Meropenem Trihydrate: Definition, Function, and Applications
Definition
Meropenem Trihydrate is a broad-spectrum, carbapenem-class antibiotic used for the treatment of serious bacterial infections. It is a hydrated form of meropenem, a β-lactam antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis. The trihydrate form ensures better solubility and stability for clinical use.
Function
Meropenem works by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in bacterial cell walls, disrupting cell wall synthesis, and leading to bacterial cell death. It is effective against a wide variety of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including those resistant to other antibiotics.
Applications
1. Hospital Use: Primarily used in hospital settings to treat serious infections such as pneumonia, meningitis, intra-abdominal infections, and sepsis.
2. Broad-Spectrum Antibiotic: Used for empiric therapy when the causative organism is unknown, given its effectiveness against a wide range of pathogens.
3. Surgical Prophylaxis: Administered before surgeries to prevent post-operative infections, particularly in high-risk surgeries.
4. Infectious Disease Management: Effective in treating infections in immunocompromised patients, including those undergoing chemotherapy or with chronic conditions like diabetes.
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