Meronem Special Precautions

Patients who have a history of hypersensitivity to carbapenems, penicillins or other β-lactam antibiotics may also be hypersensitive to Meropenem (MERONEM) IV. As with all β-lactam antibiotics rare hypersensitivity reactions (serious and occasionally fatal) have been reported (see Adverse Reactions).
Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCAR), such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), erythema multiforme (EM) and acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) have been reported in patients receiving Meropenem (MERONEM) IV (see Adverse Reactions). If signs and symptoms suggestive of these reactions appear, meropenem should be withdrawn immediately and an alternative treatment should be considered.
As with other antibiotics, overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms may occur and repeated evaluation of each patient is necessary. Rarely, pseudomembranous colitis has been reported on Meropenem (MERONEM) IV as with virtually all antibiotics; therefore, its diagnosis should be considered in patients who develop diarrhoea in association with the use of Meropenem (MERONEM) IV.
The concomitant use of valproic acid/sodium valproate and Meropenem (MERONEM) IV is not recommended. Meropenem (MERONEM) IV may reduce serum valproic acid levels. Subtherapeutic levels may be reached in some patients (see Interactions).
Effects on ability to drive and use machines: No studies on the ability to drive and use machines have been performed. However when driving or operating machines, it should be taken into account that headache, paraesthesia, and convulsions have been reported for Meropenem (MERONEM) IV.
Use in patients with renal insufficiency: Refer to dosage recommendations for Meropenem (MERONEM) IV.
Use in patients with liver disease: Patients with pre-existing liver disorders should have liver function monitored during treatment with Meropenem (MERONEM) IV.
A positive direct or indirect Coombs test may develop.
Use in Children: Efficacy and tolerability in infants under 3 months old have not been established; therefore, Meropenem (MERONEM) IV is not recommended for use below this age.