Meronem Injection 500mg (Meropenem) — 1 Vial

Description

Meronem (500mg) Injection contains Meropenem, a broad-spectrum carbapenem antibiotic used for the treatment of severe bacterial infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms. It works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, thereby killing bacteria and preventing their spread. It is commonly used in hospitals for serious and life-threatening infections.

Ingredients

• Active ingredient: Meropenem 500mg (as meropenem trihydrate)

• Excipients: Sodium carbonate

Drug Class

• Carbapenem antibiotic (β-lactam class)

Dosage Form

• Powder for solution for intravenous injection or infusion

Uses / Indications

Meronem is indicated for the treatment of:

• Severe pneumonia (including hospital-acquired and ventilator-associated)

• Sepsis and bloodstream infections

• Intra-abdominal infections (e.g., peritonitis)

• Urinary tract infections (complicated)

• Skin and soft tissue infections

• Meningitis (in children and adults)

• Empirical therapy for febrile neutropenia

Dosage

• Adults: 500mg to 1g every 8 hours IV, depending on severity and infection site

• Children (>3 months): 10–40mg/kg every 8 hours IV

• Meningitis (children): Up to 40mg/kg every 8 hours IV

• Renal impairment: Dose adjustment required

• Must be administered by healthcare professionals only

In Case of Overdose

• Symptoms: Seizures, confusion, tremors, gastrointestinal upset

• Management: Stop medication, provide supportive treatment, hemodialysis may help eliminate drug

Missed Dose

• If a dose is missed, administer as soon as possible under medical supervision

• Do not double dose; continue regular schedule

How To Use

• Administered via intravenous injection (bolus over 5 minutes) or infusion (15–30 minutes)

• Reconstitute powder with sterile water or compatible IV solution

• Use immediately after preparation or within recommended stability period

When Not to Use / Contraindications

• Known allergy to meropenem, other carbapenems, or β-lactam antibiotics

• History of severe hypersensitivity (anaphylaxis) to penicillins or cephalosporins

• Use with caution in patients with epilepsy or seizure disorders

Side Effects

Common:

• Headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

• Rash, pruritus

• Injection site pain

Serious:

• Severe allergic reactions (swelling, difficulty breathing)

• Seizures or convulsions

• Severe diarrhea due to Clostridium difficile

• Blood count changes (anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia)

• Elevated liver enzymes

Precautions & Warnings

• Use cautiously in patients with renal or hepatic impairment

• May cause seizures in patients with CNS disorders

• Monitor renal function, liver function, and blood counts during prolonged use

• May reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives — use backup contraception

• Not effective against viral infections (flu, cold)

Drug Interactions

• Valproic acid / Sodium valproate: Decreases blood levels, risk of seizures

• Probenecid: Increases Meropenem levels (not recommended)

• Other β-lactam antibiotics: May increase side effects

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): May increase bleeding risk

Storage / Disposal

• Store below 25°C in a dry place

• Protect from light and moisture

• Use immediately after reconstitution or as per stability guidelines

• Keep out of reach of children

• Discard unused or expired vials safely as per hospital protocol

Control Drug / Prescription Status

• Prescription-only medicine

Quick Tips

• Meronem is used for serious hospital infections only — never self-administer

• Complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve

• Report seizures, severe diarrhea, or allergic reactions immediately

• Stay well hydrated during treatment

• Only healthcare professionals should prepare and administer this injection