Meromax
Generic Name
Meropenem
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| meromax 500 mg injection | ৳ 700.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Meromax-500 mg injection contains Meropenem, a broad-spectrum carbapenem antibiotic. It is used to treat serious bacterial infections in adults and children.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typical dose is 500 mg to 1 g intravenously every 8 hours, depending on the type and severity of infection. For bacterial meningitis, 2 g IV every 8 hours.
Elderly
Dose adjustment is typically not required based on age alone, but renal function should be assessed and dose adjusted if creatinine clearance is <51 mL/min.
Renal_impairment
For creatinine clearance 26-50 mL/min: 1 dose unit (e.g., 500 mg) every 12 hours. For creatinine clearance 10-25 mL/min: 1 dose unit every 24 hours. For creatinine clearance <10 mL/min: half dose unit (e.g., 250 mg) every 24 hours.
How to Take
Meromax-500 mg is for intravenous use only. It can be administered as an intravenous bolus injection (over 3-5 minutes) or as an intravenous infusion (over 15-30 minutes). Reconstitute the powder for injection with sterile water for injection.
Mechanism of Action
Meropenem is a bactericidal antibiotic that acts by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in bacteria, which are crucial for cell wall formation.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid, with peak plasma concentrations achieved shortly after the end of infusion.
Excretion
Primarily renal, with approximately 70% of the administered dose excreted unchanged in the urine within 12 hours.
Half life
Approximately 1 hour in adults with normal renal function.
Absorption
Meropenem is administered intravenously; therefore, absorption is complete and rapid, bypassing the first-pass metabolism.
Metabolism
Approximately 20% of the dose is metabolized to an inactive open-ring lactam metabolite.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Meropenem or any component of the formulation.
- Patients with a history of severe hypersensitivity 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.
Valproic acid/Sodium Valproate
Concurrent use may decrease valproic acid levels, leading to loss of seizure control. Co-administration is generally not recommended.
Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased anticoagulant effect has been reported when carbapenems are co-administered with warfarin.
Storage
Store powder for injection below 30°C. Protect from light. Do not freeze. Reconstituted solution should be used immediately or stored for a limited time as per manufacturer's instructions.
Overdose
In case of overdose, discontinue Meropenem and initiate general supportive treatment. Meropenem can be removed by hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Meromax should be used 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 24 to 36 months when stored as recommended. Reconstituted solution has a shorter shelf life.
Availability
Hospitals and Licensed Pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Meropenem has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in various severe bacterial infections. These trials have supported its broad approval and use.
Lab Monitoring
- Regular monitoring of renal function (serum creatinine, BUN)
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST, bilirubin) during prolonged therapy
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) including differential count
- Coagulation parameters if co-administered with anticoagulants
Doctor Notes
- Ensure appropriate culture and susceptibility tests are performed before initiating therapy, if feasible.
- Monitor patients for signs of superinfection, especially Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea.
- Careful dose adjustment is crucial in patients with impaired renal function to avoid accumulation and toxicity.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of Meromax-500 mg injection as prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel better.
- Report any new or worsening symptoms, especially severe diarrhea, rash, or allergic reactions.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, 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 to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Meromax may cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, or seizures in some patients. If you experience these symptoms, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain adequate hydration during therapy.
- Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment as it may exacerbate side effects.
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Global Brand Names
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