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Pharmaceuticals API List 4 >>
Meropenem >>
Consumer Information
CONSUMER INFORMATION
Meropenem
USES: Meropenem is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections.
This medication is known as a carbapenem-type antibiotic. It works by
stopping the growth of bacteria.
This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral
infections (e.g., common cold, flu). Unnecessary use or misuse of any
antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein,
usually every 8 hours or as directed by your doctor.
Read and learn all preparation and usage instructions supplied by the
manufacturer. Follow all instructions for proper mixing with the correct IV
fluids. Consult your pharmacist for details. Before using, check the product
visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use
the liquid.
Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a
constant level. Therefore, use this drug at evenly spaced intervals. The
dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
SIDE EFFECTS: Swelling, redness, pain, or soreness at the injection
site may occur. This medication may also infrequently cause upset stomach,
headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea. If any of these
effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she
has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.
Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side
effects occur: easy bruising/bleeding, hearing changes (e.g., decreased
hearing, ringing in the ears), mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion),
swollen tongue.
Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side
effects occur: seizures, unusual weakness.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek
immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic
reaction, including: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble
breathing.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using meropenem, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or to penicillins or cephalosporins; or if you
have any other allergies.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical
history, especially of: brain disorders (e.g., seizures, head injury,
tumor), kidney disease, stomach/intestinal diseases (e.g., colitis).
Kidney function declines as you grow older. This medication is removed by
the kidneys. Therefore, elderly people may be at greater risk for side
effects while using this drug.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your
usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Before mixing, store the dry powder at room temperature
between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
After mixing, store at room temperature or in the refrigerator at or below
41 degrees F (5 degrees C). Do not freeze mixed solutions.
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