Carbapenem is a class of broad-spectrum β-lactam antibiotics that are structurally related to penicillin and cephalosporins. Developed in the 1980s, carbapenems were introduced to combat the increasing resistance of bacteria to other antibiotics, providing an essential tool in treating severe infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms. Their effectiveness against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacteriaceae, has made them a cornerstone in critical care and hospital settings. The discovery and subsequent clinical application of carbapenems marked a significant advancement in antibacterial therapy, paving the way for ongoing research into the mechanisms of resistance and the development of new derivatives to ensure efficacy against evolving pathogens.

Elevated Carbapenem levels may indicate the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, suggesting an adaptive response to previous antibiotic treatments or a significant bacterial dysbiosis. This could reflect an ongoing infection or an aggressive microbial imbalance in the gut. Conversely, low levels of Carbapenem could suggest either a lack of antibiotic-resistant strains in the microbiome or effective management of infection, indicating a healthier microbiome environment. However, low levels might also imply compromised microbial diversity or a failure to control pathogenic bacteria, which could be linked to underlying health issues or challenges in gut health.

Carbapenem is featured in the Gut Zoomer panel, which analyzes the presence of this critical biomarker associated with antibiotic resistance in gut microbiota. By assessing Carbapenem levels, the Gut Zoomer helps practitioners understand disruptions in the microbiome that may contribute to chronic infections and overall gut health. This unique insight enables targeted approaches to managing antibiotic resistance and optimizing gut function in personalized healthcare strategies.