Neopem 150

Indications

Neopem Tablets are prescribed for the treatment of various infections, including:

• Lower Respiratory Tract Infections: Acute bronchitis, pneumonia, and pulmonary suppuration.
• Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Infections: Otitis externa, tympanitis, and sinusitis.
• Genitourinary Infections: Pyelonephritis, cystitis, prostatitis, and inflammation of the seminal glands.
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: Pharyngitis and tonsillitis.
• Skin and Skin Structure Infections: Pustular acne, folliculitis, impetigo, erysipelas, lymphangitis, abscesses, hidradenitis, sebaceous cyst infections, chronic pyoderma, and secondary infections of external or surgical wounds.
• Gynecological Infections: Adnexitis and inflammation of the Bartholin’s glands.

Pharmacology

Faropenem, a member of the penem class of antibiotics, exhibits bactericidal effects against a wide range of Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and anaerobic bacteria. It functions by binding to high molecular weight penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) on the bacterial cell wall, inhibiting cell wall synthesis and thereby preventing bacterial growth. Faropenem is stable against various beta-lactamases and shows strong binding to PBPs 2 and 1A in Escherichia coli.

Dosage & Administration

• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: 150 mg three times daily (t.i.d.), adjustable to 200 mg t.i.d.
• ENT Infections: 200 mg t.i.d., adjustable to 300 mg t.i.d.
• Lower Respiratory Tract Infections: 200 mg t.i.d., adjustable to 300 mg t.i.d.
• Skin and Skin Structure Infections: 150 mg t.i.d., adjustable to 200 mg t.i.d.
• Genitourinary Infections: 200 mg t.i.d., adjustable to 300 mg t.i.d.
• Gynecological Infections: 150 mg t.i.d., adjustable to 200 mg t.i.d.
• Always follow your doctor’s advice regarding medication use.

Interactions

• Imipenem and Cilastatin Sodium: May increase Neopem blood levels due to cilastatin’s interference with metabolism.
• Furosemide: Can enhance nephrotoxicity of Neopem as noted in animal studies.
• Sodium Valproate: Co-administration with carbapenem drugs can reduce blood levels of valproic acid and potentially trigger seizures.

Contraindications

Faropenem should not be used by individuals with known hypersensitivity to penem class drugs or other beta-lactams, or those with a history of anaphylactic reactions to these medications.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Pregnancy & Lactation

The safety of Faropenem during pregnancy is not established. It should be used in pregnant women only if the benefits outweigh the risks. Faropenem is present in breast milk; therefore, it should be used with caution in nursing mothers, considering the risk-benefit ratio.

Precautions & Warnings

• Use Neopem with caution in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to penicillin, cephalosporins, or carbapenems.
• Caution is advised for patients with a family history of atopy.
• Adjust dosages or increase dosing intervals in patients with renal impairment.
• Monitor geriatric patients carefully due to potential vitamin K deficiency and increased risk of bleeding.

Use in Special Populations

• Renal Impairment: Plasma levels of Neopem may be elevated; dosage adjustments are recommended.
• Geriatric Use: Elderly patients may experience prolonged drug half-life and increased plasma concentrations. Initiate treatment at 150 mg and monitor closely for adverse effects, including diarrhea and signs of vitamin K deficiency.

Overdose Effects

No specific antidote is available for Neopem overdose. In the event of an overdose, discontinue the medication and provide general supportive care until the drug is eliminated from the body.

Storage Conditions

Store Neopem at room temperature (20°C to 25°C) in its original packaging. Dispose of any expired or unused medication safely, and keep it out of reach of children. Protect from moisture.