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 500 mg injection | ৳ 700.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Meropenem is a broad-spectrum carbapenem antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of serious bacterial infections. It works by killing the bacteria that cause these infections.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 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
No specific dose adjustment for elderly patients based on age alone; however, renal function should be assessed and dose adjusted accordingly.
Renal_impairment
Dose adjustment is required based on creatinine clearance (CrCl). For CrCl 26-50 mL/min: 1 adult unit dose every 12 hours. For CrCl 10-25 mL/min: 1 adult unit dose every 24 hours. For CrCl <10 mL/min: half adult unit dose every 24 hours.
How to Take
Administer intravenously by infusion over 15 to 30 minutes, or by intravenous bolus injection over approximately 5 minutes for doses up to 1 g.
Mechanism of Action
Meropenem is a bactericidal antibiotic that acts by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis in Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs).
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid onset of action.
Excretion
Excreted predominantly by the kidneys, approximately 70% as unchanged drug and 30% as the inactive metabolite.
Half life
Approximately 1 hour in adults with normal renal function.
Absorption
Rapid and complete absorption after intravenous administration.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized by hydrolysis of the beta-lactam ring to an inactive metabolite. Minimal hepatic metabolism.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to meropenem or other carbapenem antibiotics.
- Severe hypersensitivity to any other type of beta-lactam antibacterial agent (e.g., penicillins, cephalosporins or monobactams).
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Increases plasma concentration and prolongs the half-life of meropenem by inhibiting renal tubular secretion.
Valproic Acid
Co-administration with meropenem may decrease valproic acid plasma concentrations, leading to subtherapeutic levels.
Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased anticoagulant effect may occur; monitor INR frequently.
Storage
Store dry powder vials below 25-30°C, protected from light. Reconstituted solutions should be used immediately or stored as per specific manufacturer guidelines (e.g., refrigerated for a limited time).
Overdose
In the event of an overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Meropenem can be removed by hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use in pregnancy only if clearly needed after careful risk-benefit assessment. Meropenem is excreted in breast milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to meropenem or other carbapenem antibiotics.
- Severe hypersensitivity to any other type of beta-lactam antibacterial agent (e.g., penicillins, cephalosporins or monobactams).
Drug Interactions
Probenecid
Increases plasma concentration and prolongs the half-life of meropenem by inhibiting renal tubular secretion.
Valproic Acid
Co-administration with meropenem may decrease valproic acid plasma concentrations, leading to subtherapeutic levels.
Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased anticoagulant effect may occur; monitor INR frequently.
Storage
Store dry powder vials below 25-30°C, protected from light. Reconstituted solutions should be used immediately or stored as per specific manufacturer guidelines (e.g., refrigerated for a limited time).
Overdose
In the event of an overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Meropenem can be removed by hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use in pregnancy only if clearly needed after careful risk-benefit assessment. Meropenem is excreted in breast milk; 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 for the powder. Reconstituted solution has specific, shorter stability periods.
Availability
Available in hospitals and pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., DGDA, FDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent (generic versions available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Meropenem has undergone extensive clinical trials establishing its efficacy and safety. Ongoing research explores its role in multidrug-resistant infections and new indications.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (e.g., creatinine, BUN) periodically, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
- Liver function tests (e.g., AST, ALT) if abnormalities are suspected.
- Complete blood count (CBC) with differential, particularly during prolonged therapy.
- Culture and sensitivity tests to confirm bacterial susceptibility.
Doctor Notes
- Meropenem is an important empiric therapy option for severe nosocomial or community-acquired infections, especially in critically ill patients.
- Careful dose adjustment is crucial in patients with renal impairment to avoid accumulation and potential neurotoxicity.
- Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity reactions, especially in patients with a history of allergy to other beta-lactam antibiotics.
Patient Guidelines
- It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve.
- Report any adverse reactions or new symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, administer it as soon as remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the 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 meropenem affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent secondary infections.
- Ensure adequate hydration during treatment.
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