Carbenicillin

Dose Adult

Severe susceptible Gram-negative infections: 4-5 g IV every 4-6 hours (up to 30 g/day).

Pseudomonas infections: 20-30 g/day IV in divided doses.

Dose Paeds

200-400 mg/kg/day IV in divided doses every 4-6 hours (maximum according to clinical indication).

Carbenicillin Brands

BrandStatusManufacturerStrengthFormulationAvailabilityPrice
GeocillinHistoricalPfizer (historical)382 mgCapsules (Indanyl Carbenicillin)Not verified in KenyaN/A
PyopenHistoricalBeecham (historical)1 gInjectionNot verified in KenyaN/A
No currently verified PPB-registered Kenyan Carbenicillin brands identified.

Combinations

May be used with an aminoglycoside for severe Pseudomonas infections; administer separately.

Carbenicillin More action
IndicationsPseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus spp., Enterobacter infections, severe urinary tract infections, septicaemia and other susceptible Gram-negative infections.
PrecautionsRenal impairment, sodium overload, heart failure, electrolyte imbalance, allergy to beta-lactams.
ContraindicationsHypersensitivity to penicillins or beta-lactam antibiotics.
Pregnancy/LactationUse only when clearly indicated. Generally considered low risk; compatible with breastfeeding.
Adverse reactionAllergic reactions, diarrhoea, thrombocytopenia, hypokalaemia, sodium overload, phlebitis, seizures with high doses in renal impairment.
PolypharmacyWarfarin, methotrexate, probenecid and aminoglycosides require monitoring.
Drug CategoryDRUGS ACTING ON INFECTIONS
Drug Sub-CategoryAntipseudomonal Penicillins