Merrem
(meropenem)
Treats bacterial infections.
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.
- 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
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
Merrem (meropenem) is an antibacterial. It kills bacteria by preventing them from making their own protective covering.
- Drug class: Infection
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (meropenem)
Used for
- Meningococcal infection
- Skin infection
- Appendicitis
Dosage forms
- Injection
What to expect when you take Merrem (meropenem) for Bacterial infection
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Starts to kick inFull effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- Diarrhea
- Severe diarrhea (C. difficile)
- Allergic reaction
- Seizure
- Confusion
Side effect rates for Merrem (meropenem)
- Diarrhea5%5%
- Nausea/vomiting4%4%
- Redness or swelling at injection site2%2%
- Headache2%2%
- Rash2%2%
- Blood stream infection2%2%
The placebo bar shows how common a side effect was for people taking a sugar pill instead of meropenem.
People taking meropenem felt side effect more
People taking meropenem felt side effect less
Risks and Warnings for Merrem (meropenem)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.- 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.