MEROPENEM,SULBACTAM
Background and Date of Approval
The U.S. FDA approved meropenem + sulbactam for bacterial infections in 1996. It is an antibiotic medicine belonging to the carbapenem class. This medicine works by preventing bacteria from forming their protective cell wall cover, which is essential for their survival.
Uses
Meropenem + Sulbactam is used to treat a range of bacterial infections. It is effective against conditions such as pneumonia, lung and bronchial infections in patients with cystic fibrosis, bacterial septicemia, complicated urinary tract infections, infections in the abdomen, post-childbirth infections, complicated skin, and soft tissue infections, and acute bacterial infection of the brain (meningitis). Unasyn works by targeting and combating these various infections, providing a comprehensive approach to bacterial illness management.
How is it administered?
Meropenem + Sulbactam will be administered to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. It is usually administered as an injection or infusion in the vein (intravenous). Your doctor will decide the dose, route of administration, and frequency based on your disease condition and other factors.
Side Effects
The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Meropenem are stomach pain, diarrhea, headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, skin rash, itching, and anemia. Some serious side effects also severe allergic reactions (severe itching, rash, swelling of face, lips, or tongue, trouble breathing or wheezing).
Warnings
Meropenem + Sulbactam should not be consumed if you are allergic to Meropenem, Sulbactam, other beta-lactam antibiotics, such as penicillins or cephalosporins. any of its ingredients in the medication. If you have experienced severe diarrhea after taking other antibiotics, it is important to inform your physician. Meropenem can reduce the serum concentrations of valproic acid, a medication used to treat seizures and certain mental health conditions. It can lead to decreased effectiveness of valproic acid. If you take valproic acid, your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dose or consider alternative treatments.
Precautions
Notify your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or think you may be pregnant or breastfeeding. Before starting treatment with Meropenem, it's necessary to inform your physician about any pre-existing medical conditions you have, such as epilepsy (seizures), kidney or liver problems, or if you are on a salt-controlled diet. During treatment, your doctor may recommend blood tests to monitor your blood cell count and kidney function. If you suspect pregnancy or plan to have a baby, inform your doctor about all the medications you have been taking recently, including herbal and supplements.
Word of Advice
Inform your doctor if you are taking valproic acid with Meropenem + Sulbactam. This combination may reduce the effectiveness of valproic acid. Your doctor may need to adjust your valproic acid dose or consider alternative treatments. If you experience signs of severe skin reactions, notify your doctor or nurse immediately for appropriate management. Inform your doctor if you follow a sodium-restricted diet, as this medicine contains sodium. Before beginning treatment, tell your doctor about all your existing medical conditions. Notify your doctor if you experience any serious side effects after taking Meropenem + Sulbactam. Contact your doctor for further information. Do not skip scheduled doses, as this may reduce the medicine's effectiveness and increase the risk of bacterial resistance developing. Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor.
References
Milpharm Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on January 2023] [ Accessed on 14th August 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5067.pdf AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP, US FDA, [Revised on Dec 2016] [ Accessed on 14th August 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/050706s037lbl.pdf Goodman & Gilman's, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Penicillins, and other beta-lactam antibiotics, 12th edition, 2011, 1500. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Betalactam antibiotics, 7th edition, 2013, 731.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to manage the side effects of Meropenem + Sulbactam?
To manage the side effects of Meropenem + Sulbactam, follow the prescribed dosage and report side effects promptly. Stay hydrated and monitor the liver and kidney function. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by following a balanced diet and attending follow-up appointments.
Can Meropenem + Sulbactam interact with other medications?
Yes, Meropenem + Sulbactam can interact with other medications and can cause undesirable side effects. Inform your doctor about any prescribed medications, over-the-counter medicines, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products you take or have taken before the treatment.
What are the side effects of Meropenem + Sulbactam?
Common side effects of Meropenem + Sulbactam include headache, stomach pain, being sick, increased numbers of platelets in the blood, and diarrhea. It is crucial to consult your doctor for any concerns or persistent side effects.
Can Meropenem + Sulbactam be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Information regarding the usage of Meropenem + Sulbactam during pregnancy and breastfeeding is unknown. So, it is recommended to get healthcare professionals' advice before consuming the medicine. The potential benefits and risks of the medicine should be carefully assessed.
How to store Meropenem + Sulbactam?
Ensure that Meropenem + Sulbactam is stored out of sight and reach of both pets and children. It should be stored below 25°C and should not be frozen.