Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Mechanism of Kemeng Fang's Inhibition of Podocyte Apoptosis in Rats with Membranous Nephropathy through the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway
Published on: August 23, 2024
Meropenem Induced Hypokalemia
T V Anuhya1, Raviraj Acharya2, Sharath MadhyasthaA2
1Postgraduate, Department of Pharmacology, KMC, Manipal University, Udupi, Karnataka, India.
Meropenam, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, can cause hypokalemia (low potassium). This rare adverse effect requires physician awareness, especially in patients with cellulitis or urinary tract infections.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Meropenam is a carbapenem antibiotic used for severe bacterial infections.
- Commonly reported side effects include gastrointestinal issues and hypersensitivity.
- Its potential to induce electrolyte disturbances is less documented.
Observation:
- Two hospitalized patients developed hypokalemia during meropenam treatment.
- Case 1: Meropenam prescribed for cellulitis.
- Case 2: Meropenam prescribed for urinary tract infection.
Findings:
- Meropenam administration was associated with the development of hypokalemia in both cases.
- Hypokalemia presents with a range of symptoms, from muscle weakness to respiratory failure.
- This highlights a potential, under-recognized adverse drug reaction.
Implications:
- Physicians should consider meropenam-induced hypokalemia in patients presenting with compatible symptoms.
- Monitoring potassium levels may be warranted in certain patient populations receiving meropenam.
- Increased awareness can prevent delayed diagnosis and management of this adverse effect.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Antihypertensive Drugs: Potassium-Sparing Diuretics
Acute Kidney Injury V: Interprofessional Care
Renal Failure: Dose Adjustments
Reduced renal clearance and elimination rate are common outcomes of renal impairment. These alterations lead to a prolonged elimination half-life and an altered apparent volume of distribution for drugs. As a result, dosage adjustments are typically necessary to maintain optimal drug levels in the body.
However, dosage adjustments...
Hemodialysis II: Procedure and Complications
Heart Failure Drugs: Diuretics
Peritoneal Dialysis II: Peritoneal Dialysis Systems and Complications

