Uses

A broad-spectrum ureidopenicillin antibiotic used to treat serious infections including intra-abdominal infections, nosocomial pneumonia, skin and soft tissue infections, and female pelvic infections. Typically used in combination with a beta-lactamase inhibitor for enhanced efficacy against resistant organisms.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reactions to penicillins, cephalosporins, or beta-lactamase inhibitors.

Side effects

Common adverse effects include hypersensitivity reactions, diarrhea, nausea, headache, and injection site reactions. Serious reactions include severe cutaneous adverse reactions, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, rhabdomyolysis, and Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea.

Warnings

Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity reactions have occurred in patients receiving penicillin therapy. Prolonged use may result in superinfection with resistant organisms. Monitor renal and hematologic function during therapy.

How it works

Piperacillin is a ureidopenicillin that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), leading to cell lysis and death. It is active against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria including Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Its pharmacodynamic efficacy correlates with the time that free drug concentrations exceed the minimum inhibitory concentration (T>MIC).

Storage

Store the bulk preparation at controlled room temperature (20–25°C). Refer to product labeling for reconstituted solution stability. Not for direct infusion from bulk package.