilastatin Sodium
Cilastatin Sodium is primarily used in combination with other antibiotics to treat various types of bacterial infections. Some of the specific conditions it may be used to treat include:
- Complicated Urinary Tract Infections (cUTI): These are urinary tract infections that are more difficult to treat, often due to structural abnormalities or other complicating factors[3].
- Acute Pyelonephritis: This is a serious kidney infection that often requires hospitalization[3].
- Hospital-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (HABP): This is a type of pneumonia that develops during a hospital stay[4].
- Ventilator-Associated Bacterial Pneumonia (VABP): This is pneumonia that develops in patients who are on mechanical ventilation[4].
- Complicated Intra-Abdominal Infections (cIAI): These are infections within the abdomen that are more severe and often require surgical intervention[4].
How is Cilastatin Sodium Administered?
Cilastatin Sodium is typically administered intravenously (IV), meaning it’s given directly into a vein. It’s usually given in combination with other antibiotics, most commonly imipenem. The dosage and duration of treatment can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the patient’s kidney function[1].
In clinical trials, the medication has been administered in various ways:
- As a 60-minute IV infusion, given every 6 hours[1].
- As a 3-hour IV infusion[2].
- In combination with imipenem, given every 6 hours for 5 to 21 days, depending on the type of infection being treated[4].
Current Clinical Trials
Several clinical trials are currently being conducted to further study the effectiveness and safety of Cilastatin Sodium in various combinations and for different conditions:
- A study evaluating the pharmacokinetics (how the drug moves through the body) of Cilastatin in combination with XNW4107 and imipenem in subjects with various degrees of renal function[1].
- A trial investigating the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetic profile of Cilastatin when administered alone in healthy volunteers[2].
- A study comparing the efficacy and safety of imipenem+cilastatin/relebactam versus colistimethate sodium+imipenem+cilastatin in treating imipenem-resistant bacterial infections[4].
Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations
As with any medication, Cilastatin Sodium can potentially cause side effects. In clinical trials, researchers closely monitor for adverse events (AEs) and serious adverse events (SAEs). Some potential side effects and safety considerations include:
- Nephrotoxicity: This refers to toxic effects on the kidneys. Patients’ kidney function is closely monitored during treatment[4].
- Liver function changes: Researchers monitor for changes in liver enzyme levels[4].
- Infusion site reactions: As the medication is given intravenously, there may be reactions at the site where the IV is placed[2].
- Changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature[2].
It’s important to note that not all patients will experience these side effects, and the benefits of treatment often outweigh the risks for patients with serious bacterial infections.
Use in Special Populations
The use of Cilastatin Sodium may need to be adjusted for certain groups of patients:
- Patients with kidney problems: The dosage may need to be adjusted based on the patient’s level of kidney function. In clinical trials, different doses are used for patients with various degrees of renal insufficiency[1].
- Patients on hemodialysis: Special considerations may be needed for patients with end-stage renal disease who are receiving hemodialysis[1].
Always inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have and all medications you’re taking to ensure safe and effective treatment.






