See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Meropenem
Meropenem is indicated for the treatment of complicated infections caused by susceptible bacteria [1]. These include:
What specific infections does meropenem treat?
Meropenem is used for complicated intra-abdominal infections, complicated skin and skin structure infections, and complicated pneumonia, including hospital-acquired and ventilator-associated pneumonia [1]. It is also indicated for bacterial meningitis and bacteremia in patients with known or suspected infections caused by susceptible bacteria [1].
What bacteria are susceptible to meropenem?
Meropenem has demonstrated activity against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative aerobic and anaerobic bacteria [1]. Specific organisms susceptible to meropenem include Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible isolates only), Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Enterococcus faecalis (vancomycin-susceptible isolates), Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacteroides fragilis, and Clostridium perfringens [1].
How does meropenem work?
Meropenem is a carbapenem antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis [2]. It binds to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), which are essential enzymes involved in the final stages of peptidoglycan synthesis [2]. By inhibiting these PBPs, meropenem disrupts the formation of the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell lysis and death [2].
When was meropenem first approved?
Meropenem was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1996 [3].
What is the typical dosage for meropenem?
Dosage recommendations vary based on the type and severity of infection, as well as patient factors such as renal function [1]. For complicated intra-abdominal infections, complicated skin and skin structure infections, and complicated pneumonia, the typical adult dose is 1 gram administered intravenously every 8 hours [1]. For bacterial meningitis and bacteremia, the usual adult dose is 2 grams intravenously every 8 hours [1]. Dosing adjustments are necessary for patients with impaired renal function [1].
Are there any alternatives to meropenem for these infections?
Other antibiotic classes may be used depending on the specific pathogen and local resistance patterns. These can include other beta-lactams, fluoroquinolones, or aminoglycosides, often in combination therapy [4]. The choice of antibiotic is guided by susceptibility testing and clinical guidelines [4].
What are the potential side effects of meropenem?
Common side effects of meropenem include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, rash, and phlebitis at the injection site [1]. More serious adverse effects can include severe allergic reactions, Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea, and seizures [1].
Are there any specific patient populations for whom meropenem use is cautioned?
Caution is advised when prescribing meropenem to patients with a history of hypersensitivity to beta-lactam antibiotics, as cross-reactivity can occur [1]. Patients with severe renal impairment require dose adjustments [1].
What are the patent and exclusivity details for meropenem?
The original patents for meropenem have expired, leading to the availability of generic versions. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent information for pharmaceuticals, which would include details on expired and any remaining patents for meropenem and its formulations [5]. The introduction of generic meropenem has increased market competition.
Who manufactures meropenem?
Meropenem is manufactured by various pharmaceutical companies, including both originator and generic drug manufacturers. For example, the originator product in the U.S. was originally marketed as Merrem by Merck & Co., Inc. [3].
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Sources
1. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/050658s028,050726s015,050774s007lbl.pdf
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8837201/
3. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-for-patients-and-providers/drug-approvals-and-databases
4. https://www.idsociety.org/practice-guideline/idsa-guidelines-for-the-management-of-infectious-diarrhea/
5. https://drugpatentwatch.com/