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

Meropenem

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Molecule Description

Meropenem is a powerful antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections, especially when other antibiotics have not worked. It works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection and preventing them from multiplying further. Doctors usually give Meropenem by injection or drip in a hospital setting so it can act quickly and effectively. It is commonly used to treat infections of the lungs, abdomen, brain, urinary tract, and skin. Because it is a strong medicine, your doctor will monitor you closely for improvement and any side effects, and it is important to complete the full treatment course even if you start feeling better.

Uses

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

When should one not use Meropenem

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

Side effects

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

Pregnancy

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

Breast Feeding

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

Driving

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

Alcohol

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

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 survival of bacteria in the human body.

Interactions

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), Divalproex Sodium, blood thinners.

Interactions with food items

No specific interactions with food have been reported.

Dosage

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 overdose may be severe and need immediate medical attention.

Missed a Dose

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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.