Invanz

Drug Overview

Invanz (ertapenem; Merck & Co) is a carbapenem antibacterial agent that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis through binding to penicillin-binding proteins. The drug inhibits the crosslinking of peptidoglycan strands that are required for the formation of the bacterial cell wall. Invanz has demonstrated in vitro activity against a range of Gram-positive bacterial strains including methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. Its spectrum of activity also includes some Gram-negative and anaerobic bacterial strains. Invanz’s wide spectrum of activity stems from its high stability against a wide range of beta-lactamases including extended-spectrum, and AmpC beta-lactamases. However, the drug has a more limited activity than older carbapenems on some clinically significant bacterial strains including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterococcus strains.

Analyst Outlook

Invanz (ertapenem; Merck & Co) exhibits a more limited antibacterial spectrum than older members of the carbapenem class. Most noticeable is its lack of efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which have particular high clinical significance in some of the more severe cases of CAP. Datamonitor Healthcare believes that Invanz’s limited efficacy against such bacterial strains will continue to limit its share in the CAP market, as it diminishes its competitiveness against earlier members of the carbapenem class, as well as other types of antibacterial agents.