Indications

Antibiotic

Contraindication

Hypersensitivity to meropenem, other carbapenems. History of anaphylactic reaction to β-lactams (e.g. penicillins, cephalosporins).

Special Precautions

Patient w/ underlying CNS disorders (e.g. brain lesions, history of seizures. Not recommended for treatment of MRSA. Renal impairment. Childn. Pregnancy and lactation. Monitoring Parameters Monitor for signs of anaphylaxis during 1st dose. Periodically assess renal, hepatic, and haematopoietic functions during prolonged therapy.

Side Effects

GI effects (e.g. diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, constipation), local reactions (e.g. pain and inflammation at inj site, phlebitis or thrombophlebitis), disturbances in LFTs, positive direct or indirect Coombs' test, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, thrombocythaemia, headache, haemolytic anaemia, rash, pruritus, sepsis, apnoea, shock, glossitis, and oral candidiasis. Rarely, convulsions.

Drug Interactions

Increased plasma concentration w/ probenecid. May decrease plasma levels of valproic acid thus, increasing the risk of seizures.

Route of Administration

Intravenous

Dosage

As directed by the physician