Menem
Generic Name
Meropenem
Manufacturer
MediPharma Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| menem 500 mg injection | ৳ 700.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Meropenem is a carbapenem antibiotic used for the treatment of severe bacterial infections, including those resistant to other antibiotics. It is administered intravenously.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Usually 500 mg to 1 g IV every 8 hours, depending on the type and severity of infection. For bacterial meningitis, 2 g IV every 8 hours.
Elderly
Dosage should be adjusted based on renal function, similar to adults.
Renal_impairment
Dosage reduction is required. For example, creatinine clearance 26-50 mL/min: 1 g every 12 hours; 10-25 mL/min: 500 mg every 12 hours; <10 mL/min: 500 mg every 24 hours.
How to Take
Administer by intravenous (IV) infusion over 15 to 30 minutes, or by IV bolus injection over 3 to 5 minutes for doses up to 1 g.
Mechanism of Action
Meropenem is a bactericidal antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by penetrating rapidly into the bacterial cell wall and binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), leading to cell lysis and death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid onset of action following IV administration.
Excretion
Primarily excreted via the kidneys (approximately 70% as unchanged drug) within 12 hours.
Half life
Approximately 1 hour in adults with normal renal function.
Absorption
Rapid and almost complete absorption after intravenous (IV) administration.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized; primarily hydrolyzed to an open-ring beta-lactam metabolite which is microbiologically inactive.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to meropenem or any other carbapenem antibiotic.
- Severe hypersensitivity to any other beta-lactam antibiotic (e.g., penicillins or cephalosporins).
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Probenecid competes with meropenem for active tubular secretion, leading to increased plasma concentrations and prolonged half-life of meropenem.
Valproic acid
Concurrent use with meropenem may significantly decrease valproic acid plasma concentrations, leading to loss of seizure control. Co-administration is generally not recommended.
Oral anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Co-administration with meropenem may potentiate the anticoagulant effect, requiring close monitoring of INR.
Storage
Store the powder for injection below 25°C (77°F), protected from light. Do not freeze. Reconstituted solutions should be used immediately or stored as per manufacturer's guidelines (e.g., at 2-8°C for a limited time).
Overdose
Limited experience with overdose. Symptoms may include gastrointestinal disturbances, seizures, or hypersensitivity reactions. Management should be symptomatic and supportive. Meropenem and its metabolite can be removed by hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Meropenem is excreted in small amounts in human breast milk; caution is advised during breastfeeding. Consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to meropenem or any other carbapenem antibiotic.
- Severe hypersensitivity to any other beta-lactam antibiotic (e.g., penicillins or cephalosporins).
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Probenecid competes with meropenem for active tubular secretion, leading to increased plasma concentrations and prolonged half-life of meropenem.
Valproic acid
Concurrent use with meropenem may significantly decrease valproic acid plasma concentrations, leading to loss of seizure control. Co-administration is generally not recommended.
Oral anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Co-administration with meropenem may potentiate the anticoagulant effect, requiring close monitoring of INR.
Storage
Store the powder for injection below 25°C (77°F), protected from light. Do not freeze. Reconstituted solutions should be used immediately or stored as per manufacturer's guidelines (e.g., at 2-8°C for a limited time).
Overdose
Limited experience with overdose. Symptoms may include gastrointestinal disturbances, seizures, or hypersensitivity reactions. Management should be symptomatic and supportive. Meropenem and its metabolite can be removed by hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Meropenem is excreted in small amounts in human breast milk; caution is advised during breastfeeding. Consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture when stored correctly. Reconstituted solutions have limited stability.
Availability
Hospitals, Clinics, Pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies globally
Patent Status
Generics available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Meropenem has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in treating a broad range of severe bacterial infections in both adult and pediatric populations. Ongoing trials focus on its role in multidrug-resistant organisms and specific patient groups.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function (creatinine clearance) in all patients, especially those with pre-existing renal impairment.
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST, ALP) periodically.
- Complete blood count (CBC) during prolonged therapy.
- Serum valproic acid levels if co-administered.
Doctor Notes
- Meropenem is a critical broad-spectrum carbapenem indicated for serious, often life-threatening, infections.
- Careful assessment of patient's renal function is essential for appropriate dosing and to prevent drug accumulation.
- Monitor for hypersensitivity reactions, especially in patients with a history of beta-lactam allergies.
- Avoid concomitant use with valproic acid due to significant interaction leading to loss of seizure control.
Patient Guidelines
- It is crucial to complete the entire prescribed course of Meropenem, even if symptoms improve.
- Report any signs of allergic reaction (e.g., rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) 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 you remember, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Meropenem may cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, or seizures, which could impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. Patients should be cautioned.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent further infections.
- Stay well-hydrated during treatment.
- Avoid alcohol if experiencing side effects like nausea or dizziness.
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