VB Speciality Drugs

Strength	1 gm
Pack Type	Vial
Prescription/Non Prescription	Prescription
Also Gives	Third Party Manufacturing
Country of Origin	Made in India

Meropenem is a broad-spectrum antibiotic belonging to the carbapenem class, used primarily for treating severe bacterial infections. It is effective against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including those resistant to other antibiotics.

Indications

Meropenem injection is indicated for:

• Complicated intra-abdominal infections
• Meningitis (bacterial)
• Complicated skin and soft tissue infections
• Complicated urinary tract infections
• Hospital-acquired pneumonia, including ventilator-associated pneumonia
• Sepsis

Mechanism of Action

Meropenem works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) and disrupts the cell wall formation process, leading to bacterial cell lysis and death.

Dosage and Administration

Meropenem is administered intravenously. The dosage varies based on the type and severity of the infection, patient age, kidney function, and body weight. Common dosages include:

• Adults and children over 50 kg: 500 mg to 2 g every 8 hours, depending on the infection.
• Children and infants (3 months and older): 10 to 40 mg/kg every 8 hours.
• Neonates (less than 3 months): 20 to 30 mg/kg every 8 to 12 hours.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Rash
• Injection site inflammation

Serious but less common side effects may include:

• Severe allergic reactions
• Seizures
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
• Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)

Contraindications and Precautions

• Hypersensitivity to meropenem or other carbapenems.
• Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures or other CNS disorders.
• Adjust dose in patients with renal impairment.
• Monitor for signs of anaphylaxis during the first dose.

Drug Interactions

• Valproic acid: Meropenem can reduce the blood levels of valproic acid, potentially leading to loss of seizure control.
• Probenecid: Can increase meropenem levels by decreasing its renal excretion, leading to potential toxicity.