Product Description

Indications:

Neopenem is used for the treatment of serious bacterial infections in adults and children, including pneumonia (including hospital-acquired), urinary tract infections, intra-abdominal infections, gynaecological infections, skin and soft tissue infections, meningitis, septicaemia, pulmonary infections in cystic fibrosis and empiric treatment of febrile neutropenia.

Pharmacology:

Meropenem is a broad-spectrum carbapenem antibiotic that kills bacteria by inhibiting cell wall synthesis. It is highly stable against beta-lactamases and is effective against a wide range of Gram-positive, Gram-negative, aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.

Dosage and Administration:

Adults usually receive 500 mg to 1 g intravenously every 8 hours, depending on infection severity. Higher doses (up to 2 g every 8 hours) may be used in severe conditions like meningitis or cystic fibrosis.

Children (3 months–12 years) receive 10–40 mg/kg IV every 8 hours depending on the infection. Children over 50 kg should receive adult doses.

Administer by IV infusion over 15–30 minutes or as IV bolus over 3–5 minutes.

Drug Interactions:

Probenecid increases meropenem levels by reducing its excretion. Meropenem may decrease serum valproic acid levels, reducing its effectiveness.

Contraindications:

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to meropenem or related antibiotics.

Side Effects:

Generally well tolerated. Possible effects include injection site pain, inflammation, rash, itching, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and headache.

Precautions and Warnings:

Discontinue if allergic reactions occur. Use cautiously in patients with liver disease and monitor liver function.

Pregnancy and Lactation:

Use during pregnancy only if clearly necessary. Caution is advised in breastfeeding mothers as the drug may pass into breast milk.

Use in Special Populations:

Dose adjustment is required in renal impairment. No adjustment is needed in mild liver disease or in elderly unless renal function is reduced. Safety in infants below 3 months is not established.

Overdose Effects:

Overdose is usually managed symptomatically. In renal impairment, haemodialysis can remove the drug.

Therapeutic Class:

Beta-lactam Antibiotic (Carbapenem)

Reconstitution:

Reconstitute with sterile water for injection for IV bolus or dilute with compatible IV fluids for infusion. Use freshly prepared solution when possible.

Storage Conditions:

Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protect from light and moisture, and keep out of reach of children.

⚠️ Use only under the supervision of a registered healthcare professional.