Meropenem

Meropenem is an ultra-broad spectrum injectable bile, heart valves, lung, and peritoneal fluid.^[1]

Mechanism of action

Meropenem is bactericidal except against Listeria monocytogenes where it is bacteriostatic. It inhibits bacterial wall synthesis like other cilastatin.

Indications

The spectrum of action includes many gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and even some anaerobic bacteria. The overall spectrum is similar to imipenem although meropenem is more active against Enterobacteriaceae and less active against gram-positive bacteria. It is also very resistant to extended-spectrum beta lactamases but may be more susceptible to metallo-beta-lactamases.^[1] However, meropenem should not be used to treat MRSA infections.

Administration

Meropenem must be administered intravenously. It is supplied as a white crystalline powder to be dissolved in 5% monobasic potassium phosphate solution.

Common adverse effects

The most common adverse effects are diarrhea (4.8%), nausea and vomiting (3.6%), injection-site inflammation (2.4%), headache (2.3%), rash (1.9%), and thrombophlebitis (0.9%).^[2] Many of these adverse effects were observed in the setting of severely ill individuals who were already taking many medications. Meropenem also has a reduced potential for causing seizures in comparison with imipenem.

References