Urology-Textbook.com

Up-to-date urology insights from Dirk Manski

 You are here: Urology Textbook > Drugs in Urology > Meropenem

Meropenem: Mechanism of Action, Side Effects and Dosage

Meropenem is a broad-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotic from the carbapenem group and is effective against a broad spectrum of both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

Mechanism of Action:

Meropenem inhibits the peptidoglycan synthesis of the bacterial wall: it binds to so-called penicillin-binding proteins (peptidoglycan synthetases) and inhibits the polymerization of the peptidoglycan and covalent cross-linking of the bacterial wall. Meropenem is very stable against beta-lactamases, including ESBL.

Antibiotic Spectrum of Meropenem:

A broad spectrum of activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas, enterococci, and anaerobes. Compared to imipenem, it has a broader antibiotic spectrumin against gram-negative bacteria, but is somewhat weaker in against gram-positive bacteria (such as enterococci).

Urological Indications for Meropenem:

Reserve antibiotic for severe complicated urinary tract infections (pyelonephritis, catheter-associated infections, prostatitis, epididymitis) and urosepsis, after the failure of other broad-spectrum antibiotics or for treatment of multi-resistant bacteria.

Pharmacokinetics of Meropenem:

Side Effects of Meropenem

Meropenem is better tolerated than imipenem.

Drug Interactions:

Meropenem lowers the valproic acid level. An increase in INR is possible when given together with warfarin.

Contraindications:

Allergy to carbapenems, history of seizures, or CNS disorders. Use with caution in cases of allergy to penicillin or cephalosporins or during pregnancy.

Dosage of Meropenem






Index: 1–9 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

References

Simon und Stille 1997 SIMON, C. ; STILLE, W.: Antibiotika-Therapie in Klinik und Praxis.
9. Auflage.
Stuttgart New York : Schattauer, 1997



  Deutsche Version: Pharmakologie und Nebenwirkungen von Meropenem

Urology-Textbook.com – Choose the Ad-Free, Professional Resource

This website is designed for physicians and medical professionals. It presents diseases of the genital organs through detailed text and images. Some content may not be suitable for children or sensitive readers. Many illustrations are available exclusively to Steady members. Are you a physician and interested in supporting this project? Join Steady to unlock full access to all images and enjoy an ad-free experience. Try it free for 7 days—no obligation.