meropenem (Merrem)

Meropenem is an injectable carbapenem antibiotic. It is similar to impenem and cilastin (Primaxin). Meropenem prevents bacteria from forming the walls that surround them. The walls are necessary to protect bacteria from their environment and to keep the contents of the bacterial cell together. Bacteria cannot survive without a cell wall. Meropenem is effective against susceptible strains of E. coli, H. influenzae, K. pneumoniae, N. meningitidis, P. aeruginosa, and many other bacteria.

The FDA approved meropenem in June 1996.

What brand names are available for meropenem-injection?

Merrem

Is meropenem-injection available as a generic drug?

Yes

Do I need a prescription for meropenem injection?

Yes

Common side effects of meropenem are:

Injection site pain and inflammation

• Rash
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache

Serious reactions rarely may occur such as:

• Cardiovascular arrest
• Bowel obstruction
• Kidney failure
• Seizures

Serious hypersensitivity (allergic) reactions may occur.

• For the treatment of complicated skin infections in adults, 500 mg to 2 grams should be administered intravenously every 8 hours.
• For abdominal infections, 1 to 2 grams should be administered intravenously every 8 hours.

Meropenem should not be combined with valproic acid (Depakene) or divalproex (Depakote) because meropenem may reduce absorption of valproic acid and divalproex from the intestine and increase elimination of the drugs through the kidneys thereby reducing the levels of these drugs in the body and reducing their effectiveness.

Probenecid (Benemid) may increase levels of meropenem by reducing its elimination through the kidneys. Increased levels of meropenem in the body could increase side effects like nausea, vomiting, and headache.

Safe and effective use of meropenem is not established in pregnant females. Therefore, it should be used only if clearly needed.

It is not known whether meropenem enters breast milk.

What preparations of meropenem-injection are available?

Intravenous powder for solution: 500 mg/vial and 1 gram/vial.

How should I keep meropenem-injection stored?

Meropenem should be stored at room temperature, 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F).