Sulbactam is used in the treatment of severe bacterial infections. It is effective against severe bacterial infections, most commonly pneumonia, bacteremia, and skin and skin structure infections, caused by the pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii.
How Sulbactam works Sulbactam is a beta-lactamase inhibitor that functions by blocking an enzyme called beta-lactamase, which is produced by bacteria to inactivate antibiotics. Sulbactam is often combined with beta-lactam antibiotics, such as ampicillin, cefoperazone, and meropenem. As a standalone medication, it treats infections caused by the bacterium Acinetobacter baumannii. This activity is mediated by its interaction with specific proteins.
Common side effects of sulbactam include diarrhea and pain at the injection site.