Broadest-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotic that binds PBPs 2 and 3, inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. Stable against virtually all beta-lactamases including ESBLs and AmpC. Active against Pseudomonas (unlike ertapenem), most Enterobacteriaceae, and anaerobes.
At a glance
Class
Carbapenem Antibiotic
Storage
Powder at room temperature; reconstituted IV stable 4h at room temperature or 12h refrigerated; SQ solutions stable 3h
Dosing
Reserved for life-threatening MDR infections including Pseudomonas
Same stewardship principles
Safety
Culture and sensitivityClinical responseRenal functionCBCSeizure monitoring at high doses
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Meropenem?
Meropenem is a carbapenem antibiotic used in pets. Broadest-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotic that binds PBPs 2 and 3, inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. Stable against virtually all beta-lactamases including ESBLs and AmpC. Active against Pseudomonas (unlike ertapenem), most Enterobacteriaceae, and anaerobes.
›What is Meropenem used for in pets?
Meropenem is used in veterinary medicine for: Reserved for life-threatening MDR infections including Pseudomonas; Same stewardship principles.
›What is the Meropenem dose for dogs?
For dogs, Meropenem is typically dosed as follows — Reserved for life-threatening MDR infections including Pseudomonas: 8.5–12 mg/kg IV/SQ q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Meropenem dose for cats?
For cats, Meropenem is typically dosed as follows — Same stewardship principles: 10–12 mg/kg IV/SQ q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Meropenem need a prescription?
Yes. Meropenem is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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