Menem
Generic Name
Meropenem
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| menem 1 gm injection | ৳ 1,300.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Meropenem is a carbapenem antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. It is a broad-spectrum antibiotic effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including many multi-drug resistant strains.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typical dose is 500 mg to 2 gm intravenously every 8 hours, depending on the severity and type of infection. For meningitis, 2 gm every 8 hours.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment for elderly patients with normal renal function. Adjust dosage based on renal function.
Renal_impairment
Dosage adjustment required based on creatinine clearance. For example, CrCl 26-50 mL/min: 1 gm every 12 hours; CrCl 10-25 mL/min: 500 mg every 12 hours; CrCl <10 mL/min: 500 mg every 24 hours.
How to Take
Administer intravenously, either as an infusion over 15 to 30 minutes or as a bolus over 3 to 5 minutes (for doses up to 1 gm). Reconstitute with sterile water for injection or compatible intravenous fluids.
Mechanism of Action
Meropenem is a bactericidal antibiotic that acts by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It penetrates bacterial cell walls and binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), disrupting the final stages of cell wall synthesis.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid onset of action, typically within minutes of IV administration.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine (approximately 70% within 12 hours).
Half life
Approximately 1 hour in adults with normal renal function.
Absorption
Rapid and complete absorption after intravenous administration.
Metabolism
Minimal hepatic metabolism, primarily hydrolyzed in the kidney to an inactive open-ring metabolite.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Meropenem or any component of the formulation.
- Patients with a history of severe hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, 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 plasma concentrations and prolonged half-life of Meropenem. Concomitant use is not recommended.
Valproic Acid
Co-administration with Meropenem may significantly decrease valproic acid plasma concentrations, leading to a loss of seizure control. Avoid concomitant use.
Oral Anticoagulants
May potentiate the anticoagulant effect of vitamin K antagonists (e.g., warfarin).
Storage
Store powder vials below 25°C (77°F), protected from light. Reconstituted solutions should be used immediately or stored for a limited time as per manufacturer's guidelines (e.g., 6 hours at room temperature or 24 hours under refrigeration). Do not freeze.
Overdose
In the event of an overdose, discontinue Meropenem. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Meropenem can be removed by hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of 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; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Meropenem or any component of the formulation.
- Patients with a history of severe hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, 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 plasma concentrations and prolonged half-life of Meropenem. Concomitant use is not recommended.
Valproic Acid
Co-administration with Meropenem may significantly decrease valproic acid plasma concentrations, leading to a loss of seizure control. Avoid concomitant use.
Oral Anticoagulants
May potentiate the anticoagulant effect of vitamin K antagonists (e.g., warfarin).
Storage
Store powder vials below 25°C (77°F), protected from light. Reconstituted solutions should be used immediately or stored for a limited time as per manufacturer's guidelines (e.g., 6 hours at room temperature or 24 hours under refrigeration). Do not freeze.
Overdose
In the event of an overdose, discontinue Meropenem. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Meropenem can be removed by hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no evidence of 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; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture. Refer to the product packaging for the exact expiry date.
Availability
Available in hospitals and retail pharmacies
Approval Status
DGDA/FDA approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Meropenem has undergone numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in various severe bacterial infections. Ongoing research explores its role in treating multi-drug resistant organisms and specific patient populations.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function (creatinine, BUN) should be monitored, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST, ALP) should be monitored periodically.
- Complete blood count (CBC) to monitor for hematological abnormalities.
Doctor Notes
- Meropenem is a critical broad-spectrum antibiotic reserved for serious infections, including those caused by multi-drug resistant pathogens.
- Renal dose adjustment is crucial; consult renal function guidelines.
- Be aware of potential drug interactions, especially with valproic acid.
- Monitor for signs of C. difficile infection and seizures.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel better.
- Report any severe side effects, especially diarrhea that is watery or bloody, or signs of an allergic reaction.
- 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 you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Meropenem may cause dizziness or, rarely, seizures. Patients should be advised to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how Meropenem affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain adequate hydration during treatment.
- Avoid self-medication.
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