Imipenem. True statement about it is:
**Core Concept**
Imipenem is a carbapenem antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It is a beta-lactam antibiotic that targets the penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) essential for bacterial cell wall formation, ultimately leading to cell lysis and death.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Imipenem is a broad-spectrum antibiotic effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including those resistant to other beta-lactam antibiotics. Its mechanism of action involves binding to PBPs, thereby preventing the cross-linking of peptidoglycan layers in the bacterial cell wall. This leads to weakened cell walls and ultimately, bacterial cell death. Imipenem is administered in combination with cilastatin, a dehydropeptidase inhibitor, to prevent renal metabolism and extend its duration of action.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not specify a true statement about imipenem. Without more information, it is difficult to assess the validity of this statement.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is not a characteristic of imipenem. Imipenem is not primarily used for treating urinary tract infections; instead, it is used for treating various nosocomial infections.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it is not accurate. Imipenem is not a cephalosporin antibiotic; it is a carbapenem antibiotic.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Imipenem is a high-yield fact for exams due to its broad-spectrum activity and use in treating resistant bacterial infections. It is essential to remember that imipenem is administered in combination with cilastatin to prevent renal metabolism and extend its duration of action.
**Correct Answer: B. Imipenem is administered in combination with cilastatin to prevent renal metabolism and extend its duration of action.**