Meropenem is useful in case of complicated infections of the skin caused by some strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus agalactiae, viridans streptococci, vancomycin-resistant Enterococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Bacteroides fragilis and some species Peptostreptococcus.
It is also used in cases of complicated appendicitis caused by viridans streptococci, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacteroides fragilis, Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron and Peptostreptococcus species.
Lastly, it is useful in the treatment of bacterial meningitis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, some strains of Haemophilus influenzae and Neisseria meningitidis.
What is Meropenem?
Meropenem is an antibiotic that works by inhibiting the synthesis of the cell wall of the bacteria.
How should Meropenem be taken?
Typically, Meropenem is administered intravenously.
Side effects associated with Meropenem
The side effects more commonly associated with Meropenem are redness and swelling at the point where it the drug is injected.
Other possible side effects may include the following:
- Constipation
- Cyanosis of the lips or skin
- Chills
- Cold sweats
- Confusion
- Dizziness or feeling faint or lightheaded
- Rapid heartbeat
- Rapid or weak pulse
- Fever
- Itching or skin rash
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Meropenem
Before taking Meropenem, it is important to inform your doctor:
- If you have any allergies to medicines, especially antibiotics
- If you are taking any medicinal products, herbal supplements or remedies. Mentioning in particular: probenecid, valproic acid, divalproex, and drugs that increase the risk of seizures
- If you suffer (or have suffered) from liver or kidney disease, bacterial meningitis, seizures or problems of the central nervous system (e.g. brain injury)
- If you are on dialysis
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
