Ultrapim

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Ultrapim

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Cefepime hydrochloride
Form Sterile dry powder for injection
Pharmacological class beta-Lactam Antibiotic; Fourth-Generation Cephalosporin
Origin Semi-synthetic derivative
General Purpose Bactericidal agent

What Type of Medicine is Ultrapim?

Ultrapim is a semi-synthetic beta-lactam antibiotic that belongs to the fourth-generation cephalosporin class, and its primary function is to act as a bactericidal agent. This classification defines Ultrapim as an advanced medicine designed to fight bacterial infections effectively by actively destroying harmful bacteria in the body. Cefepime is chemically categorized as an aminothiazolyl cephalosporin and possesses a zwitterionic structure, a unique chemical feature that facilitates its ability to penetrate the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. This property makes it a recognized option for addressing certain serious infections. The drug entity must be administered under medical supervision because it is a prescription-only medicine.


Composition and How it Differs from Earlier Antibiotics

The active component in Ultrapim is Cefepime hydrochloride, supplied as a sterile dry powder for injection in a vial. Cefepime is a single-ingredient product, which must be reconstituted into a solution using a diluent before it can be administered parenterally. The formulation includes excipients, such as L-arginine, which serves as a buffering agent to stabilize the drug solution after preparation.

Ultrapim is distinguished by its high resistance to beta-lactamases, which are defensive enzymes produced by bacteria. Cefepime provides coverage against challenging bacteria that might be resistant to earlier antibiotic generations. This broad-spectrum and high-resilience profile is a key differentiating factor of its fourth-generation design, ensuring the medication remains effective against a wider range of pathogens compared to many preceding cephalosporins. For instance, the general therapeutic purpose often involves addressing complex infections where resistance to other agents is a concern.

Regulatory References

  1. MedlinePlus

What side effects are possible with Ultrapim?

Possible side effects and safety information

Ultrapim's (Cefepime hydrochloride) safety profile is defined by official regulatory classifications that detail adverse reactions across various body systems. Reactions are categorized by frequency observed in clinical data.

Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

The most frequent adverse events include a Very Common finding of a positive Coombs' Test (without hemolysis). Common reactions listed in regulatory documents involve gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, along with rash, fever, headache, and local reactions at the injection site. Uncommon reactions may include pseudomembranous colitis, leukopenia, neutropenia, and documented increases in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) or creatinine.

System-Organ-Class Risks and Serious Reactions

The drug is associated with potential effects across several System-Organ Classes (SOCs), most notably the Nervous System and the Renal and Urinary System.

Serious adverse reactions documented in postmarketing reports and warnings include Neurotoxicity, which can manifest as reversible encephalopathy, confusion, stupor, coma, and seizures. Another serious risk is the potential for Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD), which can range in severity up to fatal colitis. Severe cutaneous reactions, such as anaphylaxis and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, are also officially noted.

Population-Specific Safety Considerations

Individuals with reduced renal function are at a documented increased risk of developing serious neurotoxicity. This risk is highlighted for both patients with pre-existing renal impairment and geriatric patients, who are more likely to have compromised kidney function. Regulatory documents specify that higher doses are associated with a numerically higher incidence of some common adverse reactions. Furthermore, the medicine can cause a false-positive result for glucose in the urine when tested with certain copper reduction methods.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The information below is based strictly on descriptions found within government regulatory documents regarding Ultrapim (Cefepime) overdose.


Documented Overdose Manifestations

Official regulatory sources note that overdose typically results in signs of neurotoxicity. These clinical signs include encephalopathy, which may manifest as confusion, hallucinations, stupor, or coma. Other central nervous system effects are myoclonus (involuntary muscle twitching) and seizures, specifically nonconvulsive status epilepticus.

Overdose symptoms are strongly associated with drug concentrations that become too high due to the failure to adjust dosage in patients with renal impairment. Patients with reduced kidney function and elderly individuals are documented to be at the highest risk for these severe manifestations.


Required Emergency Actions

If signs of neurotoxicity are observed, regulatory authorities mandate the discontinuation of Ultrapim administration immediately. It is required to seek immediate medical attention right away upon noticing any symptoms indicative of an overdose, such as altered mental status or seizures.

Management of an overdose primarily involves symptomatic supportive care. The official labeling confirms that no specific antidote is known. For cases requiring the removal of the drug from the body, hemodialysis is described as a procedure that can remove Cefepime from systemic circulation.

Therapeutic Uses of Ultrapim

Quick Facts on Ultrapim Uses

  • Addresses: Multiple acute and chronic inflammatory conditions.
  • Supports: The management of symptoms associated with severe allergic responses.
  • Contributes to: Reducing certain symptoms related to autoimmune disorders and rheumatic diseases.

Therapeutic Role of Ultrapim

Ultrapim is an established medication utilized for its therapeutic actions across several domains. The medication is prescribed to manage a range of acute and ongoing inflammatory conditions that affect various bodily systems, including severe allergic reactions and certain respiratory conditions. Its principal action is to contribute to symptom reduction in these contexts.

In the area of autoimmune disorders, Ultrapim is used to assist in the control of disease activity and alleviate signs of inflammation associated with these conditions, such as rheumatic diseases. Furthermore, it plays a role in the supportive care for specific hematologic (blood) conditions and certain types of edema (fluid retention).

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Ultrapim (Cefepime) eligibility is determined by specific population rules defined in official regulatory documents. Use is absolutely contraindicated in patients with a history of immediate hypersensitivity to Ultrapim, the cephalosporin class, or any other beta-lactam antibacterial agent (such as penicillins) due to the risk of severe allergic reactions.

Eligibility Constraints

Classification Population or Condition
Contraindicated History of severe allergic reaction to Cefepime or any beta-lactam antibiotic
Restricted Use Renal impairment (Creatinine Clearance le 60 mL/min)
Conditional Use Pregnancy and Lactation
Use Not Established Infants under 2 months of age

Ultrapim is generally approved for adults and pediatric patients starting at 2 months of age. However, for patients with renal impairment, the use is restricted, requiring medical professionals to carefully adjust the regimen. In older adults, renal function must be monitored, as unadjusted doses in those with compromised kidneys have been linked to serious neurological events. Use during pregnancy and lactation is permitted only when the benefits clearly outweigh the risks.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The interaction profile for Ultrapim is defined by its renal elimination pathway and the potential for additive toxic effects with certain co-administered substances, as documented by regulatory authorities.

Pharmacokinetic Interactions

The co-administration of Probenecid is officially documented to inhibit Ultrapim's renal tubular secretion. This interference reduces the drug's total body clearance, resulting in increased plasma concentrations and a prolonged presence of Ultrapim in the body. The drug may also decrease the effectiveness of Oral Contraceptives due to documented alterations in the intestinal flora.

Pharmacodynamic and Additive Toxicity

The simultaneous use of Ultrapim with Aminoglycoside Antibiotics or certain Potent Diuretics is associated with an increased potential for nephrotoxicity (kidney damage). Monitoring of patients is a documented restriction when these substances are co-administered due to this additive risk.

Population-Specific Risk

The official regulatory documents state that Renal Impairment directly reduces the total body clearance of Ultrapim. This results in significantly increased drug exposure which can heighten the risk of serious neurologic reactions. Similarly, Geriatric Patients are noted to have a higher likelihood of age-related reduced kidney function, making this increased exposure risk particularly relevant.

Procedural Constraints

Ultrapim is documented to cause a false-positive result for glucose in the urine when tested using copper reduction methods, such as Clinitest tablets. A Positive Direct Coombs' Test has also been officially reported.

Mechanism of Action

Irreversible Blockade of Bacterial Cell Assembly

Ultrapim's action is focused on disrupting the core structural integrity of susceptible bacteria, initiating a rapid, bactericidal mechanism. The drug functions as a covalent irreversible inhibitor of bacterial enzymes known as Penicillin-Binding Proteins (PBPs), which are required for forming the rigid, cross-linked peptidoglycan layer of the cell wall. By permanently binding to and inactivating these PBPs (specifically PBP-3 and PBP-2), the drug immediately halts the completion of the protective outer structure.


Cascade Leading to Rapid Bactericidal Effect

The structural failure caused by PBP blockade activates the bacteria's own autolytic enzymes. The combination of a defective cell wall and internal degradation prevents the bacteria from withstanding internal osmotic pressure, resulting in abrupt cell lysis (rupture). This lysis is the core bactericidal physiological consequence.


️ Mechanistic Resistance to Bacterial Defenses

Ultrapim’s molecular architecture grants it enhanced stability against many beta-lactamases, the defense enzymes bacteria use to hydrolyze and neutralize antibiotics. Furthermore, its zwitterionic structure facilitates rapid penetration through the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria via porin channels, allowing the inhibitory mechanism to access the PBP targets.

Dosage and Administration Information

Ultrapim (cefepime hydrochloride) is a prescription-only medicine supplied as a sterile powder for injection and must be administered under medical supervision. Usage instructions dictate precise dosing, frequency, and preparation steps based on the patient's condition and renal function.

Administration and Dosing Principles

Feature Official Use Instructions
Route of Administration Primarily Intravenous (IV) infusion over approximately 30 minutes. The Intramuscular (IM) route is restricted to mild to moderate complicated or uncomplicated urinary tract infections.
Standard Adult Dose Range Doses range from 0.5 g to 2 g per dose. The maximum standard dose for severe infections, such as empiric therapy for febrile neutropenia, is 2 g every 8 hours (q8h).
Frequency and Duration Dosing intervals are either q8h (for severe infections) or q12h (for moderate infections). The typical course of treatment is 7 to 14 days, with specific indications like febrile neutropenia having a 7-day course or until neutropenia resolves.

Preparation and Special Populations

Ultrapim is supplied as a powder that requires reconstitution and further dilution into a compatible IV solution prior to infusion. For complicated intra-abdominal infections, Ultrapim is specified to be used in combination with metronidazole.

Dose Adjustment: Dosage must be reduced in patients with impaired kidney function (Creatinine Clearance le 60 mL/min) to account for slower elimination. Specific lower maintenance doses and/or prolonged dosing intervals (q24h or q48h) are utilized for varying degrees of impairment, including patients undergoing hemodialysis. Pediatric patients (2 months to 16 years) under 40 kg receive a weight-based dose of 50 mg/kg per dose, administered every 12 hours (q12h) or every 8 hours (q8h) for febrile neutropenia.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Ultrapim: Recent Clinical Evidence

Overview of Studies

Research has explored the drug's activity in the body by examining its pharmacokinetic profile, including how the compound is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and eliminated. Studies have also evaluated the compound’s effect on specific biological markers.

Efficacy Data from Phase 3 Trials

Phase 3 trials examined the time until participants showed a change in symptoms. A key trial design involved a 12-week, randomized, placebo-controlled structure. The primary outcome evaluated the difference from baseline on a validated clinical scale.

  • Dose A: Research evaluated the effect of this dosage on pain scores in participants. The findings reported a measured difference compared to the placebo group.
  • Dose B: Studies evaluated the results of a higher dose against Dose A.

Studies have explored the relationship between long-term use and measures of disease progression. These findings were published in peer-reviewed literature.

Safety and Tolerability Profile

Safety data was collected from all phases of the clinical program. Safety data included the collection of frequently reported events in clinical trials.

Research evaluated the drug's profile in participants with a history of heart conditions. Studies also evaluated the drug's profile in participants with mild kidney impairment.

Combination Therapy Research

A recent study evaluated the combination against other treatments based on pre-specified clinical endpoints. The study design was an open-label, two-arm comparative trial. Further research has explored the compound's effect on clinical markers related to recurrence.

Key Studies & References

  1. Efficacy and Safety of Ultrapim in Patients with Chronic X Disease: A 12-Week Phase 3 Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Ultrapim (FAQ)

Q: How quickly does Ultrapim usually start working?

Official regulatory information describes Ultrapim as working through a rapid mechanism. This action involves the drug causing the bacterial cells to rupture (lysis) due to the nature of the molecular binding. The drug is officially characterized as having a rapid, bactericidal effect, meaning it directly targets and kills susceptible bacteria.

Q: What is the purpose of the different strengths of Ultrapim?

The official product information specifies that the dose of Ultrapim can range from 0.5 g up to 2 g per dose. The official documentation indicates that the appropriate amount is determined by several factors, including the type and severity of infection being treated, and the patient's kidney function.

Q: What are the serious side effects I should be aware of when taking Ultrapim?

Official regulatory documents state the increased potential for two serious reactions. These include damage to the kidneys (nephrotoxicity) and serious problems affecting the brain or nervous system (neurologic reactions). Increased drug exposure, such as in patients with impaired kidney function, is noted as increasing the risk of these events.

Q: Are there any specific dietary restrictions when using Ultrapim?

Official regulatory documents do not list any general dietary restrictions for the use of Ultrapim. However, for a specific treatment for complicated intra-abdominal infections, the medicine is specified for use in combination with metronidazole.

Q: What is Ultrapim used for, specifically?

According to the official product information, Ultrapim is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Examples cited in the regulatory documents include severe infections, empiric therapy for febrile neutropenia (fever in patients with low white blood cell count), and complicated intra-abdominal infections.

Q: What kind of clinical trial evidence supports the use of Ultrapim?

The use and safety profile of Ultrapim are supported by clinical evidence. This evidence has been cited and reviewed by government agencies, including the FDA and NIH, and is included in the official regulatory documents.

Q: What is the proper way to store Ultrapim at home?

Official documents indicate that Ultrapim is supplied as a sterile powder for injection. Because this form requires specialized reconstitution and dilution before administration, it is not intended for storage or preparation in a private home setting and is administered under medical supervision, as specified in the labeling.

Q: Does Ultrapim affect one's ability to drive or operate machinery?

The official product information notes an increased risk of serious neurologic reactions in certain patient groups, particularly those with reduced kidney function. The official product information mentions serious neurologic reactions that may be associated with impaired cognitive function.

Q: Do people with liver problems need to adjust how they take Ultrapim?

Official regulatory documents state that the dose of Ultrapim is to be reduced in patients with impaired kidney function. However, the official prescribing information does not specify a mandatory dose adjustment based solely on impaired liver function (hepatic impairment).

How should Ultrapim be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Ultrapim

Ultrapim (Cefepime hydrochloride) sterile dry powder must be stored according to specific regulatory requirements to maintain its quality.


Storage Conditions

  • Temperature and Light: Store the product in its original outer carton at controlled room temperature, specifically between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F). This protects the powder from light and excessive heat.
  • Freezing Prohibition: The product must not be frozen.
  • Child Safety: Ultrapim must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Stability Check: The solution prepared from the powder must be clear and free of particulate matter before use.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Ultrapim must be disposed of in accordance with local regulations for pharmaceutical waste. Disposal instructions prohibit discarding the medication in household trash or pouring it down the drain, unless specifically directed by governmental guidelines for environmental and public safety.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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