Merrem

(meropenem)

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Treats bacterial infections.

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Our bottom line

Merrem (meropenem) is an antibiotic that's usually only given in the hospital for serious infections. It can be given at home, but you'll have to be taught how to inject it correctly.

Quick facts about meropenem
  • Drug class: Infection
  • Rx status: Prescription only
  • Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (meropenem)

Upsides

  • Merrem (meropenem) is available as a generic.
  • It’s good at treating severe and complicated bacterial infections.
  • It kills bacteria that are resistant to other antibiotics.
  • Most people who take Merrem (meropenem) usually have few side effects.
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What to expect from meropenem, on one page

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Downsides

  • Merrem (meropenem) is only available as an injectable, so it's usually only given for serious infections.
  • If you have a history of seizures, or take certain seizure medications, Merrem (meropenem) can raise the risk of seizures.
  • Merrem (meropenem) may make you feel weak or confused.
  • When taking Merrem (meropenem), you might experience stiff muscles or abnormal muscle movements.
  • Like most antibacterials, it is common to have diarrhea when taking this medicine.
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What to expect from meropenem, on one page

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How it works

Merrem (meropenem) is an antibacterial. It kills bacteria by preventing them from making their own protective covering.

Quick facts about meropenem
  • Drug class: Infection
  • Rx status: Prescription only
  • Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (meropenem)

Used for

Dosage forms

  • Injection
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What to expect when you take Merrem (meropenem) for Bacterial infection

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  • First few hoursHours
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  • Effectiveness
  • Starts to kick in
    Full effects
  • First few hoursHours
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  • Possible side effects
  • Diarrhea
  • Severe diarrhea (C. difficile)
  • Allergic reaction
  • Seizure
  • Confusion
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Side effect rates for Merrem (meropenem)

  • Diarrhea
    5%5%
  • Nausea/vomiting
    4%4%
  • Redness or swelling at injection site
    2%2%
  • Headache
    2%2%
  • Rash
    2%2%
  • Blood stream infection
    2%2%
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Where we got our data »

The placebo bar shows how common a side effect was for people taking a sugar pill instead of meropenem.

Merrem (meropenem)
Placebo

People taking meropenem felt side effect more

People taking meropenem felt side effect less

No difference

Risks and Warnings for Merrem (meropenem)

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    • Higher risk if:
    • › History of allergic reaction to other antibiotics (penicillins, cephalosporins)
    • › History of multiple allergies

    Some people taking Merrem (meropenem) have had severe allergic reactions, possibly leading to death. However, this is very rare. It is important to tell your doctor if you have a history of allergic reactions to medications or foods before taking this medicine. If you get a rash, itchy skin, hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of your face or mouth while taking Merrem (meropenem), talk to your doctor or go to the emergency room right away.