Composition:
⦁ Each vial contains:
• Meropenem 500 mg (as sterile powder)
• Suitable excipients
Uses:
⦁ Broad-spectrum carbapenem antibiotic for serious bacterial infections, including:
• Lower respiratory tract infections (pneumonia)
• Complicated intra-abdominal infections
• Complicated urinary tract infections
• Skin & soft tissue infections
• Septicemia, bacteremia, febrile neutropenia
• Meningitis (higher dose recommended)
Benefits:
⦁ Highly effective against Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and anaerobic bacteria.
⦁ Resistant to most beta-lactamases, including ESBLs.
⦁ Rapid bactericidal action, suitable for critically ill patients.
⦁ Lower nephrotoxicity risk compared to aminoglycosides.
Dosage & Administration:
⦁ Adults: 500 mg IV every 8 hours (mild to moderate infections).
⦁ Severe infections or meningitis: higher doses (up to 1–2 g every 8 hours) may be required.
⦁ Administer as IV bolus (5 min) or IV infusion (15–30 min).
⦁ Adjust dose in patients with renal impairment (CrCl <50 mL/min).
⦁ Duration of therapy typically 7–14 days or as clinically indicated. Precautions:
⦁ Contraindicated in patients allergic to carbapenems or beta-lactam antibiotics.
⦁ Use with caution in seizure-prone patients or those with CNS disorders.
⦁ Monitor renal function during prolonged therapy.
⦁ Evaluate for Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea if severe GI symptoms occur.
Side Effects:
⦁ Common: headache, nausea, diarrhea, rash, injection site pain.
⦁ Rare: seizures (mainly in patients with renal impairment or CNS disorders), hypersensitivity reactions.
Storage:
⦁ Store below 25°C, protect from light and moisture.
⦁ Reconstituted solution should be used immediately or within recommended stability time.
⦁ Keep out of reach of children.
