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Therapeutic effectiveness of a generic versus original meropenem in serious infections

Somboon Tansuphasawadikul1, Songchai Simaroj, Somchai Chantarothorn

  • 1Buddhachinnaraj Hospital, Phitsanulok, Thailand.

Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand = Chotmaihet Thangphaet
|May 4, 2011
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Generic meropenem (Mapenem) demonstrated comparable effectiveness and safety to original meropenem (Meronem) in treating serious bacterial infections. Both formulations were well-tolerated, with rare adverse events leading to discontinuation.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology
  • Clinical Pharmacy

Background:

  • Meropenem is a critical antibiotic for severe infections.
  • Generic meropenem formulations are increasingly available in Thailand.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the clinical effectiveness and safety of generic meropenem (Mapenem) against original meropenem (Meronem).

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective cohort study in nine Thai hospitals.
  • Compared outcomes at 3, 7, and 14 days in patients treated with generic or original meropenem.
  • Included patients with serious bacterial infections.

Main Results:

  • No significant differences in effectiveness or safety between generic and original meropenem.
  • Common infections included respiratory tract and bloodstream infections.
  • Adverse drug effects leading to discontinuation were uncommon (<2%) in both groups.

Conclusions:

  • Generic meropenem is as effective as the original formulation for serious bacterial infections.
  • Both meropenem formulations are well-tolerated, even in patients with comorbidities.
  • Discontinuation due to adverse drug effects is rare for both generic and original meropenem.

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