Meropex
Generic Name
Meropenem
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| meropex 1 gm injection | ৳ 1,200.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Meropex 1 gm Injection contains Meropenem, a broad-spectrum carbapenem antibiotic used to treat a wide range of serious bacterial infections, especially in hospitalized patients. It is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including anaerobic strains.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 500 mg to 1 gm IV every 8 hours, depending on infection severity and type. For meningitis, 2 gm IV every 8 hours.
Elderly
Dosage adjustment may be necessary based on renal function.
Renal_impairment
Dosage must be reduced based on creatinine clearance (e.g., CrCl 26-50 mL/min: 1 gm q12h; CrCl 10-25 mL/min: 500 mg q12h; CrCl <10 mL/min: 500 mg q24h).
How to Take
Administer intravenously by infusion over 15-30 minutes or by bolus injection (5-20 mL) over 3-5 minutes, depending on the dose and patient condition. Reconstitute the powder with sterile water for injection or compatible intravenous fluids.
Mechanism of Action
Meropenem is a carbapenem antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). This leads to the disruption of bacterial cell wall formation and ultimately cell lysis and death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid (within minutes for IV infusion).
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 after IV administration.
Metabolism
Minimal hepatic metabolism; about 20% is metabolized to an inactive open β-lactam ring metabolite.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to meropenem or other carbapenems
- Severe hypersensitivity to other beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g., penicillins, cephalosporins)
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Probenecid competes with meropenem for active tubular secretion, resulting in increased meropenem plasma concentrations and prolonged half-life. Co-administration should be avoided unless necessary.
Valproic acid
Meropenem may decrease valproic acid serum concentrations, leading to a loss of seizure control. Co-administration is generally not recommended.
Oral Anticoagulants
Concomitant administration of antibiotics with warfarin has been reported to increase anticoagulant effects. Close monitoring of INR is advised.
Storage
Store the dry powder below 25°C (77°F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Reconstituted solutions should be used immediately or stored as per specific manufacturer guidelines, usually for a limited time under refrigeration.
Overdose
In case of overdose, discontinue Meropenem and initiate general 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; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to meropenem or other carbapenems
- Severe hypersensitivity to other beta-lactam antibiotics (e.g., penicillins, cephalosporins)
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Probenecid competes with meropenem for active tubular secretion, resulting in increased meropenem plasma concentrations and prolonged half-life. Co-administration should be avoided unless necessary.
Valproic acid
Meropenem may decrease valproic acid serum concentrations, leading to a loss of seizure control. Co-administration is generally not recommended.
Oral Anticoagulants
Concomitant administration of antibiotics with warfarin has been reported to increase anticoagulant effects. Close monitoring of INR is advised.
Storage
Store the dry powder below 25°C (77°F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Reconstituted solutions should be used immediately or stored as per specific manufacturer guidelines, usually for a limited time under refrigeration.
Overdose
In case of overdose, discontinue Meropenem and initiate general 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; 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 from manufacturing date when stored correctly.
Availability
Hospitals and retail pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Patent expired (generic available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Meropenem has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety across a broad spectrum of severe bacterial infections, including those in critical care settings. Ongoing research continues to evaluate its role in combating emerging antibiotic resistance and in specific patient populations.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (creatinine, BUN)
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST, bilirubin)
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Culture and sensitivity testing for infection
Doctor Notes
- Consider Meropenem as a first-line agent for severe, complicated infections, particularly when resistant Gram-negative pathogens are suspected.
- Strictly adhere to dosage adjustments in patients with renal impairment to prevent accumulation and toxicity.
- Monitor for neurological adverse effects, especially in patients with a history of CNS disorders or seizure activity.
- Advise patients about the critical importance of completing the full course of therapy to minimize resistance development.
- Be mindful of potential drug interactions, notably with valproic acid, and adjust treatment accordingly.
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 immediately to your healthcare provider.
- Do not use this medicine for viral infections like the common cold or flu, as it is an antibiotic.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, especially valproic acid.
- This medicine must be administered by a healthcare professional.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, administer it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Meropenem may cause dizziness or seizures. Patients should be advised to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how the drug affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain adequate hydration by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Follow good hygiene practices to prevent further infections and the spread of bacteria.
- Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment if it exacerbates side effects.
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