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Meropenem Injection (MEROPENEM - INJECTION)

For treating bacterial infection.

Brand Name(s): Merrem

Generic Name: Meropenem

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

Carefully follow the instructions for preparing this medicine before injection.

The liquid should be clear and colorless.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Shake well to dissolve any visible particles. Do not use if particles do not disappear.

Speak with your nurse or pharmacist about how long the medicine can be stored safely at room temperature or in the refrigerator before it needs to be discarded.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Discard any remaining medicine after your dose is given.

Space doses evenly to keep a steady amount of medicine in the body.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to show you how to use this medicine correctly.

You or a family member can be trained to give this medicine at home.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep using this medicine for the full number of days that it is prescribed. Do not stop the medicine even if you start to feel better.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

This medicine has been associated with a rare but serious skin rash. If you notice any red, peeling or blistered skin, contact your doctor immediately.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Please tell your doctor if you have moderate to severe diarrhea while on this medicine. Do not treat the diarrhea with over-the-counter diarrhea medicine.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • constipation or diarrhea
  • feeling of heat or flushing
  • headaches
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • nausea and vomiting
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • bleeding or bruising
  • confusion
  • severe, watery or bloody diarrhea
  • ear problems (ringing in the ears, hearing loss)
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • seizures
  • skin tingling, burning or prickly feeling
  • severe stomach or bowel pain
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
  • sudden or unexplained weight gain

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.