Meropenem IV 500 mg

Who is this for?

Meropenem is a very strong antibiotic given through injection (drip or IV) that works by killing a wide range of bacteria. It belongs to a powerful group of antibiotics called carbapenems, which are usually reserved for serious infections that other antibiotics cannot handle.

Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins and preventing peptidoglycan cross-linking, resulting in cell wall degradation and bactericidal activity against gram-positive, gram-negative, and anaerobic organisms.

Is Meropenem safe to take with another drug?

This drug is NOT taken by mouth — it is given as an injection into your vein (IV) by a doctor or nurse in a hospital. The usual adult dose is 500 mg to 1 g given every 8 hours. For very serious infections like meningitis, the dose may be increased to 2 g every 8 hours. Your doctor will decide the exact dose and how long you need it based on how serious your infection is.

Since this drug is given by healthcare workers in a hospital, missed doses are rare. However, if a dose is missed, it should be given as soon as possible and the regular schedule resumed. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

• Diarrhoea or loose stool
• nausea and vomiting
• headache
• rash or itching at the injection site
• stomach pain

Valproic acid (a drug used for epilepsy/convulsions) — Meropenem can seriously reduce its effectiveness, making seizures more likely. Probenecid (used for gout) — can increase the level of Meropenem in your blood and raise the risk of side effects. Always tell your doctor about every drug you are currently taking before starting Meropenem.

Store the unopened powder vials at room temperature, below 30°C — avoid direct sunlight and damp areas, which is important in Nigeria's humid climate. Once mixed with water for injection, it should be used within the time your pharmacist specifies (usually within a few hours). Keep away from children at all times.