Mepnam

Mepnam Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Mepnam is a brand name. Its generic name is Piperacillin (Na) + Tazobactam (Na).

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Piperacillin and Tazobactam

Piperacillin and Tazobactam (commonly known as Zosyn) is a combination antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. It consists of two main components, piperacillin which is a beta-lactam antibiotic, and tazobactam, a beta-lactamase inhibitor.

Uses of Piperacillin and Tazobactam

Piperacillin and Tazobactam is commonly used for treating a wide range of bacterial infections including: lower respiratory tract infections, skin and skin structure infections, intra-abdominal infections, and urinary tract infections.

Mechanism of Action

The combination of piperacillin and tazobactam works to prevent the functioning of enzymes called beta-lactamases produced by bacteria. By blocking these enzymes, piperacillin and tazobactam prevents the breakdown of piperacillin, allowing it to kill the bacteria.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

The effects of piperacillin and tazobactam will depend on the type of infection being treated. Generally, symptoms of an infection may begin to improve within the first few days of treatment. However, it is important to finish the entire course of medication prescribed by your doctor to ensure the infection is eradicated.

Absorption and Route of Elimination

Piperacillin and tazobactam are both rapidly and completely absorbed in the intestine after oral administration. The active metabolites of both piperacillin and tazobactam are primarily eliminated via the kidneys.

Dosage

The dosage of piperacillin and tazobactam is based on the type and severity of infection being treated, as well as the age and body weight of the patient. It is typically administered every eight hours, however, sometimes longer intervals can be used in certain cases. Dosage forms include tablets, as well as injections for intravenous or intramuscular use.

Administration

Piperacillin and tazobactam can be administered orally or intravenously. Oral dosage forms should be taken with food and just enough water or juice to swallow the tablet whole. Intravenously administered piperacillin and tazobactam should be given slowly and at body temperature.

Side Effects

Common side effects of piperacillin and tazobactam include: nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, and rash. Serious side effects may include severe allergic reaction, joint pain, and confusion. Tell your doctor if you experience any of these serious side effects.

Toxicity

Piperacillin and tazobactam are generally well tolerated. However, overdose should be avoided as it increases the risk of harmful side effects and adverse reactions. If you think you may have overdosed on piperacillin and tazobactam, seek immediate medical attention.

Precautions

  • Tell your doctor if you are allergic to piperacillin and tazobactam, or have any other allergies.
  • Inform your doctor if you have any illnesses or medical conditions that may interact with piperacillin and tazobactam, including kidney, liver, or heart diseases.
  • Avoid taking piperacillin and tazobactam if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Interactions

Piperacillin and tazobactam can interact with certain medications, including some antacids, oral contraceptives, and probenecid. Tell your doctor of any medications or supplements you are taking before taking piperacillin and tazobactam.

Disease Interactions

Patients with a history of kidney disease or diabetes should inform their doctor before taking piperacillin and tazobactam. This medication can interact with certain diseases and make them worse.

Drug Interactions

Piperacillin and tazobactam can interact with certain medications, including antacids, oral contraceptives, and probenecid. Tell your doctor of any medications or supplements you are taking before taking piperacillin and tazobactam.

Food Interactions

Piperacillin and tazobactam should be taken with meals or snacks. Avoid taking this medication with alcohol or grapefruit juice as this may increase the risk of side effects.

Pregnancy and Lactation Use

Piperacillin and tazobactam should not be used during pregnancy or lactation, as the effects of this medication on the mother and the developing baby are not known. Patients should consult their doctor before using this medication during pregnancy or lactation.

Acute Overdose

If you think you may have overdosed on piperacillin and tazobactam, seek immediate medical attention. Overdose may increase the risk of serious side effects. Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Contraindications

Piperacillin and tazobactam should not be used on patients with a known hypersensitivity to penicillins or cephalosporins. It is not recommended for patients with severe renal impairment or severe hepatic impairment. This medication should also not be used during pregnancy or lactation.

Use Directions

Piperacillin and tazobactam should only be taken as prescribed by your doctor or healthcare provider. Do not adjust the dosage or stop taking the medication without first consulting your doctor. Be sure to take all doses on time as indicated by your doctor.

Storage Conditions

Piperacillin and tazobactam should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Keep this medication in a tightly sealed container away from children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of piperacillin and tazobactam is approximately 0.38-0.41 L/kg.

Half-life

The elimination half-life of piperacillin and tazobactam is around 1.4-2 hours, and the elimination half-life of tazobactam is around 1-2 hours.

Clearance

The estimated clearance of piperacillin and tazobactam is approximately 0.5-1.1 L/hr.

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