Carbapenem is a class of broad-spectrum antibiotics used to treat severe bacterial infections. They are effective against many types of bacteria, including those resistant to other antibiotics. Carbapenems work by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to the death of the bacteria. These antibiotics are often reserved for serious infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms. Common examples of carbapenems include meropenem, imipenem, and ertapenem. Due to their potency, they are typically used in hospital settings under careful medical supervision to prevent the development of further antibiotic resistance.