Meropen
Generic Name
Meropenem
Manufacturer
Various manufacturers globally (e.g., Square Pharmaceuticals, Incepta Pharmaceuticals)
Country
Global (manufactured by various companies worldwide)
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| meropen 250 mg injection | ৳ 400.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Meropenem is a broad-spectrum carbapenem antibiotic used to treat various severe bacterial infections, including those resistant to other antibiotics. It is administered intravenously.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 500 mg to 1 g IV every 8 hours, depending on infection type and severity. For some severe infections (e.g., meningitis, severe hospital-acquired pneumonia), 2 g IV every 8 hours.
Elderly
Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal function; monitoring of renal function is advised.
Renal_impairment
Dosing interval and/or dose must be reduced based on creatinine clearance (e.g., CrCl 26-50 mL/min: dose given every 12 hours; CrCl 10-25 mL/min: half dose every 12 hours; CrCl <10 mL/min: half dose every 24 hours).
How to Take
Administer intravenously by bolus injection over 3-5 minutes or by intravenous infusion over 15-30 minutes. Reconstitution must be done with sterile water for injection.
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 highly resistant to hydrolysis by most beta-lactamases, including extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs).
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid, typically within minutes of IV infusion.
Excretion
Primarily renal, with about 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 after intravenous administration. Bioavailability is 100%.
Metabolism
Minimal hepatic metabolism; approximately 20% is hydrolyzed to an inactive open-ring metabolite.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to meropenem or any other carbapenem antibiotic
- Severe hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylactic reaction, severe skin reaction) to any other type of beta-lactam antibacterial agent (e.g., penicillins or cephalosporins)
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Inhibits renal tubular secretion of meropenem, resulting in increased and prolonged plasma concentrations of meropenem.
Valproic Acid
Meropenem may reduce serum valproic acid concentrations, leading to subtherapeutic levels and increased risk of seizures. Co-administration is generally not recommended.
Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Concomitant administration with antibiotics including carbapenems has been reported to increase the anticoagulant effects.
Storage
Store dry powder at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C), protected from light. Reconstituted solution should be used immediately or stored as per specific instructions (e.g., refrigerated for a limited time).
Overdose
In the event of an overdose, discontinue meropenem and initiate symptomatic and supportive treatment. Hemodialysis can effectively remove meropenem and its metabolite from the body.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Meropenem is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to meropenem or any other carbapenem antibiotic
- Severe hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylactic reaction, severe skin reaction) to any other type of beta-lactam antibacterial agent (e.g., penicillins or cephalosporins)
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Inhibits renal tubular secretion of meropenem, resulting in increased and prolonged plasma concentrations of meropenem.
Valproic Acid
Meropenem may reduce serum valproic acid concentrations, leading to subtherapeutic levels and increased risk of seizures. Co-administration is generally not recommended.
Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Concomitant administration with antibiotics including carbapenems has been reported to increase the anticoagulant effects.
Storage
Store dry powder at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C), protected from light. Reconstituted solution should be used immediately or stored as per specific instructions (e.g., refrigerated for a limited time).
Overdose
In the event of an overdose, discontinue meropenem and initiate symptomatic and supportive treatment. Hemodialysis can effectively remove meropenem and its metabolite from the body.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. 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 manufacturing date when stored correctly. Reconstituted solutions have limited stability.
Availability
Hospitals and retail pharmacies with prescription
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, EMA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent (generic versions available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established meropenem's efficacy and safety across a broad range of severe bacterial infections. Ongoing research explores its use in specific populations or against emerging resistant pathogens.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (creatinine, BUN)
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST)
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Serum valproic acid levels (if co-administered)
Doctor Notes
- Crucial to adjust dose in patients with renal impairment.
- Monitor for signs of seizures, especially in patients with CNS disorders or compromised renal function.
- Prescribe only after appropriate susceptibility testing for severe infections.
- Awareness of potential for C. difficile infection (CDI) is essential.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel better.
- Report any severe or persistent side effects to your healthcare provider immediately.
- Do not use for viral infections (e.g., common cold or flu).
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.
Missed Dose Advice
Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose. Contact your doctor for advice.
Driving Precautions
Meropenem may cause side effects like headache, dizziness, or seizures, which could impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Exercise caution until you know how you react to the medication.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain adequate hydration.
- Ensure sufficient rest to aid recovery.
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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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