Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 18, 2025

Microdialysis of Excitatory Amino Acids During EEG Recordings in Freely Moving Rats
Published on: November 8, 2018
Meropenem at recommended dose is a potential risk for seizure in hemodialysis patient
Abdullah Al-Hwiesh1, Amani Alhwiesh1, Ibrahiem Saeed Abdul-Rahman1
1Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology, King Fahd Hospital of the University, Alkhobar; Department of Internal Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
Abstract:
Dosage adjustment of meropenem is usually recommended in hemodialysis (HD) patients and about 30% of meropenem is cleared during regular HD sessions. However, most of the published trials excluded patients on regular HD. Little is known about the accurate dosage of meropenem needed to avoid central nervous system toxicity. Herein, we report a 65-year-old Saudi female, a known case of end-stage renal disease on regular HD, who was admitted because of pyelonephritis and started on meropenem in the recommended dose according to cultures and sensitivity. She developed tonic-clonic convulsions after the 7th dose. Seizures were completely aborted after discontinuation of the offending drug. The recommended dosage of 500 mg daily in HD patients may still be too high particularly in Asian patients owing to their relatively small body mass index.
Insights
Meropenem dosage adjustment is crucial for hemodialysis patients. A case report suggests the standard 500 mg daily dose may cause seizures, especially in patients with lower body mass index.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Nephrology
- Neurology
Background:
- Meropenem dosage adjustment is typically recommended for hemodialysis (HD) patients, with approximately 30% cleared during HD sessions.
- Limited data exists on optimal meropenem dosing to prevent central nervous system (CNS) toxicity in patients undergoing regular HD.
Observation:
- A 65-year-old Saudi female with end-stage renal disease on regular HD developed tonic-clonic convulsions after the 7th dose of meropenem.
- Seizures ceased upon discontinuation of meropenem, indicating a potential drug-induced adverse event.
Findings:
- The standard recommended meropenem dose of 500 mg daily may be excessive for hemodialysis patients.
- This dosage may increase the risk of CNS toxicity, particularly in Asian patients with lower body mass index.
Implications:
- Current meropenem dosing guidelines for hemodialysis patients may require revision.
- Further studies are needed to establish precise meropenem dosing protocols for hemodialysis patients, considering factors like body mass index and ethnicity.
- This case highlights the importance of vigilant monitoring for adverse neurological effects in patients receiving meropenem during hemodialysis.
Related Concept Videos
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
Antiepileptic Drugs: Potassium Channel Activators
Ezogabine has gained approval as an adjunctive treatment...
Hemodialysis III: Nursing Management
Effect of Hepatic Disease on Pharmacokinetics: Dose Adjustments Due to Hepatic Impairment
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion

