Meropenem

Molecule Description

Meropenem is an antibiotic used in the treatment of severe bacterial infections

when other commonly used antibiotics have failed.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Meropenem

Infection of covering of brain and spinal cord (meningitis)
Skin and skin structure infections like cellulitis
Infection affecting the lungs (pneumonia)
Complicated urinary tract infections
Complicated infections of the stomach and intestine

Contraindications of Meropenem

When should one not use Meropenem

Have allergic reaction to Meropenem, Penicillins or Cephalosporins
Breastfeeding
Have kidney disease

Side effects of Meropenem

Common side effects of this drug are:

Severe allergic reactions - skin rash, itchy skin, swelling of face, vomiting, nausea
Stomach pain
Headache
Rise in numbers of platelets in the blood
Red or brown urine
Fits
Sore veins where Meronem is injected
Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
Black, bloody or tarry stools
Burning sensation while urinating

Precautions and Warnings of Meropenem

Pregnancy

Can I take Meropenem during pregnancy?

It is preferable to avoid this medicine during pregnancy as sufficient data is not avaialble to prove it’s safety.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Meropenem while breastfeeding?

Small amounts of this medicine may pass into breast milk. Take only if prescribed by your doctor.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Meropenem?

Caution is advised as this medicine can cause muscle movements beyond your control or fits.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Meropenem?

No known interactions are known to occur.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

Fits
Brain disease
Kidney or liver disease

Mode of Action of Meropenem

How Does It Work?

Meropenem prevents the growth of bacteria by attacking their cell wall, which results in the prevention of synthesis of peptidoglycan which provides the cell wall with the strength required for the su...

Interactions of Meropenem

Interactions with other medicines

Meropenem can cause a severe problem when taken with few medicines at the same time. Inform your physician if you are taking any of like Probenecid (used for gout), Valproic Acid (used for epilepsy), ...

Interactions with food items

No specific interactions with food have been reported.

Dosage of Meropenem

Overdose

The symptoms of overdose can be – headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, etc. If you happen to receive an overdose of the medicine, seek emergency medical care immediately. The effects of an overdo...

Missed a Dose

Do not have a double dose (two injections at the same time) to make up for a missed dose.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Arpit Verma

MBBS, MD CCEBDM Diabetology

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking Meropenem?

A: Inform the doctor about your detailed medical, surgical and allergy history. Inform your physician if you have any of the conditions like kidney disease, history of head injury, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.

References

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Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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