Meropenem
Meropenem is an intravenous broad spectrum antibiotic derived from thienamycin. The actions, uses and adverse effects are similar to those of imipenem but unlike imipenem it does not need the addition of Cilastatin to prolong its action. It has a slightly greater activity against gram-negative aerobes and slightly less activity against gram positive anaerobes. Antibiotics require constant drug level in body for therapeutic effect. This is attained by taking the medicine at regular intervel of time throughout the day and night as prescribed.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Beta Lactum.
It belongs to Peptidoglycan synthesis inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antibiotics pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 437.5 · pKa: 2.9, 7.8 · Solubility in Water: sparingly soluble · Solubility in Alcohol: very slightly soluble · Non-proprietary name: Meropenem.
Pharmacokinetics
Distribution: Meropenem has a volume of distribution is 0.3-0.4 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 2-12%.
Elimination: plasma half-life is 1-1.5 hr, renal excretion is 70%.
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Indications
Meropenem is primarily indicated in conditions like Abdominal sepsis, Adult febrile neutropenia, Gynecological infections, Meningitis, Obstetric infections, Pneumonia, Pulmonary infections in cystic fibrosis, Septicaemia, Serious infections, Surface anaesthetic, Surgical anaesthesia.
Contraindications
Meropenem is contraindicated in conditions like GI diseases, Hypersensitivity.
Dosage
Meropenem's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 750 mg | 750 mg | Every 8h | IV | As required For meningitis |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 40 mg/kg | 40 mg/kg | — | For meningitis | |
| 20 mg/kg | 20 mg/kg | — | Intra Venous | For Paeds of all Ages |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 7.142 mg/kg | 7.142 mg/kg | Every 8h | Intra Venous | As required |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Meropenem in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Pseudomembranous colitis , Thrombocytopenia , Stevens johnson syndrome , Stevens johnson syndrome , Eosinophilia , Eosinophilia , Seizures .
Meropenem produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Hypersensitivity reactions. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
Meropenem is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal pain, Constipation , Dermatitis, Diarrhea, Elevation of liver enzymes, Fever, Headache, Nausea, Pruritus , Rashes , Reaction at injection site, Urticaria, Vomiting .
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Meropenem may interfere in the diagnosis of Positive Coombs Test .
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.6.2.1.4 — Other inhibitors of cell wall synthesis
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Meropenem in Pakistan: