About meropenem
Carbapenem antibiotic
Used for
- Treats serious infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including pneumonia, abdominal infections, meningitis, and sepsis.
Usual adult dose
Usually 0.5–1 g intravenously every 8 hours; up to 2 g every 8 hours for some infections. Dose depends on infection and kidney function.
Usual dose in children
Usually 10–20 mg/kg intravenously every 8 hours; up to 40 mg/kg for meningitis, maximum 2 g per dose. Age and infection affect dosing.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or rash
- Injection-site pain or inflammation
- Headache
- Abnormal liver tests or blood counts
Important warnings
- For intravenous use under healthcare supervision.
- Adjust dose for impaired kidney function.
- Serious allergic reactions can occur, especially with beta-lactam allergy.
- Antibiotics can cause severe, persistent diarrhea.
Pregnancy
Use during pregnancy only when clearly needed; clinical assessment is required.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter breast milk; infant diarrhea or thrush is possible.
Interactions
- Valproate: meropenem can sharply lower levels and increase seizure risk.
- Probenecid can increase meropenem exposure.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.