Carbapenems vs. alternative β-lactams for the treatment of nosocomial pneumonia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Carbapenems have shown efficacy in treating nosocomial pneumonias in clinical trials despite a reported low lung penetration compared with other β-lactams. Preserving the clinical activity of carbapenems through stewardship efforts is essential. The aim of this review was to identify any differences in outcomes potentially as a function of decreased penetration.