Mepen
Generic Name
Meropenem
Manufacturer
Example: Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| mepen 1 gm injection | ৳ 1,200.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Meropenem is a carbapenem antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including severe and multi-drug resistant infections. It is administered intravenously.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 500 mg to 1 gm intravenously every 8 hours, depending on the type and severity of infection.
Elderly
Dosage adjustment may be necessary based on renal function.
Renal_impairment
Dosage reduction is required in patients with creatinine clearance less than 50 mL/min. Refer to specific guidelines.
How to Take
Administer by intravenous infusion over 15-30 minutes or by intravenous bolus over 3-5 minutes, as directed by a healthcare professional.
Mechanism of Action
Meropenem inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), leading to bacterial cell lysis and death. It is resistant to hydrolysis by most beta-lactamases.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid onset of action following IV administration.
Excretion
Primarily renal excretion (approximately 70% as unchanged drug within 12 hours).
Half life
Approximately 1 hour in adults with normal renal function.
Absorption
Rapid and complete absorption after intravenous administration.
Metabolism
Minimal metabolism; primarily hydrolyzed by dehydropeptidase-1, but this is minor as meropenem is relatively stable to this enzyme.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to meropenem or other carbapenem antibiotics
- Known severe hypersensitivity to any other beta-lactam antibacterial agent (e.g., penicillins, cephalosporins)
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Increases the plasma concentration and prolongs the half-life of meropenem by inhibiting renal excretion. Not recommended for co-administration.
Valproic acid/Sodium valproate
Meropenem may decrease valproic acid levels, potentially leading to loss of seizure control. Co-administration is generally not recommended.
Storage
Store dry powder vials below 25°C (77°F), protected from light. Reconstituted solutions should be used immediately or within a specific time frame (e.g., 3 hours at 25°C or 12 hours at 2-8°C), refer to package insert.
Overdose
In case of overdose, discontinue meropenem and initiate supportive treatment. Hemodialysis can remove meropenem and its metabolite from the body.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use in pregnancy only if clearly needed. Meropenem is excreted in human milk, so caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to meropenem or other carbapenem antibiotics
- Known severe hypersensitivity to any other beta-lactam antibacterial agent (e.g., penicillins, cephalosporins)
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Increases the plasma concentration and prolongs the half-life of meropenem by inhibiting renal excretion. Not recommended for co-administration.
Valproic acid/Sodium valproate
Meropenem may decrease valproic acid levels, potentially leading to loss of seizure control. Co-administration is generally not recommended.
Storage
Store dry powder vials below 25°C (77°F), protected from light. Reconstituted solutions should be used immediately or within a specific time frame (e.g., 3 hours at 25°C or 12 hours at 2-8°C), refer to package insert.
Overdose
In case of overdose, discontinue meropenem and initiate supportive treatment. Hemodialysis can remove meropenem and its metabolite from the body.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use in pregnancy only if clearly needed. Meropenem is excreted in human milk, so caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years, refer to the manufacturer's specific product label for exact shelf life.
Availability
Hospitals, Clinics, Pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies globally (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available, patent expired for active ingredient
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated Meropenem's efficacy and safety for various bacterial infections, leading to its widespread approval and use.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (serum creatinine, BUN) periodically, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST) if treatment is prolonged.
- Complete blood count (CBC) for prolonged therapy.
Doctor Notes
- Monitor renal function closely, especially in elderly and renally impaired patients; dose adjustment is critical.
- Be aware of potential CNS adverse effects, particularly seizures, in patients with a history of CNS disorders or compromised renal function.
- Consider meropenem for serious infections when other antibiotics are ineffective or contraindicated, given its broad spectrum and stability against beta-lactamases.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the entire course of medication as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
- Report any severe side effects immediately to your doctor.
- 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 the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Meropenem may cause side effects like dizziness or seizures in some patients, which could impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. Exercise caution.
Lifestyle Advice
- Stay well-hydrated during treatment.
- Avoid alcohol consumption while on antibiotics if advised by your doctor.
- Maintain good personal hygiene to prevent further infections.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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