Betanem
Generic Name
Meropenem
Manufacturer
Acme Laboratories Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| betanem 1 gm injection | ৳ 1,250.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Meropenem is a broad-spectrum carbapenem antibiotic used to treat a wide range of severe bacterial infections, including those resistant to other antibiotics. It is administered intravenously.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typical dose: 500 mg to 2 gm IV every 8 hours, depending on the type and severity of infection. For bacterial meningitis and severe infections, 2 gm IV every 8 hours is common.
Elderly
Dosage should be adjusted based on renal function. No specific dose reduction is needed solely for age if renal function is normal.
Renal_impairment
Dosage reduction is required based on creatinine clearance. For CrCl 26-50 mL/min, 1 gm every 12 hours; for CrCl 10-25 mL/min, 500 mg every 12 hours; for CrCl <10 mL/min, 500 mg every 24 hours.
How to Take
Administer intravenously (IV) by bolus injection over 5 minutes or by infusion over 15 to 30 minutes. The injection should be reconstituted with sterile water for injection or an appropriate compatible intravenous fluid.
Mechanism of Action
Meropenem is a bactericidal antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by penetrating rapidly into the bacterial cell and binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). It is stable to hydrolysis by most beta-lactamases, including extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) and AmpC enzymes.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid, typically within minutes of IV administration.
Excretion
Primarily renal excretion, with approximately 70% of the administered dose excreted unchanged in urine within 12 hours.
Half life
Approximately 1 hour in adults with normal renal function.
Absorption
Rapid and complete absorption after intravenous administration, 100% bioavailability.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized; primarily hydrolyzed by dehydropeptidase-I, but meropenem is resistant to this enzyme.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to meropenem or any component of the formulation.
- Severe hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylactic reaction, severe skin reaction) to any other beta-lactam antibacterial agent (e.g., penicillins, cephalosporins).
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Probenecid competes with meropenem for active tubular secretion, resulting in increased meropenem plasma concentrations and prolonged half-life. Concomitant administration is not recommended.
Valproic Acid
Co-administration with meropenem may decrease valproic acid plasma concentrations to subtherapeutic levels, leading to loss of seizure control. Avoid concomitant use.
Storage
Store dry powder vials below 30°C (86°F) and protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Reconstituted solutions should be used immediately or stored as per manufacturer's instructions.
Overdose
In the event of an overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Meropenem can be removed by hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Meropenem is excreted in human milk in very small quantities; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to meropenem or any component of the formulation.
- Severe hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylactic reaction, severe skin reaction) to any other beta-lactam antibacterial agent (e.g., penicillins, cephalosporins).
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Probenecid competes with meropenem for active tubular secretion, resulting in increased meropenem plasma concentrations and prolonged half-life. Concomitant administration is not recommended.
Valproic Acid
Co-administration with meropenem may decrease valproic acid plasma concentrations to subtherapeutic levels, leading to loss of seizure control. Avoid concomitant use.
Storage
Store dry powder vials below 30°C (86°F) and protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Reconstituted solutions should be used immediately or stored as per manufacturer's instructions.
Overdose
In the event of an overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Meropenem can be removed by hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Meropenem is excreted in human milk in very small quantities; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture when stored correctly. Reconstituted solutions have limited stability (e.g., 2 hours at room temperature, 12-24 hours refrigerated).
Availability
Available in hospitals and pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies globally (e.g., FDA, EMA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available, primary patents expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Meropenem has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety across various severe bacterial infections. These trials have supported its broad-spectrum activity and favorable pharmacokinetic profile.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor renal function (creatinine, BUN) regularly, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
- Monitor liver function tests (ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase).
- Monitor complete blood count (CBC) during prolonged therapy.
Doctor Notes
- Careful consideration of dosage adjustment is crucial in patients with renal impairment.
- Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity reactions, especially in patients with a history of allergy to other beta-lactams.
- Be aware of potential drug interactions, particularly with valproic acid.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence and development of antibiotic resistance.
- Report any severe or persistent side effects, especially diarrhea, skin rash, or signs of an allergic reaction, to your doctor immediately.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, administer it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Meropenem may cause dizziness or seizures in some patients, which could impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. Patients should be advised to exercise caution until they know how the drug affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hydration during treatment.
- Avoid alcohol consumption during antibiotic treatment, as it may exacerbate side effects or interact with the medication (though not specifically strong for meropenem).
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