Meropenem

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

Patient with CNS disorder (e.g. brain lesions, history of seizures). Renal and hepatic impairment. Children. Pregnancy and lactation. Patient Counselling This drug may cause seizure, headache, paraesthesia, and delirium, if affected, do not drive or operate machinery. Monitoring Parameters Perform culture and sensitivity testing prior to initiation of therapy. Monitor renal function, LFT, CBC (prolonged use). Monitor for signs of anaphylaxis during 1st dose.

Significant: Confusional states and seizure; severe cutaneous reactions (e.g. Stevens-Johnson syndrome [SJS], toxic epidermal necrolysis [TEN], drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms [DRESS], erythema multiforme, acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis); fungal or bacterial superinfection including C. difficile-associated diarrhoea. Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Thrombocythaemia, anaemia. Gastrointestinal disorders: Diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, constipation. General disorders and administration site conditions: Injection site inflammation, pain. Investigations: Increased transaminases, increased alkaline phosphatase, increased lactate dehydrogenase. Nervous system disorders: Headache. Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Rash, pruritus.
Potentially Fatal: Hypersensitivity reactions (e.g. anaphylaxis), antibiotic-associated or pseudomembranous colitis.

Increased plasma concentration and prolonged elimination half-life with probenecid. May decrease plasma levels of valproic acid, thus increasing the risk of seizures. May enhance anticoagulant effect of warfarin.

Other Beta-Lactams

J01DH02 - meropenem ; Belongs to the class of carbapenems. Used in the systemic treatment of infections.