To determine which of the options is not a carbapenem, it's essential to understand the definitions and classifications of these antibiotics:
- Carbapenems: These are a class of β-lactam antibiotics known for their broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. They are often used to treat severe or high-risk bacterial infections. Common carbapenems include Imipenem, Meropenem, Ertapenem, and Doripenem.
- Thienamycin: Is recognized as the first natural carbapenem antibiotic discovered. It is considered the prototype for synthetic carbapenem antibiotics, including Imipenem.
- Imipenem: A widely used carbapenem antibiotic. It is effective against a wide range of bacteria and is often used for treating severe infections.
- Meropenem: Another carbapenem antibiotic that is used to treat severe infections caused by bacteria.
- Piperacillin: This is a penicillin antibiotic, often combined with a β-lactamase inhibitor like tazobactam to extend its spectrum of activity. It is not a carbapenem but belongs to a different class of β-lactam antibiotics.
Given the above explanations, the correct answer to the question "Following is not an example of carbapenem" is:
- Piperacillin: As it is a penicillin antibiotic, not a carbapenem.
Therefore, the correct answer is Piperacillin, not Thienamycin as suggested. Please note that there is a misunderstanding in the information given, as Thienamycin is indeed a carbapenem.