The Basics
What is Meropenem?
Used to treat skin and abdominal infections caused by bacteria and meningitis.
Brand names for Meropenem
Merrem I.V.
How Meropenem is classified
Anti-Infective Agents, Carbapenems
Meropenem During Pregnancy
Meropenem pregnancy category
Category BNote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Meropenem while pregnant
N/A
Taking Meropenem While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Meropenem?
Although no information is available on the use of meropenem during breastfeeding, milk levels appear to be low and beta-lactams are generally not expected to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. Occasionally disruption of the infant’s gastrointestinal flora, resulting in diarrhea or thrush have been reported with beta-lactams, but these effects have not been adequately evaluated. Vaborbactam, which is available in the combination product Vabomere, has not been studied in nursing mothers, but the combination is expected to have similar concerns as with meropenem alone.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Although no information is available on the use of meropenem during breastfeeding, milk levels appear to be low and beta-lactams are generally not expected to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. Occasionally disruption of the infant’s gastrointestinal flora, resulting in diarrhea or thrush have been reported with beta-lactams, but these effects have not been adequately evaluated. Vaborbactam, which is available in the combination product Vabomere, has not been studied in nursing mothers, but the combination is expected to have similar concerns as with meropenem alone.
Possible effects of Meropenem on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Meropenem
None listed
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. Sauberan JB, Bradley JS, Blumer J, Stellwagen LM. Transmission of meropenem in breast milk. Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2012;31:832-4. PMID: 22544050
2. Festini F, Ciuti R, Repetto T et al. Safety of breast-feeding during an IV tobramycin course for infants of CF women. Pediatr Pulmonol Suppl. 2004;27:288-9. Abstract. DOI: doi:10.1002/ppul.20143
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
