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
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.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Culture and sensitivityClinical responseRenal functionCBCSeizure monitoring at high doses
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.
Find a vet near you →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.
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.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database