Meropenem – A Broad-Spectrum Carbapenem Antibiotic
Meropenem is a broad-spectrum carbapenem antibiotic used for severe bacterial infections. It is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including drug-resistant strains.
Drug Class
- Class: Carbapenem antibiotic
- Mechanism of Action: It inhibits the synthesis of bacteria. It leads to bacterial death.
- Type: Beta-lactam antibiotic
Pharmacokinetics & Pharmacodynamics
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption
Meropenem is given via IV injection, with 100% bioavailability.
- Distribution
It is widely distributed, including penetration into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
- Metabolism
Its Minimal metabolism is in the liver.
- Excretion
It is excreted via the kidneys (70% unchanged in urine).
- Half-Life
Its half-life is 1 hour (extended in renal impairment).
Pharmacodynamics
- Bactericidal Activity
It is a Time-dependent action that kills bacteria.
- Post-Antibiotic Effect
It is effective against most pathogens even after drug levels fall.
Uses of Meropenem
Meropenem is used to treat serious bacterial infections, which are given below.
- Bacterial Meningitis
- Hospital-acquired Pneumonia
- Complicated Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
- Intra-abdominal Infections
- Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
- Sepsis and Bloodstream Infections
- Febrile Neutropenia in Immunocompromised Patients
Side Effects of Meropenem
Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Injection site reactions
Serious Side Effects
- Seizures (higher risk in renal impairment)
- Liver enzyme elevation
- Kidney dysfunction
- Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction)
- Blood disorders (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia)
Dosage & Administration
Adults Dose
500mg – 1g IV every 8 hours
- In case of Severe Infections, the dose is up to 2g IV every 8 hours
- Pediatric dose
For Children (≥3 months), the dose is 20-40 mg/kg IV every 8 hours
- In case of Renal Impairment, adjust dose according to requirement.
Contraindications
Meropenem should be avoided under the following conditions.
- Patients allergic to carbapenems or beta-lactam antibiotics
- Severe renal failure (without dose adjustment)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (use only if essential)
Drug Interactions
Meropenem can have interactions with the following medications when administered at the same time.
- Valproic Acid – Reduces valproic acid levels, increasing seizure risk.
- Probenecid – Increases Meropenem levels, leading to toxicity.
- Other Beta-Lactam Antibiotics – Risk of allergic cross-reactivity.
Popular Brand Names of Meropenem
Below is a table of commonly available Meropenem brands.
| Brand Name | Strength | Formulation | Manufacturer |
| Merrem | 500mg, 1g | IV Injection | AstraZeneca |
| Meronem | 500mg, 1g | IV Injection | Pfizer |
| Mero IV | 500mg, 1g | IV Injection | Sun Pharma |
| Merotrol | 1g | IV Injection | Cipla |
Conclusion
Meropenem is a life-saving antibiotic for critical bacterial infections. Monitor the patient’s condition carefully because it may have some side effects. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting treatment.