Pharmacokinetics of meropenem 0.5 and 2 g every 8 hours as a 3-hour infusion.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the pharmacokinetics of meropenem administered as a 3-hour infusion.


METHODS
Randomized, crossover, open-label study.


METHODS
Clinical research center.


METHODS
Six healthy adult male volunteers.


METHODS
Each subject received meropenem 0.5 or 2 g every 8 hours as a 3-hour infusion for three doses and then crossed over to the other dosage regimen.


RESULTS
Pharmacokinetic parameters of both regimens were compared, and no significant differences between 0.5- and 2-g doses for the dose-independent parameters (half-life, clearance, and volume of distribution at steady state) were observed. The regimens displayed dose proportionality and were consistent with that of a traditional 0.5-hour infusion. The 3-hour infusion optimized the pharmacodynamic profile of meropenem and worked within the constraints of stability at room temperature stability.


CONCLUSIONS
Prolonging the percentage of time above the minimum inhibitory concentration is a feasible option with meropenem; however, further studies are needed to quantify how this increase translates to efficacy.
Dandekar
Prachi K
PK
Center for Anti-Infective Research and Development, Hartford Hospital, Hartford, Connecticut 06102, USA.
Maglio
Dana
D
Sutherland
Christina A
CA
Nightingale
Charles H
CH
Nicolau
David P
DP
D000328:Adult; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000097:blood / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous; D008297:Male; D000077731:Meropenem; D008875:Middle Aged; D013845:Thienamycins / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000097:blood / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*; D013997:Time Factors
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D013845:Thienamycins; D000077731:Meropenem