Clinical Challenge: Standard Versus Extended Meropenem Infusion in Children

The management of Gram-negative bacterial infections poses a significant challenge due to the emergence of highly effective antibiotic-resistant mechanisms, leading to treatment failures, particularly among hospitalized children. This patient population experiences elevated rates of both mortality and morbidity, and the available antibiotic options against these bacteria are limited. Carbapenems, such as meropenem, represent one of the choices for treatment. While meropenem is highly effective against Gram-negative bacteria, the prevalence of multidrug-resistant infections in hospitals has become a growing concern. In response to this challenge, exploring innovative strategies is crucial. One such strategy is the implementation of high-dose extended meropenem infusion treatment. Researchers propose that extended meropenem treatment may offer a viable solution to combat resistant bacteria. Despite a limited number of studies focusing on the effectiveness of this strategy in children, our comprehensive review of the literature revealed promising findings. Our examination specifically compared extended infusion with standard infusion approaches. The evidence suggests that extended infusion of meropenem provides more benefits compared to standard infusion methods. Researchers consistently reported positive results in their observations, with the exception noted in very low birth weight neonates and children with infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteria and Acinetobacter baumannii spp. In conclusion, extended meropenem infusion treatment emerges as a promising option for managing resistant infections. However, it is essential to underscore the need for further studies to robustly support the observed benefits of this treatment regimen.