What it does
Salbactum is a medicine that helps fight infections caused by bacteria.
Commonly used for: bacterial infections, infections in patients with weakened immune systems
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-03-12 00:00:52 · updated 2026-09-24 03:32:20
About this medicine
Salbactum is a medicine that helps fight infections caused by bacteria.
What it treats
- bacterial infections
- infections in patients with weakened immune systems
How it works
Salbactum works by stopping bacteria from growing and multiplying, helping the body to fight off infections.
Who it's for
This medicine is for adults and children who have certain types of bacterial infections.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: salbactum
Salbactum is a beta-lactamase inhibitor that is primarily used in combination with beta-lactam antibiotics to enhance their efficacy against resistant bacterial strains. It prevents the breakdown of beta-lactam antibiotics by certain bacterial enzymes, thereby extending their spectrum of activity. Salbactum is particularly effective against gram-negative bacteria that produce beta-lactamase, making it a valuable component in the treatment of various bacterial infections.
Indications
- Complicated urinary tract infections
- Intra-abdominal infections
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Pneumonia caused by susceptible strains
- Sepsis from beta-lactamase producing organisms
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate dosing based on age
Adults: Refer to specific guidelines for dosing based on the combination with the beta-lactam antibiotic being used. Dosing should consider the severity of the infection and renal function.
Mechanism of action
Salbactum works by irreversibly binding to and inhibiting the activity of beta-lactamase enzymes produced by certain bacteria. This inhibition prevents the hydrolysis of the beta-lactam ring of antibiotics, enabling these drugs to remain effective against bacteria that would otherwise be resistant due to the action of these enzymes. The presence of salbactum allows for sustained antimicrobial activity of the co-administered antibiotics, enhancing their therapeutic effectiveness.
Pharmacodynamics
Salbactum exhibits a synergistic effect when used in conjunction with beta-lactam antibiotics. It enhances the antibacterial spectrum of these antibiotics, particularly against penicillin-resistant strains. The combination therapy can lead to improved clinical outcomes and reduction in treatment failures associated with resistant infections. The pharmacodynamic profile is characterized by bactericidal activity, where the drug combination leads to the death of bacteria, particularly in rapidly dividing organisms.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of salbactum, when administered with beta-lactam antibiotics, may vary based on the specific antibiotic used. Generally, salbactum is administered parenterally, with good tissue penetration observed. It is metabolized in the liver and excreted primarily through the kidneys. The half-life can range depending on the formulation and the concomitant antibiotics, necessitating careful consideration of dosing intervals to maintain effective plasma concentrations.
Adverse effects
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Fever
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of allergies
- Monitor renal function in patients with renal impairment
- Consider potential interaction with other antibiotics
Pregnancy
Safety in pregnancy has not been established. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Caution is advised as it is not known if salbactum is excreted in human milk.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct light. Keep out of reach of children.
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.